In this episode, I sit down with Mike and Kass Lazerow—serial entrepreneurs, business partners, and husband-and-wife duo—to discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, and working together as a couple. We dive into their journey from launching Golf.com to selling Buddy Media to Salesforce for $745M. Mike shares his instinctive, visionary approach to business, while Kass offers sharp operational expertise, revealing the balance that has fueled their success. We talk about the myths of entrepreneurship, the importance of embracing failure, and how firing people with kindness can change lives. The conversation takes a candid turn as we explore what it means to navigate business, marriage, and parenting while staying aligned. If you've ever struggled with leadership, scaling a business, or balancing work and relationships, this episode is full of valuable insights and honest reflections.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(05:10) - Mike & Kass’s journey from Golf.com to Buddy Media

(11:45) - The biggest myths about entrepreneurship

(18:30) - Learning to embrace fear and uncertainty in business

(25:55) - How Kass approaches firing people with kindness

(32:40) - Navigating marriage and business: The challenges and rewards

(39:15) - The importance of trusting your gut vs. making data-driven decisions

(45:50) - How social media has changed entrepreneurship

(52:30) - The right way to pivot when a business idea isn’t working

(59:05) - Leadership lessons: Why transparency matters

(1:05:40) - The mental load of running a business and parenting

(1:12:15) - Shoveling Sh*t: A sneak peek at Mike & Kass’s new book

Check out today's guests, Mike and Kass Lazerow:

Mike and Kass' Website: https://www.kassandmike.com/

Mike and Kass' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kassandmike/

Mike and Kass' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassandmike/

Shoveling Sh*t Website: https://shovelingshit.com/

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this engaging crossover episode, I join forces with Eric Siu’s Leveling Up podcast for a thought-provoking conversation. Together, we explore the art and strategy behind building personal brands and creating authentic connections in the digital age. We dive into the intricacies of running masterminds, including their pros, cons, and the lessons learned.

Eric and I discuss the value of storytelling, self-awareness, and vulnerability in establishing a meaningful online presence. Whether you're considering launching a mastermind, enhancing your personal brand, or looking to deepen your connections with your audience, this episode delivers a mix of actionable advice and honest reflections.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction and episode setup

(02:00) - Building authentic personal brands

(06:30) - Vulnerability and Storytelling online

(11:15) - The power of masterminds

(16:50) - Structuring masterminds effectively

(21:30) - Balancing personal growth with branding

(27:00) - Social media strategies and engagement tips

(35:20) - Long-term brand-building insights

(42:00) - Overcoming criticism and self-doubt

(48:15) - Closing thoughts on authenticity

Check out today's guest, Eric Siu:

Eric's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericosiu

Eric's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericosiu

Single Grain's Website: https://www.singlegrain.com/

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this episode, I sit down with Andrea Sampson, a seasoned strategist turned storytelling coach, to explore the power of storytelling in branding, leadership, and public speaking. Andrea shares her journey from the high-pressure world of advertising to coaching TED speakers and thought leaders. We discuss the essence of compelling storytelling, how personal experiences shape narratives, and how anyone can harness their unique voice to captivate an audience. Andrea also breaks down the psychology behind storytelling, the role of emotional connection, and why differentiation is key in personal branding. Whether you're a creative professional, a speaker, or an entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with insights to help you refine your messaging and make a lasting impact.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(00:39) - Chris Do on storytelling & self-consciousness

(01:11) - Andrea’s career shift from advertising to TED coaching

(05:17) - What does a strategist do in advertising?

(13:11) - Inside an advertising pitch: E-Trade campaign

(19:50) - What clients look for in an ad agency

(25:11) - Andrea’s soul-searching moment at 50

(31:44) - Discovering TEDx and becoming a speaker coach

(36:12) - Coaching scientists & translating complex ideas

(44:06) - The science of storytelling & emotional engagement

(50:01) - Personal branding: Awareness, authority, and differentiation

(57:36) - How storytelling makes ideas memorable

(1:00:23) - What stories people should tell more

Check out today's guest, Andrea Sampson:

Andrea's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acsampson

Andrea's Website: https://talkboutique.com/

Andrea's Instagram: https://instagram.com/thisisandreasampson

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this solo episode, Chris Do examines the dynamics of leadership and followership, exploring how clearly defined roles can create healthier relationships in teams, families, and businesses. Chris shares his perspective on when to lead, when to follow, and why trying to merge the two often results in frustration.

