In today's digital age, the way information is disseminated and consumed has drastically changed. Ellen McCarthy, the former assistant secretary of state for intelligence and research, shares her insights on the current media landscape and the importance of trust in information. In this episode, she shares her journey from the intelligence community to founding Trust in Media, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals to demand quality information.

Her experience in intelligence taught her the importance of providing decision advantage, a concept that parallels the role of journalists in delivering information that helps people make informed choices.

Ellen emphasizes that trust is crucial in leadership and decision-making. During her time in the intelligence community, the information provided was trusted because it was based on solid sources and verified techniques. However, this trust has diminished over the years, largely due to the overwhelming amount of data available today.

In a world where misinformation is more abundant, leaders must be able to trust the information they receive to make sound decisions. Ellen points out that the rise of AI and the proliferation of unreliable news sources have further complicated this issue, making it challenging for individuals to determine what is real and what is not.

After leaving government service, Ellen decided to pivot into the nonprofit sector by founding Trust in Media. This organization aims to empower individuals to navigate the complex information ecosystem by providing tools and resources to identify quality information. Ellen acknowledges that starting a nonprofit has been one of the hardest challenges she has faced, requiring her to adapt to a new environment and establish effective processes.

Rebuilding trust in media starts at the local level. She highlights the importance of local businesses and community leaders in fostering trust, as people are more likely to trust those they know personally. However, with the decline of local news sources, communities are becoming information deserts, which can lead to increased polarization and extremism. To combat this, Trust in Media is focusing on local initiatives to engage communities in discussions about information quality and transparency. Ellen envisions creating local information ecosystems that empower individuals to make informed decisions based on reliable data.

Quality information is essential for decision-making in all aspects of life, from personal choices to business strategies. Unfortunately, the current media landscape, driven by profit motives, often prioritizes sensationalism over substance, making it difficult for consumers to access the information they need.

Ellen McCarthy's insights into the current media landscape highlight the urgent need for trust and quality information in an age of misinformation. Through her work with Trust in Media, she aims to empower individuals to become informed consumers and navigate the complexities of the information ecosystem. As we move forward, fostering trust at the local level and prioritizing quality information will be essential for building a more informed and engaged society.

Reach out to her on LinkedIn or check out the Trust In Media website to see how you can get involved

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The Real-Life Hero Behind Sound of Freedom | Talk2Rami feat. Paul Hutchinson

Trafficking isn’t just in the movies—it’s closer than you think.

Paul Hutchinson, a former successful entrepreneur, shares his transformative journey from a life of luxury to fighting against child trafficking. Through his experiences and undercover missions, he highlights the urgent need for awareness and action against this global crisis.

In a world where child trafficking remains a dark reality, Paul Hutchinson stands out as a beacon of hope. As the primary investor and executive producer of the movie "Sound of Freedom," he has dedicated his life to rescuing children from the grips of trafficking. His journey from a successful entrepreneur to a humanitarian is both inspiring and eye-opening, shedding light on the urgent need for collective action against this global crisis.

His transformation began with a pivotal moment during an undercover mission in Colombia. He recalls sitting face-to-face with an 11-year-old girl, terrified and sold into trafficking. This encounter ignited a commitment within him to eradicate such evil from the world. He realized that continuing his life of luxury while children suffered was unacceptable.

Paul Hutchinson's journey into the world of child trafficking was not without danger. He undertook over 70 missions across 15 countries, rescuing more than 5,000 children. Each mission was fraught with peril, as he posed as a wealthy buyer to infiltrate trafficking rings. One of the most significant operations involved the rescue of 120 children in a single day, marking a historic achievement in the fight against trafficking.

One of the most pressing issues Paul addresses is the lack of awareness surrounding child trafficking. Many people believe it won't happen to them or their loved ones. However, he urges us to recognize that the danger is often closer than we think."The only way for humanity to heal is for all of us to take a look at our own weaknesses and admit them," he states, emphasizing the need for vulnerability in the healing process.

Change begins with individuals but requires a collective effort. Paul encourages everyone to take responsibility for their actions and to support organizations dedicated to fighting trafficking. His own organization, the Child Liberation Foundation, aims to raise awareness and provide resources for those looking to help.

