In this episode of The Get Shit Done Experience, host John Morris sits down in the studio with Rob Marshall, the founder and owner of Universal Marketing. Rob shares his incredible 30-year journey, from starting a business in his basement just after getting married to building a lasting legacy in the promotional products industry. He opens up about overcoming profound personal tragedy and how those experiences shaped his core values of family, faith, and resilience. This is a powerful conversation about leading with purpose over product, the superpower of authenticity, and how embracing uncomfortable situations is the key to personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways

• Adversity is Fuel: The most challenging moments in life can become the bedrock of your strength. Facing adversity builds the resilience needed to grow a business, lead a family, and inspire others.
• Purpose Before Product: Lasting success is driven by purpose and principle, not just transactions. When you focus on building genuine relationships and serving others, the business becomes a vehicle for a greater mission.
• Authenticity Attracts Opportunity: Sharing your true story—the triumphs and the traumas—is a powerful magnet. It fosters genuine connections and brings people into your life who want to be part of your future story.
• Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable: True growth happens just outside your comfort zone. Intentionally putting yourself in new and challenging situations, whether joining a prayer group or starting a podcast, is essential for development.
• Urgency is a Core Value: In a commoditized industry, the customer experience is everything. A relentless sense of urgency and attention to detail are what separate great brands from the rest and keep customers coming back.

Quotes

• "Product is very important, but they're more driven by purpose and principle."
• "The best thing that ever happened to me was her. She's the most kind, caring, loving, unbelievable mother that I could ever imagine."
• "Put yourself in an uncomfortable position to get comfortable. Again."
• "It's not how good you are when you're good. It's how good you are when you're bad."
• "Tomorrow is not promised. That's the reality of it all."
• "I have this saying that the more commoditized your brand or business is... the more humanized your content needs to be."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/
Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

TIMECODES

00:00 Introduction and Episode Highlights
01:20 Welcome and Introducing Rob Marshall
02:15 The Power of Authentic Connection on LinkedIn
05:20 Rob’s Journey: College Sports, Finding His Wife, and Early Career
11:30 Sponsor Spotlight: Total Technology Solutions Group (TTSG)
12:45 Overcoming Profound Adversity and Family Tragedy
22:15 Starting Universal Marketing from an Unfinished Basement
32:00 Sponsor Spotlight: GSD Technologies
33:10 Navigating Business Growth and Surviving a Building Fire
41:00 The Pivotal Decision to Move for Family and Finding True Success
51:45 Building a Culture of Urgency and Family
59:00 Sponsor Spotlight: 20Twenty Design
1:00:15 Final Thoughts: The Power of Getting Uncomfortable

The Get Shit Done Experience is live at Bella Napoli for a buzzing Level Up Social Club networking event. Host John Morris connects with the club's founder, David Ko, along with a dynamic lineup of entrepreneurs and business leaders making their mark in the Chicago suburbs. The evening is a testament to the power of genuine connection and compounding commitment. Guests share powerful stories about building a brand "one bite at a time," leveraging a competitive mindset learned from sports, and the incredible transformation that comes from living an authentic, passion-driven life. It's an energetic look at how top performers get shit done by fostering community and leading with gratitude.

Key Takeaways

• Community Over Transactions: The foundation of successful networking is putting the person first and the profession second. Focus on building genuine relationships and creating good vibes, and the business will naturally follow.
• Build Your Brand One Bite at a Time: Lasting success isn't built overnight. It's the result of compounding commitment—showing up consistently, creating content, and making one genuine connection at a time to build unstoppable momentum.
• Authenticity is a Superpower: Living your truth and finding work you're passionate about is not a weakness, but a source of immense energy and drive. It allows you to connect with others on a deeper level and build a life you're proud of.
• Embrace the Competitor's Mindset: Lessons from sports—like resilience, understanding that failure is part of the game, and maintaining a competitive drive—are directly transferable to the corporate world and essential for getting shit done.
• Your Space is Your Vibe: An office is more than just a place to work; it's an investment in your culture, brand, and employee well-being. Creating an environment where people can thrive boosts productivity and makes a powerful statement to clients.