Using relatable stories, he explains how leaders can empower others by giving them full autonomy while maintaining respect for the roles people play. This thought-provoking episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate complex relationships with more clarity and empathy.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to solo episodes

(00:38) Misconceptions about leadership and listening

(01:17) The balance between leading and following

(02:23) The dangers of blurred roles

(03:00) The black sheep’s role in families and teams

(04:50) Institutional knowledge and preserving history

(05:34) Trusting the leader and letting go

(06:50) The frustration of mixed instructions

(07:22) Summary: Defining and sharing roles

Check out The Futur:

➤ Website | Courses | LinkedIn | Podcasts

➤ Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok | YouTube

Check out Chris Do:

➤ Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

➤ TikTok | Threads | Zaap | Clubhouse | Behance

In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Encina for an intimate look at his inspiring transition from Creative Director at renowned design studio Blind to successful YouTube entrepreneur. Following the viral success of his home office redesign video that catalyzed his independent career, Matthew shares the strategic thinking and creative courage behind his pivot.

We dive deep into his evolution as a product designer, exploring how he artfully balances aesthetics with practical functionality in everything from workspace design to digital products. You'll hear Matthew's unique insights on maintaining creative momentum while working solo, including his morning fitness routine that fuels his productivity. We also geek out over his passion for custom mechanical keyboards and explore how this hobby influences his design philosophy.

Whether you're a creative professional considering the leap to entrepreneurship or simply fascinated by the intersection of design and business, Matthew's candid discussion of risk-taking and personal growth offers valuable lessons for navigating your own creative journey.

From sophisticated workspace solutions to cultivating sustainable creative practices, this conversation delivers actionable insights for anyone looking to elevate their creative game.

Timestamps:

(01:22) - Matthew Encina's Journey: From Student to Creative Director

(02:33) - Venturing into Content Creation

(03:10) - The Big Decision: Leaving The Futur

(06:07) - Success on YouTube: The First Viral Video

(11:58) - Balancing Content Creation and Product Design

(15:11) - Financial Success and Personal Freedom

(17:25) - The Transition to Independent Projects

(24:44) - Collaborating with Grovemade

(29:00) - Reflecting on Gratitude and Success

(30:16) - Diving into Mechanical Keyboards

(31:53) - The Joy of Custom Keyboards

(34:37) - Business Structure and Partnerships

(39:15) - Lessons Learned and Future Plans

(48:32) - Personal Insights

Check out today's guest, Matthew Encina:

Matthews Website: https://matthewencina.com/

Matthews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewencina/

Mod Musings Website:https://www.modmusings.com/

Mod Musings Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mod.musings/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/matthewencina

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this episode, I sit down with Caleb Ralston, a creative strategist who’s had an incredible journey in the digital space. From shooting powerlifting videos as a teenager to working alongside Gary Vaynerchuk and later leading the media team for Alex and Leila Hormozi, Caleb has seen it all. We dive into his experiences managing content at scale, what it was really like working behind the scenes with Gary Vee, and how he built and led a powerhouse content team for the Hormozis. Caleb also shares why he decided to step away and start his own venture, offering insights into building a personal brand and the future of content creation. If you want to learn how to grow a media empire, scale a creative team, and transition from creator to leader, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(02:16) - How Sean Cannell & Gary Vee inspired Caleb

(06:18) - From church videography to fitness content

(12:52) - Working with top bodybuilders & cold-pitching gigs

(18:35) - Joining Team Gary Vaynerchuk as a videographer

(24:15) - Managing chaos: Filming, logistics, & real-time content

(32:02) - The challenge of scaling Gary Vee’s content

(39:00) - Why Alex & Layla Hormozi reached out to Caleb

(46:22) - Building Mosey Media & growing a team from scratch

(54:10) - Why Caleb left to start his own business

(1:05:30) - The future of content & personal branding

(1:20:15) - Advice for aspiring content creators

Check out today's guest, Caleb Ralston:

Caleb's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebralston/

Caleb's Website: https://www.calebralston.com/

Caleb's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebralston

Caleb's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CalebRalston

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this episode, I sit down with communication coach and mindfulness expert Melanie Whitney to explore the power of emotional regulation, mindful communication, and overcoming core wounds. Melanie shares her personal journey, from struggling to find direction after graduate school to discovering her passion for helping others build healthier relationships with themselves and others.

We dive into practical strategies for self-awareness, recognizing emotional patterns, and understanding how past experiences shape our present reactions. We also break down her P.E.A.C.E. framework — a tool to help individuals identify and heal from core wounds like unworthiness, rejection, and grief.