Paul’s journey from a life of luxury to a mission of humanitarianism serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have in the fight against child trafficking. His story challenges us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can contribute to a brighter future for children everywhere.

As he says, "Until we pay attention to the man or woman in the mirror, we cannot change the world." It is a call to action for all of us to engage in the fight against this horrific crime and to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow up safe and free.

Get in touch with Paul on social media and order a copy of his new book "The Sound of Freedom"

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Entrepreneurship is often seen as a path to freedom and success, but it also comes with its own challenges and uncertainties.

Today, I sat down with my good friend John Dyess, CEO of Dyezz Surveillance & Security, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, and purpose.

Initially, John did not envision his business becoming a significant venture. He thought it would be a side project while he continued to work for someone else. However, over the course of 25 years, his business flourished, thanks to a loyal clientele and a dedicated team.

We dive into how the events of 9/11 shifted his path and led him to launch a security company built on trust, service, and treating customers like people, not numbers. He walks me through the early hustle—running ads in the Yellow Pages, scrambling to answer calls—and the mindset that took him from street-smart beginnings to scaling across Texas cities.

Empowering your team matters more than just a paycheck. What happens when burnout hits? Growing your business isn’t exclusively about revenue—it’s about creating jobs and making an impact.

For anyone building something meaningful, John’s story is a roadmap for how to persist, pivot, and put people first.

Get in touch with John and find out more about what Dyezz Surveillance Security is capable of:

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The Human Side of the News | Talk2Rami feat. Walt Maciborski

How do you stand out as a journalist when technology is changing the rules? In this episode, I sit down with Walt Maciborski—CBS Austin anchor, host of “Tech This Out,” and the newly named Texas Television Broadcaster of the Year—for a candid conversation about the power of storytelling, curiosity, and authenticity in journalism.

Walt’s journey is anything but ordinary. From being cut from his high school baseball team and facing his family’s bankruptcy, to discovering his passion for storytelling, Walt shares how early setbacks fueled his drive to chase big dreams. He opens up about the value of learning from failure, the importance of “leaning in” when life gets tough, and why he believes curiosity is the cornerstone of great reporting.

Throughout his career, Walt has interviewed everyone from everyday Austinites to influential leaders, always seeking the untold stories that connect us all. He shares how a single story about a police officer’s survival led to real-world change, and why he believes genuine curiosity not only enriches journalism, but also builds deep trust with an audience.

As technology and AI reshape the media landscape, Walt discusses what can—and can’t—be replaced by machines. For him, it’s the human connection, lived experience, and authentic voice that make storytelling matter. His show, “Tech This Out,” shines a light on Austin’s tech innovators and entrepreneurs, reminding us that every journey is worth sharing.

Walt’s advice for aspiring journalists? Don’t try to be someone else—embrace your story, your quirks, and your perspective. 

Whether you’re a journalist, a tech enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good comeback story, this episode is packed with wisdom and heart.

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Tech This Out: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLztFNpGmRDH3xiRlLcn02LrJHhoYaOtyZ

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COMMUNICATION Changes Everything | Talk2Rami feat. Renée Marino

What does it really take to chase your dreams and connect with the people who matter most? Today I’m speaking with Renée Marino—Broadway star, best-selling author, and master communicator—for a raw and inspiring conversation about finding your voice and using it.

Renée shares the real story behind her leap from the Broadway stage—where she starred as Mary Delgado in Jersey Boys—to building her own business. She shares the pivotal moment that changed everything: the day she spoke up and asked for a chance to audition for Clint Eastwood’s film adaptation of Jersey Boys. That bold move landed her the role and proved that one conversation can open doors you never imagined. Renée gets real about the fears and doubts that come with starting over, and why trusting your gut is sometimes the bravest—and most rewarding—thing you can do.

Renée shows us what it really means to connect with yourself before you can truly connect with others. She shares practical, down-to-earth advice from her seven-step connect method, including her favorite morning ritual for tuning in and getting honest about how you feel. Renée’s approach is all about embracing vulnerability, asking for what you want, and remembering that every opportunity starts with a single conversation—even if it feels scary.