Quotes

• "Level Up has always been about the person first and the profession second. It's all about the vibes, not about the highs."
• "You know how you build a brand? One event at a time. One meeting at a time. One content piece at a time. One call at a time."
• "The most powerful force in the world is compounding commitment."
• "I had a hard time understanding that in the sports world, being perfect from a baseball side is impossible. It's a failure sport."
• "...treat people how they want to be treated. Meet 'em where they're at."
• "Studies show that 4% of employees are actually thriving in a workplace. So we have just started what we call... Project Thrive."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/
Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

TIMECODES

00:00 Introduction and Episode Highlights
01:05 Welcome to the Get Shit Done Experience
01:35 Live from the Level Up Social Club Networking Event
02:40 Interview with David Ko: The Power of Community and Gratitude
09:05 Sponsor Spotlight: Total Technology Solutions Group (TTSG)
10:30 Interview with Chris Welock: The Athlete's Mindset in Business
21:50 Sponsor Spotlight: GSD Technologies
23:05 Interview with Dave Savio: Living Beyond Default and Compounding Commitment
37:40 Interview with Marianne Bial: Security, Service, and Making an Impact
40:20 Interview with Colleen Doyle: The ROI of a Thriving Workspace
48:15 Sponsor Spotlight: 2020 Design
49:40 Final Thoughts and Thank You

The Get Shit Done Experience welcomes Brian Franz, a dynamic leader from the family-owned and operated commercial print company, Envision3. Brian details his 12-year journey within the company, sharing how he helps a seemingly commoditized industry thrive through authentic human connection and a service-first mindset. He dives into the importance of building a brand on integrity, the power of a disciplined daily strategy, and how his faith drives his passion for helping others succeed. This episode is a masterclass in modern sales, leadership, and finding profound purpose in your work.

Key Takeaways

• Humanize Your Commodity: In a world of similar products and services, your greatest differentiator is you. The more commoditized your business, the more humanized your content and connections need to be.
• Mistakes Are Your Greatest Marketing: Your brand’s strength isn’t measured by perfection, but by how you respond to failure. Owning mistakes with empathy and accountability is the fastest way to build unbreakable customer loyalty.
• Purpose Fuels Passion: Aligning your daily work with your core values and a desire to serve others is the true secret to a fulfilling career. When you genuinely want to help people, business becomes a mission, not just a transaction.
• Win the Day with a Simple Strategy: Success is built on daily, repeatable actions. Implement a simple, non-negotiable framework (like the 10-5-3-1 strategy) to ensure you are always making progress on the things that matter most.
• There is No "Staying Still": In business, faith, and life, you are always moving in one direction or the other. You are either progressing and growing closer to your goals or drifting further away—there is no neutral.
• Sell What You Love: Your enthusiasm is contagious. The easiest way to transfer energy and win business is to pursue brands you are personally passionate about, turning you from a salesperson into a true brand advocate.

Quotes

• "The more commoditized your business is, the more humanized your content needs to be."
• "It's really how you handle those mistakes. So you have to be there, you have to empathize with them."
• "I wanna help people is what I really do. You know, I wanted to do something with my career that was impactful."
• "You are either going closer to Jesus or further from him. That hit so hard. Because it's true... there's no, 'oh, I just stay still.'"
• "The difference between trying and training is trying will fail. Trying is not good enough."
• "People do business with people they like. That hasn't changed... it won't change."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

TIMECODES

00:00 Introduction and Episode Highlights
01:05 Welcoming Brian Franz to the Show
02:40 Why You Must Humanize a Commodity Business
04:25 The Story of Envision3
08:15 The Highs and Lows of a Family Business
12:35 Navigating a Relationship-Driven, Commoditized Industry
17:15 How Handling Mistakes Defines Your Brand
25:40 Creating the "Light Bulb Moment" for Customers
33:20 The "Why" Behind Helping: Leading with Service and Faith
41:30 The Common Thread: Stewardship, Purpose, and Success
57:30 Why Sales is a Branding and Marketing Game
1:08:15 Building a Modern Sales Team: The 10-5-3-1 Strategy
1:23:45 Mind, Body, and Soul: The Importance of Fitness and Discipline
1:40:15 Brian's Three Pillars for Getting Shit Done
1:51:30 Final Words and How to Connect

The Get Shit Done Experience is back in the studio with Michelle Sarwas, the inspiring founder of the award-winning Bark Avenue Day Camp. Michelle shares her incredible journey from a high-level international financial analyst in the corporate world to a purpose-driven entrepreneur. Spurred by personal tragedy and a life-changing master's degree project, she took a leap of faith, trading boardrooms and global deals for the science and love of canine care. For nearly two decades, Michelle has built a business on grit, resilience, and an unwavering mission to do what’s best for the dogs, proving that the greatest successes often come from the boldest decisions.

