the Learn-It-All™ podcast

There’s always a way—and Ursula Mentjes can show you how.

On this episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon welcomes Ursula Mentjes: five-time bestselling author, award-winning entrepreneur, and business growth expert. Together, they explore why “accidental salespeople” often outperform the pros, what really drives outsize business growth, and how to dismantle limiting beliefs that hold leaders back. Ursula opens up about her early days in sales, her leap from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, and the mindsets that helped her—and her clients—break through seven-figure ceilings. Plus, she shares actionable tips on hiring, delegation, and leveraging AI as a powerful growth tool.

Straight talk, real stories, and a toolbox of strategy-meets-mindset wisdom—this episode is for anyone ready to think bigger, grow faster, and prove there’s always a way.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. The surprising traits that make “accidental salespeople” outperform even industry veterans
2. Why limiting beliefs—not just markets or experience—are often the main barriers to growth, and how to break through them
3. The step-by-step process Ursula uses to help clients 2x (or 10x) their business
4. Why hiring for attitude and openness can be more powerful than hiring for a résumé
5. The essential role of delegation, trust, and empowering your team (plus how to avoid being the organizational bottleneck)
6. How AI can be leveraged for small business growth, and why leaders can’t afford to resist it

Timestamps:

00:00 – Ursula on “there’s always a way”

00:28 – Meet Ursula Mentjes and her journey from corporate to coaching

01:20 – Why accidental salespeople often succeed

02:15 – Ursula’s early sales lessons and reframing “the numbers game”

04:08 – Advice for finding (and hiring) great salespeople

07:04 – Top traits of high-performing salespeople

08:41 – Rejection and limiting beliefs in sales and leadership

09:09 – Ursula’s NLP techniques for overcoming limiting beliefs

13:15 – Making the jump from corporate to entrepreneurship

21:00 – Lessons in trust and delegation from running a $20M company

23:56 – The reality of launching her own business (and facing new comfort zones)

26:20 – Leadership style, micromanagement, and empowering others

27:39 – Who Ursula coaches and what her revenue model looks like

29:55 – Why mindset matters more than strategy, and the “who not how” approach

33:02 – Real client story: tripling growth with expanded vision and AI tools

35:54 – The most common reasons businesses get stuck

37:18 – Upgrading your team and vision to scale

38:19 – How to depersonalize growth decisions (“what is your business asking for?”)

38:58 – The spectrum of AI readiness—and why it matters

41:21 – Getting leaders excited about custom GPTs and real AI adoption

43:05 – Critical thinking as the ultimate future skill

44:21 – The power of coaching and who you should hire

47:07 – Ursula’s book rec: “One Great Goal” for clarity in action

48:42 – Ursula’s advice: There is always a way.

About Ursula Mentjes

Ursula Mentjes is a five-time bestselling author, award-winning entrepreneur, and sought-after business growth expert who specializes in helping leaders scale to multiple six and seven figures—while working less. A former top sales leader, Ursula built her coaching practice after a corporate career leading $20M+ companies and now brings her unique blend of mindset, delegation, and strategy to entrepreneurs nationwide. Ursula is known for her laser-sharp focus on dissolving limiting beliefs, building high-trust teams, and integrating AI for next-level performance.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Connect with Ursula: www.ursulainc.co
2. Ursula Mentjes on LinkedIn
3. Book: The Psychology of Selling by Brian Tracy
4. Book: The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer
5. Book: Who Not How and 10x is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan
6. Dr. Joe Dispenza’s work on mindset and thought patterns

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Learn as if you’ll live forever. Lead as if you’re always becoming.

In this energizing solo episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon Lembi takes us on a deep dive into his signature “Five C’s” framework—a roadmap for leaders who want to double down on their human advantage in an AI-driven world. Drawing on his own journey and packed with relatable stories, Damon reveals why humility opens the door to greatness and how Character, Curiosity, Courage, Confidence, and Community will set you apart as a truly “Learn-It-All” leader. From practical leadership tips to actionable exercises, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to keep learning, support their team, and future-proof their skills as the workplace evolves.