If you’ve ever held back from going after what you want, or wondered if you have what it takes to make a change, this episode is for you.

#Communication #PersonalGrowth #Podcast #Motivation #Inspiration #SelfImprovement #Mindset #Success #Leadership #Authenticity

Want to experience Renée Marino live? This July, you can catch Renée Marino live at the ASPIRE Tour in San Antonio, TX, sharing the stage with powerhouse speakers like David Goggins, Codie Sanchez, and Daymond John. Don’t miss your chance to learn from Renée and other inspiring leaders—grab your tickets now at: https://register.aspiretour.com/anto-lp-page

If you’re ready to level up your communication and confidence, check out Renée Marino’s best-selling book, Becoming a Master Communicator. Written backstage during her run on Broadway—this book is packed with practical tools, like her seven-step connect method, to help you build authentic connections with yourself and others. Whether you’re an introvert or a seasoned performer, Renée’s insights will inspire you to speak up, trust your gut, and unlock new opportunities in every area of your life.

Order her book here: https://read.theconnectmethods.com/ordernow

Get in touch with Renée and follow her on social media:

Website: https://www.reneemarino.com/

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RELATIONSHIPS Over Revenue | Talk2Rami feat. Kate (Barnett) Kirschner

Kate (Barnett) Kirschner shares her journey from overcoming social anxiety to becoming a successful sales leader at Guesty. For her, the most important aspect of sales is building genuine relationships, embracing vulnerability, and adapting thoughtfully to the rise of AI in the industry. Her philosophy centers on truly caring for people, asking the right questions, and fostering a collaborative sales culture.

In the world of sales, the traditional approach often feels transactional, focusing solely on closing deals rather than fostering genuine connections.

Successful sales are rooted in relationships. Hiring individuals who are natural relationship builders is crucial. "If you get a good relationship builder, if you get somebody who cares about human beings, you can teach them a product, and they can sell it.”

Kate’s experience in building relationships serves as a reminder that success is not just about closing deals—but about fostering genuine connections. By prioritizing empathy, curiosity, and collaboration, sales professionals can create a culture that not only drives results but also enriches the lives of those they serve.

In a world where technology is ever-present, the human element cannot be replaced, and those who embrace this philosophy will undoubtedly thrive in their careers.

Get in touch with Kate on LinkedIn and check out Guesty

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

Guesty automates and streamlines every aspect of your growing & changing rental business. Their end-to-end management platform is integrated with the world’s top online travel agencies, as well as third-party solutions that help you succeed—from dynamic pricing tools to noise monitoring technology to key-less entry systems.

With Guesty, users can utilize the company’s guest-centric tools including: Unified Inbox, Automation Tools, 24/7 Guest Communication Services, Payment Processing and more.  

To learn more about the many ways Guesty can help your business, visit https://guesty.com

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Richard Gordon, founder of Quantum Touch, discusses the transformative power of energy healing, its potential to reverse aging, and the innate abilities within all humans to harness energy for self-healing and helping others.

His work revolves around the fascinating concept of energy healing, which he believes can not only heal individuals but also enhance their overall well-being. In this episode, we will explore the origins of Quantum Touch, its principles, and the profound implications it has for human health and potential.

Richard's journey into the realm of energy healing began when he faced significant health challenges at a young age. After receiving unsatisfactory advice from a conventional doctor, he sought alternative solutions and enrolled in a holistic health school. It was there that he discovered energy healing, which would become the cornerstone of his life's work.

His first encounter with energy healing was during a workshop led by Robert Rasmusen, who demonstrated remarkable healing abilities. Skeptical at first, he witnessed a dramatic transformation in a participant with severe scoliosis, which ignited his passion for this field. He apprenticed under Rasmusen and eventually evolved the techniques he learned, leading to the establishment of Quantum Touch.

Richard encourages everyone to recognize their potential and the power of energy within themselves. He believes that by learning to harness this energy, individuals can not only heal themselves but also contribute positively to the lives of others.

✨ Ready to explore the power of energy healing for yourself?

Visit QuantumTouch.com to dive deeper into Richard Gordon’s groundbreaking work.