Key Takeaways

• Trust Your Gut's Alignment: The most powerful decisions are made when your head, heart, and gut all line up. When you feel that alignment, it’s time to stop analyzing and start moving forward with confidence.
• Tragedy Can Be a Catalyst: Profound loss can force a reevaluation of what truly matters. For Michelle, personal hardship became the driving force to leave a secure career and build a life based on passion and purpose.
• Leadership is Adaptability: You must manage people the way they need to be managed, not the way that’s most comfortable for you. True leadership requires being a chameleon and adapting your approach to connect with and motivate each individual.
• Accountability Defines Your Brand: Your reputation isn't built on being perfect; it's built on how you handle problems. Owning mistakes, taking responsibility, and making things right is what turns a negative experience into lasting customer loyalty.
• Know What You Don't Know: Great leaders empower their teams by stepping back. Trusting your people to do their jobs and letting go of the need to control every outcome fosters growth, loyalty, and a stronger business.

Quotes

• "When your head, your heart, and your gut come into alignment, you'll know. Sprint, start going, and you'll know the answer and just go with it."
• "People always say if you do something you love, you'll never work a day in your life."
• "You have to manage them the way they need to be managed, not the way that's comfortable for you."
• "It's not how good you are when you're good. It's how good you are when you're bad."
• "Happiness is a choice, and success is a choice. And I don't mean success financially... your business can make a huge profit, and that does not mean you're a success."
• "That's the other biggest thing as an owner is know what you don't know."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

TIMECODES

00:00 Introduction and Episode Highlights
01:05 Welcome to the GSD Experience
01:50 Introducing Michelle Sarwas and Bark Avenue Day Camp
03:45 From Corporate Finance to Entrepreneur: The Early Journey
06:20 The Capstone Project That Sparked a Real Business\
09:10 Taking the Leap: Securing an SBA Loan and Giving Notice
15:30 Surviving the 2008 Financial Crisis: "Sink or Swim"
18:15 Overcoming Personal Tragedy and Finding a New Drive
24:45 The Power of Head, Heart, and Gut Alignment
28:30 Building a Culture of Accountability and Customer Service
33:40 The Evolving Science of Dog Care and Enrichment
40:10 How Dogs Teach Us to Manage People (Especially Gen Z)\
46:50 The Art of Stepping Back to Empower Your Team
50:30 Keys to Getting Shit Done: Decisions, Mission, and Purpose
55:45 Final Words of Encouragement for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

In this episode of the Get Shit Done Experience, host John Morris and GSD Technologies' Director of IT, Jason Hoffman, are joined by Darryl Jenkins, the Executive Vice President and a founding partner of Spectrum Robotics. This conversation demystifies the world of AI and robotics, transforming it from a scary, futuristic concept into a practical and powerful tool for modern business. Darryl shares his inspiring journey from the south side of Chicago—shaped by a strong community and early exposure to technology—to leading a cutting-edge automation company. The discussion explores how to overcome the fear of change, the critical difference between a transactional vendor and a true partner, and why the most important question to ask before adopting new tech is simply, "How bad does it hurt?" This episode is a masterclass on ethical leadership, the power of authenticity, and how embracing automation can actually elevate your human workforce.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Overcome the Fear of the Unknown: All progress lies on the other side of fear. Don't let a lack of understanding about technologies like AI stifle your business's growth and potential.
• AI Augments, It Doesn't Just Replace: If you fear a robot will take your job, the challenge is to do a better job. AI is designed to handle repetitive tasks, freeing up your team to be more creative, strategic, and customer-focused.
• First, Find the Pain Point: Before jumping on a technology buzzword, identify the core problem. A "dental pain" that requires immediate resolution needs a different approach than a tolerable "ankle pain." Solving the right problem is key.
• Partnership is a Business Superpower: In a rapidly evolving field like AI, a transactional relationship isn't enough. You need a deep partnership with a brand whose values and moral compass you trust. You're not just buying a tool; you're integrating a part of their family into yours.
• Community Creates Opportunity: Your environment shapes you. Darryl’s story highlights how early mentorship from neighbors in his community opened the doors to a career in technology, proving that a strong local network is invaluable.
• True Leaders Illuminate Others: A leader's job isn't to be the only bright bulb in the room but to create a grid where each person's light illuminates the next. Empower your team to shine and have the confidence to speak last.
• Technology is a Tool, Not the Enemy: The technology itself isn't the problem; it's the intent of the people wielding it. Vet your technology partners thoroughly to ensure their ethical framework aligns with yours.
• Bring Your Authentic Self: Success and fulfillment happen at the convergence of your different facets—your faith, your business acumen, and your lived experience. Don't be afraid to bring your whole self to the table.