Damon shares how his own struggles (and wins) in public speaking, podcasting, and leadership continue to shape his approach—and why the best leaders are humble, experiment freely, and create spaces where everyone can grow. Whether you’re embracing new AI tools or just trying to build better habits, you’ll come away with inspiring ideas and practical next steps for leading with more humanity in every environment.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why humility is the essential “ticket in” for true personal and professional growth
2. How strong character builds trust, especially in uncertain times
3. The power of curiosity to transform your learning and open unexpected doors
4. Why courage matters more than knowledge—and how taking risks creates real progress
5. How confidence is built through reps, reflection, and celebrating mistakes as learning opportunities
6. The value of giving back and building community to cement your own learning and uplift others

Timestamps:

00:00 – The Gandhi quote that grounds today’s leadership lesson

00:14 – The “human advantage” in an age of AI

00:32 – Introducing the Learn-It-All 5Cs framework

01:02 – Why humility is non-negotiable for leaders

01:45 – The first C: Character—integrity when no one’s watching

02:41 – The second C: Curiosity—how, and why, to never stop learning

03:29 – Is AI killing curiosity, or supercharging it? Damon’s take

04:01 – Courage: why learning requires stepping outside your comfort zone

05:06 – Real-life stories: Damon on podcasting, public speaking, and a teammate’s growth

06:10 – Building confidence through courage and regular practice

06:35 – The leader’s job: Growing your team’s skills and confidence

07:20 – Community: giving back to learn even more

08:22 – Recap: the five Cs and the foundation of humility

09:37 – How to encourage confident experimentation (especially with new AI tools)

10:04 – Staying present, slowing down, and appreciating what makes us human

10:35 – Free resources: Book and self-assessment to jumpstart your growth

10:47 – Call to action: Subscribe, rate, stay curious

About Damon Lembi

Damon Lembi is a 3x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All™ Podcast, and CEO of Learnit – a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Website: www.learnit.com
2. Connect with Damon: Damon Lembi on LinkedIn
3. Download Damon’s book: The Learn-It-All Leader
4. Dave Brock’s book: “Is Good Enough Good Enough?”

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

From Solopreneur to $10 Billion: Mark Gleiberman on Focus, Family, & Resilient Growth

What does it take to scale a business from a single 38-unit apartment acquisition to a 33,000-unit, $10B empire? In this eye-opening episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Mark Gleiberman, Founder & CEO of MG Properties, who walks us through three decades of disciplined growth. Together, they break down the power of saying "no" to distractions, weathering economic storms, and building a culture where people thrive for decades.

Mark Gleiberman explains why MG Properties has stuck with one niche—existing multifamily apartments—and how that single-minded focus fueled their resilience through multiple market cycles. You’ll hear the inside story of scaling a team, navigating family dynamics in leadership, and why great organizations are built on values as much as they are on strategy. It’s a masterclass in entrepreneurship, disciplined growth, and the art of building businesses that last.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why staying laser-focused on one niche can be your ultimate strategic advantage
2. Mark Gleiberman shares how MG Properties consistently avoided the “shiny object” trap, resisting pressure to branch into other asset classes and staying disciplined—even as the company exploded in size.
3. The hidden upside of tough markets (and how “safe” doesn’t mean slow)
4. Gain insight into how Mark weathered the S&L crisis, the Great Financial Crisis, and major interest rate hikes—spotlighting the long-term investor mindset and tactical approaches that kept MG thriving.
5. How to scale company culture (and keep talent for decades)
6. Learn how MG Properties cultivates DRIVE—Dedication, Respect, Integrity, Value, Empathy—and why leadership starts with a walk in your employees' shoes.
7. Secrets to effective succession planning and thriving family business dynamics
8. Get actionable advice on bringing the next generation into leadership, building credibility, and ensuring smooth collaboration—at work and at the dinner table.
9. How philanthropy strengthens teams and community impact
10. Discover how MG Properties weaves giving back into their day-to-day, from CASA advocacy to supporting the homeless—and why it fuels retention and company pride.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Why disciplined focus beats chasing the next big thing

02:32 – From 38 units to $10B: MG Properties’ founding story

05:05 – Learning every side of the business—by doing it all firsthand

07:04 – Empathy in leadership: lessons from property management

08:12 – Long-term investing and “the best way to get rich slow”

10:03 – The 1031 Exchange: building generational wealth (tax efficiently)