This conversation is packed with insights on how to show up authentically, communicate with intention, and lead a more empowered life.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(02:45) - Melanie’s backstory and education journey

(08:30) - Emotional regulation and communication

(16:00) - Patterns and ego in communication

(23:00) - Emotions as records of the past

(31:45) - Identifying core wounds

(40:30) - The P.E.A.C.E. framework explained

(50:15) - The power of self-awareness

(58:00) - How attachment affects growth

(01:06:30) - Practical steps for emotional regulation

(01:15:15) - Empowerment through self-compassion

(01:25:00) - Final reflections and closing thoughts

Check out today's guest, Melanie Whitney:

Melanie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniewhitney_

Melanie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-whitney/

Melanie's Website: https://www.mindlesstomindful.com/

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this engaging episode, Chris Do connects with Adrian Per, a talented filmmaker, creative director, and rising social media influencer, to unpack his journey of perseverance and self-discovery. Adrian reflects on his early creative spark—dissecting music and visualizing scenes as a child—and how that passion blossomed into a career in filmmaking.

He shares the struggles of growing up as the son of immigrant parents, dealing with societal and familial expectations, and navigating financial challenges. The conversation delves into pivotal moments, including Adrian’s move to Los Angeles, his transition from music videos to branded content, and the lessons he learned about humility, collaboration, and self-expression.

Adrian also provides a fascinating glimpse into his creative process, from scripting to self-shooting, and discusses the importance of authenticity in both personal style and professional projects. With humor, vulnerability, and practical insights, this episode is an invaluable resource for creatives and entrepreneurs aiming to make their mark.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(00:42) - Meeting Adrian Per

(01:17) - Adrian’s creative journey

(07:15) - Music videos and early inspirations

(14:00) - Struggles and lessons from immigrant parents

(22:00) - Adrian’s move to Los Angeles

(28:23) - Transition to content creation

(34:10) - Networking and social skills

(41:00) - Adrian’s creative process and filming techniques

(52:00) - Evolution of personal style

(55:45) - Reflection on Instagram recognition

If you want to see the video, please check it out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KvUO_1lrNcQ

Check out today's guest, Adrian Per:

Adrian's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omgadrian/

Adrian's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@omgadrian

Adrian's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/adrianper

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this insightful episode of The Futur, Chris Do welcomes Michelle J. Raymond, a LinkedIn strategist and B2B specialist, to discuss maximizing LinkedIn for business growth. Michelle shares her journey from sales in the chemical industry to becoming a LinkedIn expert, emphasizing the platform's potential for fostering authentic connections and community building.

Together, they explore strategies for overcoming hesitations businesses have about LinkedIn, the importance of content relevance, and innovative uses of company pages for advocacy. From tactical advice like leveraging the search bar to long-term brand-building strategies, Michelle offers actionable insights for businesses and individuals aiming to grow their influence and client base on LinkedIn.

This conversation is a must-listen for professionals seeking to stand out in an increasingly crowded digital space.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction to Michelle J. Raymond

(00:57) - Michelle’s professional background

(02:53) - Discovering LinkedIn’s potential

(06:00) - Shifting from secrecy to transparency in business

(10:00) - Addressing challenges in converting LinkedIn followers

(14:56) - Defining and targeting your dream client

(25:00) - Leveraging company pages strategically

(37:00) - Overcoming content creation fears

(50:00) - The energy behind content creation

(58:45) - Trends and predictions for 2025

Check out today's guest, Michelle J. Raymond:

Michelle's LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/michellejraymond

Michelle's Website: https://b2bgrowthco.com/

Michelle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/good_trading_co/?hl=es

Check out The Futur:

Website: https://www.thefutur.com/

Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shop

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/

Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/

Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishere

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishere

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishere

Check out Chris Do:

Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

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

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesign

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/

Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdo

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdo

Threads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdo

Zaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdo

Clubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdo

Behance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo

In this quick yet impactful solo episode, Chris Do outlines the five biggest mistakes creatives make that risk losing their clients. From the pitfalls of poor responsiveness and inflexibility to the dangers of unclear processes and taking client relationships for granted, Chris offers practical advice on how to safeguard and nurture these valuable connections.

He emphasizes the importance of keeping clients informed, creating inclusive communication, and consistently engaging in dialogue to ensure alignment and trust. This episode provides essential insights for creatives aiming to build lasting client relationships and avoid common missteps.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction to solo episode

(00:38) Importance of client retention

(01:00) Mistake 1: Lack of responsiveness

(01:51) Mistake 2: Inflexibility and resistance to input

(03:00) Mistake 3: Unclear process or next steps

(04:13) Mistake 4: Expecting clients to speak “creative language”

(05:39) Mistake 5: Taking relationships for granted

Check out The Futur:

➤ Website | Courses | LinkedIn | Podcasts

➤ Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok | YouTube

Check out Chris Do:

➤ Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

➤ TikTok | Threads | Zaap | Clubhouse | Behance