QUOTES

• "Everything good's on the other side of fear."
• "If you're afraid of AI because you think it's gonna take your job, do a better job."
• "There is a distinct difference between an ankle pain and a dental pain... it's a question of how bad does it hurt?"
• "You have to know what tool to use in the bag... every tool does not work for each situation."
• "The technology is not the problem. AI is not the enemy... It's what's on the TV that can be the problem."
• "It's relational, not transactional."
• "Doing what's right is never easy, but it's rewarding."
• "Don't let the fear of the unknown stifle you get stuff done."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/
Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

TIMECODE

00:00 Introduction & Sponsor Shoutout
03:20 Introducing Darryl Jenkins of Spectrum Robotics
05:15 Darryl’s Upbringing: South Side Chicago & Community Influence
11:45 The Power of Mentorship and Early Tech Exposure
15:30 The GSD Spirit: Overcoming Fear and the Unknown
21:00 The Golf Analogy: Using the Right Tools to Find Your Path
26:10 AI Explained: Moving from Buzzword to Business Solution
31:05 The Pain Point Philosophy: Dental Pain vs. Ankle Pain
39:00 How AI Augments, Not Replaces, the Human Workforce
46:15 The Critical Importance of Partnership Over Transaction
54:30 Darryl's Journey & The "Venn Diagram" of Authenticity
1:04:00 A Leader’s Role: How to Let Your Team Shine
1:13:20 The Ethics of AI and the Need for a Moral Compass
1:21:45 A Look Inside Spectrum Robotics: Culture and "Robinars"
1:28:10 Darryl’s "Get Shit Done" Strategy: Faith, Impact & Intentionality
1:32:45 How to Connect with Darryl and Spectrum Robotics

In this episode of the Get Shit Done Experience, host John Morris and co-host Lauren Klaus are joined by Tyler Hock, a relocation specialist and problem-solving mastermind from the Beltman Relocation Group. This conversation dives deep into an industry we often overlook until we desperately need it, revealing that moving a business is far more complex than just packing boxes. Tyler shares his unique journey from aspiring war reporter to a top-tier sales professional in the logistics space. The discussion covers the critical importance of a consultative sales process, the pitfalls of choosing the cheapest option, and how a 100-year-old company stays on top by embodying a "Be the Customer" philosophy. This episode is a masterclass in the value of expertise, the power of a strong company culture, and how technology can provide the peace of mind needed to truly get shit done.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Culture is Strategy: A company that's been in business for over 100 years, like Beltman, thrives on a deeply ingrained, top-down culture. Their philosophy, "Be the Customer," ensures every decision is made with the client's best interest at heart.
• The Cheapest Option is Rarely the Best Value: Choosing a vendor based on the lowest price often leads to costly mistakes, operational downtime, and unforeseen problems (sometimes literally). True value lies in expertise, proactive problem-solving, and peace of mind.
• Consultative Sales Wins: A great salesperson acts as a "diagnosis tool," asking the right questions to uncover needs the client may not even be aware of. They know something you don't, and their questions are designed to lead you to a better outcome.
• Specialize in Your Uniqueness: While your business challenge feels unique to you, an experienced partner has likely seen and solved a similar problem dozens of times. Lean on their specialized expertise.
• Your Job is to Run Your Business, Not Manage a Move: Delegate complex, high-stakes projects like relocation to specialists. This frees you and your team to focus on your core mission and vision without getting bogged down in logistics.
• Technology Drives Transparency: Modern solutions, like Beltman's proprietary "Total Track" software, provide clients with real-time visibility and accountability, eliminating the need to "babysit your babysitter."
• Handle "No" with Grace: How you handle rejection in sales is just as important as how you handle a yes. Maintaining a relationship with grace can lead to future opportunities and referrals.
• Ask for Help: Don't be too proud to think you have to handle every challenge alone. Whether in business or your personal life, reaching out to your community and asking for help is a sign of strength.