12:00 – What truly differentiates MG Properties

15:50 – Surviving downturns: 2008 and the recent rate hikes

18:47 – Bringing in institutional capital & the evolution of partnerships

21:08 – The power (and tests) of sticking to your strategy

22:36 – When (and how) to say no to new markets—or new asset classes

24:03 – MG’s strategy for geographic expansion and market diligence

29:59 – People challenges: recruiting, retaining, and developing your team

31:53 – Living—and rewarding—your core values: DRIVE

33:12 – Creating clear pathways for career growth

35:38 – The family business: bringing Jeff on board

39:59 – How the next generation scaled investor relations 5x

42:07 – Navigating disagreements and building consensus as a family team

44:13 – Why outside ideas and new talent sharpen your edge

46:36 – MG Properties’ approach to philanthropy and impact

50:44 – What the next 10 years might hold for MG Properties

52:14 – What makes an ideal MG Properties investor

53:30 – How to connect with Mark Gleiberman and MG Properties

About Mark Gleiberman

Mark Gleiberman is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MG Properties, one of the nation’s leading multifamily real estate investment firms. Since launching the company in 1992 with a single small property, Mark Gleiberman has steered MG Properties through multiple market cycles to a portfolio of 33,000 units valued at over $10 billion. His background as a CPA and tax specialist laid the foundation for MG’s disciplined, tax-optimized approach and long-term focus. Renowned for building high-trust teams, an enriching company culture, and fostering a philanthropic spirit, Mark Gleiberman continues to lead MG Properties as a model of resilience and integrity in real estate.

Resources & Mentions:

1. MG Properties website – Learn more or connect with investor relations
2. Mark Gleiberman on LinkedIn
3. Internal Revenue Code Section 1031 – Learn more about tax-deferred exchanges
4. CASA Program (Court Appointed Special Advocates) – The philanthropy Mark and MG Properties actively support
5. MG Properties Careers – For those interested in joining the team

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s the catalyst that propels you forward. In this high-impact episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon welcomes Jim Harshaw Jr., executive performance coach, TEDx speaker, and former Division I All-American wrestler, for a raw conversation about the real anatomy of achievement. Jim opens up abouthis own journey through sports, business setbacks, and imposter syndrome, revealing the powerful mindset shifts and practical frameworks behind lasting growth. From the wrestling mat to the boardroom, Jim shares how leaning into failure, aligning your life with your true vision, and building an “environment of excellence” helps leaders—and their teams—realize more than they ever thought possible.

Whether you’re an executive, founder, or rising leader, this episode is packed with actionable strategies, hard-won wisdom, and a daily practice that can help you turn every setback into rocket fuel.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why failure is information, not identity—and how to use productive pauses to transform setbacks into growth
2. Jim’s four-step framework that aligns vision, goals, environment, and follow-through for peak performance
3. How to overcome imposter syndrome and show up with authentic confidence
4. Ways to avoid the “success trap” in your career and redefine winning for yourself
5. The critical role of relationships and holistic well-being for sustainable leadership (and why most high-achievers sacrifice the wrong things)
6. How elite performers—from athletes to CEOs—create and sustain environments that drive greatness

Timestamps:

00:00 – Jim reframes failure: it’s data, not identity

01:38 – Why knowing about failure isn’t the same as living it

04:45 – Learning from sports losses vs. business failures

07:01 – Competing fearlessly: the mindset “trick” behind big wins

11:57 – Mindset beats talent—athletics and business parallels

13:08 – Giving yourself credit for trying (and moving through fear)

14:40 – The double-edged sword of imposter syndrome for leaders

16:58 – Leadership lessons from early coaching mistakes

19:32 – What it means to lead with love (vs. just results)

21:36 – Unlocking greatness in others (stories from the mat and beyond)

24:49 – “Environment of excellence”—why your team matters

29:49 – Jim’s four-part framework for sustained high performance

34:47 – Holistic success: balancing health, wealth, self, and relationships

37:42 – The power of accountability and peer networks

44:56 – The secret to consistency: productive pauses

48:56 – Jim’s must-ask questions for breakthrough clarity

52:58 – Jim’s advice for helping kids reframe failure

56:12 – Where to find Jim, his podcast, and coaching resources

About Jim Harshaw Jr.