Explore practical techniques, find workshops, and discover how you can activate your innate healing abilities today.

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Whether you're curious, skeptical, or already on the journey — this is your sign to start unlocking the energy within you.

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Opportunities can often be misleading, understanding your purpose is crucial. Kelani Blackwell, a prominent figure in the business landscape, emphasizes that not all money is good money and not all opportunities are beneficial. She believes that without a strong foundation and a clear purpose, one can easily be distracted by seemingly lucrative offers.

It wasn't until her late twenties that Kelani began to understand her purpose. She realized that hard work alone wasn't enough—it was essential to align her efforts with her true calling. This realization came after years of navigating various challenges, including identity struggles and the pressures of fitting in.

Kelani's journey into entrepreneurship was not a straight path. Her determination to go against the grain and not take "no" for an answer became her strength.

Kelani’s core belief is that relationships are fundamental to success. She encourages individuals to build connections based on mutual value rather than transactional interactions. Kelani advocates for leading with value, making deposits in relationships before expecting withdrawals. This approach fosters trust and collaboration.

In her community, Women in Real Estate (W.I.R.E.), Kelani has created a platform that supports women in navigating the complexities of the real estate industry. The community focuses on mentorship, accountability, and providing resources to help women succeed.

In a world filled with distractions and challenges, finding your tribe and operating in your purpose can lead to fulfillment and success. Kelani’s story serves as an inspiration for all aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding us that with hard work, authenticity, and the right support, anything is possible.

Get in touch with Kelani and follow her on social media 📲

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

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Bali Singh shares his inspiring journey from washing dishes as an immigrant in the U.S. to becoming a successful restaurant owner. Today we are discussing the challenges he faced, the importance of teamwork, customer service, and adapting to change in the restaurant industry.

Bali's entry into the restaurant industry was not a straightforward path. He joined a restaurant called Clay Pit in Austin, Texas, as a partner after it had already been established. His journey in the restaurant business was marked by ambition and a desire to excel beyond just being a cook. He wanted to be involved in every aspect of the restaurant, from cooking to management.

Running a restaurant is not a one-person job. It requires a team effort, and he believes in earning the respect of his staff by working alongside them. "To earn respect in your kitchen, you have to be one of them. You have to show them that whatever you're doing, I can do it along with you." This hands-on approach not only builds trust but also fosters a strong team dynamic.

There is nothing more important than customer service in the restaurant business. Great food can be overshadowed by poor service. "If the food is very good but the customer service is bad, I'll just make it to go.”

Bali’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those in the restaurant industry. As he continues to innovate and adapt, Bali remains passionate about his work and committed to providing exceptional dining experiences at Clay Pit and beyond.

If you're ever in Austin, Texas, be sure to visit Clay Pit for a taste of high-end Indian cuisine that reflects Bali's dedication and love for food.

https://www.claypit.com/

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In today's fast-paced world, the journey of entrepreneurship can be both exhilarating and daunting. Shanaz Hemmati, a successful female entrepreneur and co-founder of ZenBusiness, shares her experiences and insights on navigating this challenging path. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, learning, and passion in achieving one's goals.

Shanaz believes that failure should not be viewed as a setback but rather as a valuable learning opportunity. She encourages entrepreneurs to ask themselves what they can learn from their experiences, regardless of the outcome. This mindset allows individuals to move forward without being weighed down by the fear of failure.

For Shanaz, passion is the driving force behind her work. She defines passion as something that energizes and motivates you to wake up each day excited about what you do. However, that passion alone is not enough—it must be coupled with action. Entrepreneurs must take concrete steps to turn their ideas into reality.

At ZenBusiness, she has fostered an environment where employees feel valued and empowered to share their ideas. This collaborative atmosphere not only enhances productivity but also encourages innovation and growth.

With over 45% of ZenBusiness employees being female, Shanaz emphasizes the importance of diversity in the workplace. She believes that a diverse team brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas, ultimately leading to better decision-making and problem-solving.

Building strong relationships is crucial in the entrepreneurial journey. Open communication and genuine connections with team members fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration. Leadership is about supporting others and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.