QUOTES

• "You don't stay in business for a hundred years for no reason."
• "There's that philosophy that we would rather not do it than do it badly."
• "If you're working with a sales consultant for anything and they're asking you questions, it's because they know something that you don't."
• "Your job is to be the CEO, not to specialize in moving. That's why you have us... let's utilize the resources around us."
• (On the result of hiring the cheapest mover) "When you go for the lowest price, that's the shit you get. Literally. Literally."
• "It's not how well you handle the yeses, it's how well can you handle the nos."
• "You don't know what you don't know."
• "Be willing to ask for help. Don't be so proud that you think you have to climb the mountain alone."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com 
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

TIMECODE

00:00 Introduction & Sponsor Shoutout

02:30 Introducing Tyler Hock: Relocation Specialist & Problem Solver

04:25 Tyler’s Origin Story: From Aspiring War Reporter to Sales

08:15 The Grit of Early Sales: Door-Knocking with a Golf Ball

12:10 Entering the Moving Industry & Wild Stories from the Field

20:20 Transitioning to Beltman: The Importance of Operational Support & Culture

25:30 Beltman’s “Be the Customer” Philosophy

32:15 The Power of a Multi-Generational Family Business

35:45 Elevating the Industry with "Total Track" Proprietary Software

42:00 How Technology Provides Proactive Solutions and Peace of Mind

48:15 The Salesperson as a "Diagnosis Tool"

51:30 Cautionary Tale: The True Cost of the Cheapest Mover

57:45 Why a Good Salesperson Asks So Many Questions

1:01:30 The Hidden HR Cost of a Bad Relocation

1:07:00 Hard Costs vs. Soft Costs: Seeing the Full Value Proposition

1:12:30 The Most Out-of-the-Box Move: A Giant, Delicate Plaster Globe

1:16:45 The Infamous "Defecation Incident" & Getting Called in to Fix a Mess

1:23:45 The Long Game: Handling "No" with Grace and Building Relationships

1:31:00 Final Thoughts: The Power of Asking for Help

In this deeply moving episode of the Get Shit Done Experience, host John Morris sits down with Adam Petraglia, a man whose life journey is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of perspective. Adam shares his harrowing and inspiring story of being diagnosed with leukemia on his 11th birthday, enduring a six-month hospital stay that included a five-week-long coma, and ultimately surviving against the odds. This profound experience became the foundation for his life's mission. Adam is the founder of Bricks of Hope, a nonprofit that donates new LEGO sets to children in hospitals, restoring a sense of control, joy, and normalcy in a frightening and choiceless environment. This conversation is a powerful exploration of turning life's greatest challenges into a calling to serve others. It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and a reminder that our deepest adversities can pave the way for our greatest impact.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Adversity Shapes Purpose: Adam's life-threatening battle with cancer at a young age wasn't just something that happened to him; it was something that happened for him, ultimately giving him a profound sense of purpose and a "second chance" at life.
• The Power of Perspective: A difficult diagnosis can be viewed as a "gift" that provides a unique and powerful perspective on life, valuing every moment and focusing on what truly matters.
• The Therapeutic Power of Play: For a child in a hospital, making choices is rare. A simple LEGO set provides a healthy distraction, a creative outlet, and restores a crucial sense of control and imagination, which is vital for mental well-being and coping during treatment.
• Family as a Foundation: A strong, hardworking, and supportive family system is critical in overcoming unimaginable challenges. These foundational values create the resilience needed to "run through a brick wall" together.
• Simplicity in Mission: The most effective missions are often the simplest. Bricks of Hope’s success lies in its clear, straightforward goal: to give a LEGO set to a sick kid to make them smile. This simplicity makes it easy for others to join and support.
• Significance Over Success: True fulfillment comes from creating significance, not just achieving success. Using one's personal story and skills to enrich the lives of others is a powerful way to give back.
• Ask for Help: Starting a movement or a nonprofit begins with the simple, yet powerful, act of sharing your story and asking for help. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Always Give More: Living by the principle of "always giving more" in any capacity can be the catalyst for changing someone else's life for the better.