Jim Harshaw Jr. is an executive performance coach, former Division I All-American wrestler, TEDx speaker, and host of the podcast "Success for the Athletic Minded Man." After experiencing both entrepreneurial failures and elite athletic triumphs, Jim developed a signature four-step framework to help leaders align their vision, goals, and environment for sustainable growth. Today, he coaches CEOs, founders, and high-performing individuals—helping them leverage setbacks, sharpen their mindset, and realize their biggest potential.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Connect with Jim: LinkedIn
2. Jim Harshaw Jr.’s website
3. Jim’s TEDx Talk: “Why I Teach My Children to Fail”
4. Success for the Athletic Minded Man Podcast
5. Jim’s AI Coach: JimAI.com
6. Productive Pause Questions—Download
7. Doug Conant, former CEO of Campbell Soup
8. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey
9. Steven Pressfield (guest referenced)

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Some motivations are built-in. Others, you have to spark. In this mind-opening episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon welcomes behavioral economist and bestselling author Dan Ariely to decode the real drivers of high-performing teams and modern organizations. Together, they explore the hidden costs of remote work, why extrinsic motivators like pay fall short, and how leaders can reignite connection, resilience, and risk-taking in a post-pandemic world. Packed with stories and science, Dan shares actionable ways to make invisible effort matter, untangle workplace polarization, and transform "paycheck players" into passionate contributors.

Whether you lead a team, want to rekindle your own intrinsic motivation, or are struggling to build culture in a hybrid era, this episode delivers practical wisdom you can apply today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why intrinsic motivation—especially feeling appreciated and connected—consistently outperforms extrinsic rewards
2. How remote work can erode the “human fabric” of organizations, and what leaders must do to rebuild it
3. The power of making invisible work and effort visible (including homefront recognition)
4. How celebrating failure actually bolsters resilience and sparks innovation
5. Why risk-taking is non-negotiable for long-term growth—and how the best leaders foster a culture where mistakes fuel learning
6. Dan’s surprising research on motivation, team dynamics, and what the data reveals about great workplaces

Timestamps:

00:00 – Dan explains why intrinsic motivation is the real engine of performance

01:24 – How remote work has stripped away human connection

02:48 – Navigating polarization and identity-based conflict at work

04:07 – Damon asks how to defuse tense workplace conversations

06:51 – The hidden role of casual workplace interactions

12:26 – Can someone new become a great leader working fully remote?

14:08 – Dan’s study: People work harder for teammates than for themselves

15:42 – The hard data: Intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivators

18:51 – When the best employees go “beyond their job description”

20:12 – Moving from “paycheck player” to passionate participant

23:02 – Simple company changes that amplify pride and meaning

27:27 – Why recognition and the big picture matter—even at Target or in manufacturing

29:57 – The 5-year career plan trick every leader should use

32:03 – How fast, direct feedback supercharges growth

34:15 – Defining resilience and risk—and why organizations need more of both

36:11 – The power of failure celebrations and learning from mistakes

41:28 – The secrets (and stumbling blocks) of integrating AI in organizations

44:55 – How to work together—honestly and transparently—in the era of AI

47:29 – Dan’s research on “making the invisible visible” and his current projects

About Dan Ariely

Dan Ariely is the James B. Duke Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Economics at Duke University, a founding member of the Center for Advanced Hindsight, and a three-time New York Times bestselling author. He is renowned for his research on irrational behavior, motivation, and workplace design, sharing insights through acclaimed books such as Predictably Irrational and his highly-rated behavioral science courses. Dan’s expertise has helped transform how companies and leaders think about human motivation, risk, and culture in and out of the workplace.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Learn more at danariely.com
2. Dan Ariely on LinkedIn
3. Predictably Irrational (Book) by Dan Ariely
4. Dan Ariely’s behavioral science course with 42Courses
5. Dan Ariely’s Substack newsletter
6. The Center for Advanced Hindsight

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

What does it take to become a four-time Olympian—when you don’t even pick your sport until age 21? On this electrifying episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon welcomes the unstoppable Ruben Gonzalez: luge athlete, keynote speaker, TEDx phenomenon, and master storyteller. From overcoming repeated failure to redefining visualization as “feelerization,” Ruben Gonzalez shares captivating tales and actionable tools for crushing doubt and charging after big dreams, no matter when—or where—you start.

You’ll get an inside look at what fuels resilience in the world’s most competitive arenas, how to become coachable (even when you’re stubborn), and why passion trumps willpower every single time. Packed with stories of grit, setbacks, and surprise victories, this episode will light a fire under anyone ready to level up, lead stronger, and leap further.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why your internal “bulldog” is more important than willpower or natural talent—and how to find yours
2. The incredible true story of how a kid from Argentina went from Olympic superfan to luge competitor in just four years
3. The science of belief and how to cultivate the courage to start, and the persistence to keep going
4. How to reframe temporary pain and setbacks for long-term growth (and why most people quit too soon)
5. The uncoachable athlete’s journey: what it took for Ruben Gonzalez to finally accept feedback and break through to a new level of performance
6. Why hanging around winners—and seeking out mentors—is the real shortcut to success (along with practical tips for finding and learning from your leaders)

Timestamps:

00:00 – Ruben Gonzalez on focusing on your dream (not obstacles)

01:11 – Meet Ruben Gonzalez: Olympian, speaker, and unlikely athlete

02:26 – Why belief—not just effort—is the starting line for success

03:13 – Tracing the roots of Ruben Gonzalez's drive and passion

04:05 – “Dream, Struggle, Victory”: Lessons from biographies and childhood adversity

07:44 – The phone call that changed everything—and the power of not quitting

10:00 – Why choosing the hardest path can be the winning strategy

13:08 – Breaking bones and breaking through: surviving the “weeding out” phase

18:23 – How to mentally bounce back from repeated failure (and why most people give up)

20:09 – The secret: Find someone who’s already crossed the minefield

24:41 – How leaders can help teams overcome doubt and believe in themselves

29:41 – Tactics for helping high performers recognize their own greatness

33:58 – Imposter syndrome on the Olympic stage—and how Ruben Gonzalez earned respect

39:10 – Becoming truly coachable: what changed in Ruben Gonzalez's fourth Olympics

44:32 – Don’t waste a failure! Extracting lessons for the next run

47:00 – Visualization vs. “feelerization”—training your brain for peak performance

51:07 – Change as an opportunity: why adaptability trumps resistance

53:25 – Ruben Gonzalez’s favorite biography and lessons from history’s adventurers

58:00 – Harnessing the Rocky mindset: “I ain’t going down again”

59:16 – THE takeaway: Focus on your dream, not the obstacles

About Ruben Gonzalez

Ruben Gonzalez is a four-time Winter Olympian in the sport of luge, a bestselling author, renowned keynote speaker, and TEDx standout with over one million views. Raised in Argentina, Ruben Gonzalez immigrated to the U.S., fell in love with Olympic stories as a kid, and committed to chasing his own dream at 21—despite never having tried his Olympic sport. Against all odds, he transformed dogged perseverance into global achievement, captivating audiences worldwide with his stories of grit, failure, and the courage to believe.

Resources & Mentions:

1. olympicmotivation.com –Ruben Gonzalez’ s home base for keynotes, books, and programs
2. RubenU.com –Ruben Gonzalez's coaching platform
3. Ruben’s LinkedIn
4. Ruben's TEDx Talk (referenced as a must-watch for more inspiration)
5. Book: The Courage to Succeed by Ruben Gonzalez
6. Book: I Could Never Be So Lucky Again by Jimmy Doolittle
7. Book: The Shortcut
8. Jim Harshaw Jr. Podcast (referenced friendship & podcast

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Winning underdogs aren’t just driven by grit—they’re built on belief, resilience, and relentless curiosity. In this standout episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Jake “The Snake” Plummer, legendary NFL quarterback, business builder, and champion of continuous learning. Jake opens up about the playbook behind his on-field comebacks, the power of true team belief, and why embracing curiosity has fueled his post-NFL success as an entrepreneur. From locker room speeches to the surprising world of functional mushrooms, Damon and Jake dig into leadership, humility, and trusting your gut through every twist—whether the stakes are the Rose Bowl or launching your next venture.