QUOTES

• "Hearing the words, 'Adam, you have cancer,' was my gift on my 11th birthday."
• "Living and surviving was the option... there is no other option."
• "I think I survived for a reason... we now have a greater purpose to do something."
• "The mission is simple. It's not supposed to be hard... People donate Legos, we take 'em to kids. We get their reaction. We skip out of there with joy and then we go do it again."
• "It was restoring a sense of control in an often very choiceless environment when you're in a hospital."
• (On a child's reaction to receiving a LEGO set) "He eventually said, 'This is the best day of my life.'"
• "Treatment isn't seasonal, so we can't be either."
• "Always give more... Oftentimes [that] is the difference in changing the life of somebody else."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

Timecode

00:00 Introduction & Sponsor Shoutout
02:20 Introducing Adam Petraglia: A Purpose-Driven Human
04:30 The LinkedIn Post: A Picture of Rock Bottom and a Picture of Hope
05:45 The Diagnosis: Receiving a Cancer Diagnosis on His 11th Birthday
07:15 The Five-Week Drug-Induced Coma
09:30 The Power of Perspective and Overcoming Adversity
11:00 Family Principles: The Value of Being Hardworking
15:20 The Coma Experience: Being "Locked In" But Hearing Everything
19:15 Coming Out of the Coma and the Long Road to Recovery
22:20 Family Dynamics and Support System During a Crisis
26:45 Returning to School and Finding a "New Normal"
30:30 The Psychological Journey and Finding a Greater Purpose
35:40 From an "Empty" Job to a Purposeful Career in Fundraising
41:30 The "Aha" Moment: Combining Skillset and Story to Create Bricks of Hope
46:00 The Mission of LEGOs: Restoring Control, Joy, and Childhood
51:20 How to Help: The Simple Process Behind Bricks of Hope
54:15 Incredible Growth: From 70 Kits to 800 Kits a Month
56:30 A Story from the Hospital: "This is the best day of my life."
1:01:00 The Big Hairy Audacious Goal: Bricks of Hope USA
1:04:20 The Principle of Getting Shit Done: Mastering Simplicity
1:11:30 A Call to Action for Businesses: How to Get Involved and Why It Matters
1:14:30 Final Thoughts: "Always Give More" and Upcoming Events

In this high-energy episode of the Get Shit Done Experience, host John welcomes David Herbow and Michael "Spike" Engelman, the dynamic founders behind Level Up Social Networking Events. They pull back the curtain on the changing landscape of sales and how their unique approach to networking is disrupting traditional methods. David and Spike share the genesis of Level Up, fueled by their own frustrations with conventional networking, and reveal their strategies for building genuine connections and driving business growth. The conversation is packed with actionable advice for salespeople, from mastering the art of "working the room" to leveraging social media for authentic engagement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their sales approach, build a powerful professional network, and truly "get shit done."

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The Evolution of Sales: Traditional cold calling and email tactics are less effective; the new era demands relationship-driven sales and personal brand building.
• Intentional Networking: Successful networking events have a clear purpose and attract specific types of professionals, moving beyond "just bodies in a room."
• Reciprocity is Key: True referral partnerships are built on a give-to-get philosophy, where actively making introductions for others leads to mutual benefit.
• Beyond the Business Card: Leveraging LinkedIn QR codes and immediate digital connections (like sending a selfie via DM) creates more memorable and actionable follow-ups than traditional cards.
• The Power of Personal Branding: In today's market, people follow profiles, content, and personal brands, making it crucial for salespeople to document their activities and showcase their expertise online.
• Working the Room: Effective networking involves active listening, asking open-ended questions like "What brought you here?", and finding commonality to build genuine rapport.
• Creating Your Own Opportunities: Salespeople should proactively build their networks and generate leads rather than solely relying on company-provided resources or waiting for opportunities to knock.
• The Introvert's Advantage: Level Up events are designed to be comfortable and authentic, fostering an environment where even introverts can thrive and build valuable connections.

QUOTES

• "Break the mold of like the old traditional sales style of come in, you make a hundred dial a day, and hopefully you catch some people. That's just not the way of really selling and getting to know people anymore."
• "People don't follow business cards. They follow profiles, they follow content, they follow personal brands."
• "Quality leads the ICP, but follow it up on personality and then moving forward... develop different circles of peripheral referral partners."
• "If you're hungry... you gotta go out there and kill some stuff."
• "What do you need from me? Leave that open ended to again like help that aspect of like, I'm truly in it to help you out."
• "Sometimes all you gotta do is just put the environment in place and let the magic happen itself. You don't gotta force things. Things will happen naturally, organically, authentically."
• "If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door."
• "Come in with an open mind. You know, don't come in with the aspect of I'm gonna come in and I'm gonna hit a home run here... but I'm gonna hit a single."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

Timecode

00:00 Introduction: Getting Shit Done in Life's Challenges
02:24 Introduction to Level Up Founder
03:50 The Evolution of Content Creation and Social Selling
06:30 Origin Story: How David and Spike Met
08:50 The Frustrations of Traditional Networking Events
13:00 Fundamental Principles of Level Up
17:00 The Birth of Level Up: An Outlook Invite
19:00 The Changing Landscape of Sales and Networking
23:45 David's Advice as a Director of Sales: Qualified Leads & Referral Partners
32:00 The Importance of Reciprocity in Networking
34:00 Addressing the "All Salespeople" Objection in Networking
39:20 The Need for Networking Training in Companies
43:00 Strategies for Working the Room at Events
47:00 The Power of Digital Follow-ups (LinkedIn QR, DMs, Content
52:00 The CEO/Founder Level Up Event
57:00 Leading from the Front: CEOs and Networking
59:30 "What Grinds My Gears": Common Networking Misconceptions
01:03:00 The Vision for Level Up: Membership Portal and Expansion
01:08:00 Advice for Young Salespeople: Create Opportunities & Be Creative
01:10:30 "If Opportunity Doesn't Knock, Build a Door
01:12:00 Final Thanks and Call to Action

In this incredibly inspiring episode of the Get Shit Done Experience, host John welcomes Heather Krueger, a remarkable individual who defied grim prognoses and found profound purpose through unimaginable health challenges. Heather shares her raw and authentic journey, from a life-threatening liver disease diagnosis in her early twenties to a life-saving transplant. The conversation delves into the emotional rollercoaster of her health battle, the unexpected twist of a Hallmark movie made about her story, and the deep personal work she undertook to overcome mental health struggles, divorce, and the quest for true healing. Heather's powerful narrative emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, the strength found in vulnerability, and her mission to inspire others to unlock their own untapped potential.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Resilience in the Face of the Unthinkable: Heather’s story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome, even when given a less than 50% chance of living. Her unwavering belief that she wouldn't die played a crucial role in her survival.
• The Interconnectedness of Mind and Body: A pivotal realization for Heather was how deeply her mental state impacted her physical recovery. Emotional stress and unresolved trauma directly manifested as increased pain and fatigue, highlighting the critical link between mental and physical well-being.
• Asking for Help is a Sign of Strength: Despite her independent nature, Heather learned that seeking support from therapists, coaches, and loved ones was not a weakness but a fundamental step towards healing and growth.
• The Power of Positive Vibration: Heather emphasizes that maintaining a high vibrational energy—through hope, faith, and positive self-talk—can profoundly impact one's ability to navigate adversity and attract positive outcomes, both personally and professionally.
• Embrace Your Scars and Your Story: Heather's journey underscores the importance of owning one's narrative, including visible and invisible scars. Sharing authentic struggles can provide immense value and inspiration to others who may be facing their own challenges.

QUOTES

• "Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It's actually a sign of strength because the hardest part of the whole thing is to ask for the help. You have to be strong to do that."
• "After the transplant, dealing with the physical recovery, if I had a hard day mentally, I was in so much more pain. I was more tired and that's when I really realized how much these things are interconnected."
• "My whole liver came out and I got 55% of his, and within two to three months I believe it was my lip portion I got and his liver grew back to full size. That is so cool.”
• "I was at that point where I felt like I was just bursting inside. Like, something needs to change, something needs to be done. So I was open to his help."
• "I mean, I was excited to meet him, to see what he was like, but it was awkward too. 'Cause I'm like, thank you. Like, what do you say?"
• "I wanted to get the word out there. Educate. Yeah. Show people. You really have to be an advocate for your health."
• "I think there's so many things in our life that are illusions, our fear, that it's because of our programming, maybe our anxiety, our self-sabotage, our negative self-talk, that we're blocking ourself and we stay stuck longer than we have to because of this illusion of something."
• "We all have a story and no matter how big or small you think your story is, someone can learn from it."

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message.