Packed with stories from the huddle and honest lessons from the business frontlines, this episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to build resilient teams, reinvent themselves, or lead with courage in uncertain times.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why belief in yourself and your team is the true difference-maker—on the field and beyond
2. How Jake overcame imposter syndrome and led Arizona State to an epic underdog victory
3. The importance of trusting your instincts when chaos strikes (plus, Jake’s Joe Montana connection)
4. Tactics for building resilient teams and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters most
5. Jake’s journey from NFL star to founder of Umbo (and why curiosity drives his leadership today)
6. How functional mushrooms can boost recovery, focus, and wellness—and why sleep is every leader’s secret advantage

Timestamps:

00:00 – Jake on the power of team and collaboration

02:25 – Essential lessons football taught Jake about belief

04:24 – Comparing Jake to his idol, Joe Montana

07:17 – Overcoming limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome

10:25 – Inside Arizona State’s legendary underdog win vs. Nebraska

13:31 – The team-only meeting that sparked a historic upset

14:31 – Transitioning from NFL stardom into entrepreneurship

18:06 – Healing, identity, and the impact of leaving football

23:31 – On continuous curiosity and learning post-NFL

27:49 – Jake’s mission with Umbo and the power of functional mushrooms

31:43 – What sports taught Jake about leadership and trusting your gut

35:11 – Practical advice for burnt out entrepreneurs and leaders

40:35 – Resources to learn more about functional mushrooms

42:00 – Can mushrooms help with addiction and brain health?

46:23 – Fatherhood, role modeling, and leadership off the field

47:32 – Where to connect with Jake and try Umbo’s products

About Jake Plummer

Jake Plummer is a former NFL quarterback best known for his electric style of play, resilience under pressure, and leadership both on and off the field. From leading Arizona State to a near-national championship run (and orchestrating one of college football’s most memorable upsets against Nebraska) to a successful starting career with the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals, Jake’s journey is filled with lessons in belief, toughness, and adaptability. Since leaving football, he’s reinvented himself as an entrepreneur and co-founder of Umbo, a company pioneering the benefits of functional mushrooms for energy, sleep, and resilience. Passionate about continuous growth and mental wellness, Jake is recognized as an advocate for athlete health, curiosity, and innovative approaches to leadership.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Connect with Jake on LinkedIn
2. Umbo – Jake’s Functional Mushroom Company
3. Use code LIA15 for 15% off Umbo products
4. Jake Plummer on Instagram
5. Jake Plummer on X (Twitter)
6. Subscribe to Umbo’s Newsletter & Free E-Booklet
7. Fantastic Fungi Documentary

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Champions aren’t made by raw talent—they’re forged through mindset, action, and relentless adaptation. In this high-impact episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, host Damon sits down with three-time Olympic gold medalist Leah Amico to uncover what truly separates elite performers from everyone else. From overcoming imposter syndrome and handling high-pressure moments to transforming bitter setbacks into growth opportunities, Leah Amico shares unfiltered stories and actionable strategies for building confidence, staying coachable, and leading with heart. Whether you’re stepping into a new leadership role, striving for personal excellence, or guiding the next generation, this episode delivers powerful tools and perspectives for anyone ready to thrive—on the field or off.

Through candid conversation, practical frameworks like MAP (mindset, action, people/progress), and deeply relatable stories, you’ll discover not only how to reach the top—but how to keep growing once you get there.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why mindset and handling pressure are more critical than raw talent for long-term success
2. How to overcome imposter syndrome when stepping into new or intimidating roles
3. The power of coachability and learning fast—especially after failure
4. How Leah Amico’s MAP framework can guide growth in any domain
5. Navigating adversity and bounced-back detours—plus lessons for conquering career setbacks
6. How to stay confident, take action, and build lasting habits—on and off the field

Timestamps:

00:02 – Why experience is the best teacher

01:07 – Leah Amico’s story: Work ethic, putting team first, and Olympic success

02:54 – Separators of elite champions: Mindset and pressure

04:07 – Becoming coachable and learning from setbacks

05:00 – Handling self-doubt and finding determination

06:28 – Advice for new leaders facing imposter syndrome

07:19 – Learning fast: Asking questions and getting reps

08:42 – Receiving and applying feedback as an athlete

10:48 – Turning focus from problems to solutions

11:53 – The MAP framework: Mindset, Action, People

15:11 – Overcoming adversity: Switching from pitcher to outfielder

19:30 – Advice for people passed over for promotions

21:16 – Breaking out of comfort zones and saying yes to opportunity

23:25 – How Leah Amico fell into speaking and commentating roles

27:35 – Extracting actionable feedback and learning from it

29:35 – Why authenticity and sharing struggles connect leaders

31:11 – Managing identity after sports—and transferring skills to new careers

35:45 – Deciding which opportunities to pursue

37:56 – Advice for women leaders: Build confidence, stay clear, take action

40:09 – Performing under high pressure: Championship stories

43:19 – The lesson of perspective from a superfan

45:54 – Building strong daily habits for growth

48:42 – Why self-validation and positive self-talk matter

51:41 – How coaches/parents can help others see their own greatness

54:16 – Advice for sports parents: Keep it fun, offer support, build confidence

56:50 – The power of showing up—for teams and for family

About Leah Amico

Leah Amico is a three-time Olympic gold medalist, World Champion, and NCAA champion softball player. She’s the author of A Gold Standard, a keynote speaker, sports commentator, and host of the Gold Setter podcast. Known for her relentless work ethic, Olympic leadership, and her MAP framework for growth (mindset, action, people), Leah Amico empowers leaders and teams to thrive under pressure and build winning cultures in any field.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Leah Amico’s website: https://leahamico.com
2. Leah Amico on LinkedIn
3. Leah Amico on Instagram: @Leah20USA
4. Leah’s book: A Gold Standard (details at leahamico.com)
5. Gold Setter Podcast: Gold Setter podcast with Leah Amico

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Winning isn’t just about talent—it’s about mindset, learning from failure, and embracing the pressure. In this electrifying episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Seth Pepper, national champion swimmer turned world-class performance coach, to unpack what separates the “learn-it-alls” from the “know-it-alls.” Together, they dive deep into Seth’s inspiring journey from a 14-year-old novice who couldn’t swim a lap to champion, exploring the transformative power of belief, visualization, and reframing adversity. Seth delivers powerful stories and actionable tools to help you unlock mental performance, use setbacks as fuel, and enjoy the process—no matter how high the stakes.

From overcoming the limits of circumstance to normalizing bold goals, this episode is a masterclass in adopting a growth mindset and thriving under pressure.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why learning beats winning—and how to turn failure into an advantage
2. How Seth went from losing every race to national champion using “mental leapfrogging” and vision boards
3. The powerful role of constructive self-delusion in achieving big goals
4. Tools for reframing pressure and making it your superpower
5. The difference between “human being” and “human doing”—and why your identity shouldn’t be tied to results
6. How to create a supportive environment that nurtures belief and ambition

Timestamps:

00:00 – Believe in belief: The two planets (knowing vs. doing)

00:51 – The power of lifelong learning and the kickoff to the athlete series

02:02 – Mindset: Limiting vs. unlimited perspectives

03:02 – Seth’s late-bloomer story: Starting swimming at age 14

04:32 – The Olympic spark and the influence of media role models

06:16 – Using setbacks, laughter, and humility as fuel for growth

09:31 – Programming your subconscious for success (vision boards & visualization)

12:46 – Goal-setting: Micro goals, process focus, and “mental leapfrogging”

17:13 – The art of constructive delusion: Normalizing future success

19:35 – Why a supportive coach (and environment) accelerates growth

22:21 – Seeking out the biggest challenges (and why losing can be a win)

24:24 – Redefining failure: Data, feedback, and the “bulletproof” mindset

28:10 – Pressure: How elite athletes reframe it into energy

31:05 – The “ape on your back”: Letting go of heavy stories and playing free

37:47 – Identity, balance, and the human being vs. human doing

40:16 – Magical moments: From idolizing Pablo Morales to racing against him

42:32 – Using the same principles for leadership, career, and beyond

43:05 – The final step: Giving yourself permission to win

48:07 – Seth’s parting message: Move from knowing to doing—and enjoy the ride

About Seth Pepper

Seth Pepper is a renowned performance coach, former national college champion swimmer, and one of the most original thinkers in mental mastery, pressure, and human potential. Starting his swimming journey at age 14 with no athletic background, Seth carved his path to the top through relentless learning, creative mindset training, and unwavering self-belief. He now coaches elite athletes, executives, and leaders worldwide, helping them tap into both mental and physical edge. Seth’s signature approach blends powerful stories, actionable tools, and a deep belief in the potential within everyone.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Website: sethpepper.com
2. LinkedIn: Seth Pepper
3. Viktor Frankl’s "Man’s Search for Meaning"
4. Ryan Holiday’s "The Obstacle Is the Way"
5. Carol Dweck’s "Mindset"

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.