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

Timecode

00:00 Introduction: Getting Shit Done in Life's Challenges
02:24 Heather's Early Life and Nursing School Dreams
04:00 First Health Symptoms Emerge
06:15 The Frustration of Undiagnosed Illness
09:20 A Chiropractor's Unexpected Discovery
13:10 The Liver Biopsy and Devastating Diagnosis
16:15 The Impact of Hepatic Encephalopath
18:40 Facing a 60-Day Prognosis
22:00 The Power of Faith and Mindset
25:00 Gallbladder Removal and Transplant Lis
27:50 Finding a Living Donor: An Unbelievable Match
32:20 The Liver Transplant and Miraculous Recovery
35:50 Media Attention and the Hallmark Movie Deal
41:40 The Mental Health Struggle Post-Transplant
46:00 Marriage Challenges and Divorce
50:15 Rebuilding Life and Finding Purpose
54:00 The Birth of "The Uncoiled Mind"
58:30 Practical Steps for Getting Shit Done
01:03:00 The Importance of Networking and Giving
01:06:50 Heather's Vision for Motivational Speakin
01:10:00 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of the Get Shit Done Experience, host John welcomes attorney Blake Harris, the managing director of the world's largest exclusively offshore asset protection law firm. The conversation dives into the importance of not just making money, but also protecting it through mechanisms like offshore trusts. Blake shares his journey, insights on building and maintaining a successful law firm, the significance of company culture, and the nuances of effective marketing in the legal industry. The episode also touches on Blake's personal life, his approach to maintaining work-life balance, and the fundamental values that guide his practice.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Protecting Wealth Is as Important as Building It: Blake emphasizes that making money is only half the battle — protecting it through smart legal structures like offshore trusts is essential for long-term financial success.
• Offshore Trusts Aren’t Just for the Ultra-Wealthy: Offshore asset protection is accessible and increasingly relevant for entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals looking to safeguard their earnings.
• Law Firm Success Starts with Culture: Blake credits a strong, values-driven company culture as a key component in building the world’s largest offshore-only asset protection law firm.
• Marketing Matters — Even in Law: Strategic, authentic marketing helped Blake scale his practice, proving that legal success isn’t just about knowledge, but also visibility.
• Balance Fuels Performance: Blake opens up about how prioritizing work-life balance keeps him sharp — and how entrepreneurs can stay grounded while building big.
• Values First, Always: Whether dealing with clients or running his firm, Blake leads with integrity, trust, and clarity — values that guide every decision he makes.

QUOTES

• “Making money is not just half the battle. It’s protecting it. That’s the real key.”
• “Nobody really wants an offshore trust… I want the benefit of the offshore trust — which is protection, but it’s also peace of mind.”
• “You can’t become great at anything unless you do it enough times.”
• “An offshore trust is an excellent tool for protection from lawsuits and divorce. It doesn’t do anything in terms of taxes — it’s actually a tax-neutral structure.”
• “People pay these settlements and become victims of legal extortion.”
• “If you’ve put your blood, sweat, and tears into building a business, you owe it to yourself to protect it.”
• “Lots of people copy my content — that’s okay. They can’t copy my culture.”

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, review, and share with a friend who would benefit from the message. 

Unlock your business's potential with TTSG! Join forces with us to elevate your brand, streamline your operations, and achieve unparalleled success. With our comprehensive range of services—from IT solutions and cybersecurity to cutting-edge marketing strategies—we empower you to focus on what you do best. Let's create a story worth telling and drive your business forward.

Take the first step today.

Explore what we have to offer:

Experience cutting-edge technology with TTSG: https://www.ttsg.com/
Unlock your potential with GSD Technologies: http://gsdnow.com/
Transform your vision into reality with 20Twenty: https://20twentydesign.com/

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a consultation and let’s start creating success together!

Partner with TTSG and experience the difference. Let's get shit done together!

Timecodes

00:57 Welcome to the Get Shit Done Experience
01:41 Meet Attorney Blake Harris
02:20 Blake's Early Life and Career Beginnings
07:30 Building a Successful Law Firm
14:51 The Importance of Social Media and Culture
26:52 Client Success Stories and Legal Insights
33:04 Researching Asset Protection Jurisdiction
33:31 Domestic vs. Offshore Trusts
34:20 Top Asset Protection Countries
36:01 Challenges in the Asset Protection Industry
37:26 Building a Successful Business
38:30 Ethics and Integrity in Business
41:03 Clientele and Asset Protection
48:03 Personal Branding and Marketing
55:28 Future Plans and Personal Life
01:01:39 Final Thoughts and Best Advice