Disruption isn’t coming—it’s already here. In this powerhouse episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon welcomes Arjun Dhingra: two-time Taekwondo world champion, keynote speaker, and one of America’s top mortgage brokers. Arjun shares lessons learned from the mat and the boardroom about resilience, high performance, and adapting when the world shifts beneath your feet. From counterpunching industry changes (hello, AI!) to building an unshakable personal brand, Arjun’s stories will energize you to take action—no matter where you’re starting from.

You’ll learn proven frameworks for staying relevant and thriving amid disruption, why audacity and arrogance are career-killers, and the “gas method” behind genuine impact. Damon and Arjun dig deep on what separates gold medalists (in sport and in life) and why kindness and community are the ultimate secret weapons—plus, they riff on everything from Rocky movies to real estate shakeups and the power of mentorship. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, team leader, or simply love excellence, this episode will push you to keep growing.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why disruption is inevitable—and a three-part framework for turning uncertainty into opportunity
2. What “AA” (audacity and arrogance) is, and how it silently kills careers, companies, and industries
3. How to build a personal brand that outlasts change (and a simple exercise to check yours right now)
4. The critical importance of community, mentorship, and making it about others—not just yourself
5. The “gas method” (give a shit): why success flows from service, not transactions
6. What separates gold medalists from the rest—and how belief, mental toughness, and curiosity fuel greatness

Timestamps:

00:00 – Arjun on showing up regardless of circumstance

00:24 – Damon sets up the “world-class athlete” series and introduces Arjun

02:11 – Why disruption isn’t optional (taxicabs, Uber, and the cost of not adapting)

04:09 – Audacity and arrogance: the mindset that kills adaptation

06:42 – Step 1 of the “counterpunch framework”: the necessity of visibility and building a personal brand

08:03 – What a personal brand really is (simple exercise to check yours)

11:23 – How owning his visibility saved Arjun’s career (and how you can too)

14:49 – The “selfishness” of not sharing your gifts (and why service matters)

17:59 – Step 2 & 3: the power of community and always evolving with the market

21:18 – Using the “gas method” to survive and thrive in tough times

26:29 – Don’t just take from your network—be a giver, always in service

28:14 – Lessons from coaching and competing for Team USA in Taekwondo

31:05 – What really separates top winners: belief and mental toughness

35:02 – How mentors and a supportive circle fuel belief and success

38:53 – The art of people-first coaching: learn your learner

45:49 – How Arjun defines success (and why it’s more than results)

46:43 – Taekwondo’s mantra: always learning, always teaching

50:23 – The origin and story behind the LFG Society community

56:54 – The most in-demand keynotes: managing disruption and simplifying business

59:51 – What Arjun wants his daughters to remember: “He was kind”

01:01:08 – Final thoughts and where to connect with Arjun

About Arjun Dhingra

Arjun Dhingra is a two-time Taekwondo world champion, former co-head coach of Team USA, and one of the top mortgage brokers in the country. An acclaimed keynote speaker, Arjun teaches growth, resilience, and authentic leadership for high performers across industries. He is the founder of LFG Society, a thriving community for entrepreneurs committed to growth, service, and real impact. Arjun’s insights blend elite athletic mindset with real-world business savvy, and his story shows how humility and service beat arrogance and complacency—every time.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Website: arjundhingra.com
2. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunmortgage/
3. Instagram: @arjunmortgage
4. LFG Society Community: lfgenergy.com
5. Arjun’s LFG Energy Podcast: LFG Energy Podcast
6. Andy Storch’s book: Own Your Career, Own Your Life
7. Gary Vaynerchuk (“GaryVee”) – GaryVee’s Live Events

Podcast Contact Information:

Website: www.learnit.com

Email: [email protected]

Follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for more updates.