Nick Rotola, Founder and CEO of UP, transitioned from a professional baseball career with teams like the Wichita Wingnuts, Cleburne Railroaders, and Gateway Grizzlies to entrepreneurship, driven by faith and purpose. Raised in a pastor's family and educated at Oral Roberts University, Nick founded multiple companies, including Baseball IQ, WE3 Group, and the positive-content social platform UP, which aims to counteract the negative effects of social media on youth mental health. His commitment extends to funding evangelism efforts to reach 4 billion people with the gospel. Emphasizing confidence, big thinking, and positive transitions, Nick believes in the power of positioning and posture in navigating life changes. Outside of his professional endeavors, he enjoys the vibrant Midwest life with his wife and two kids, exploring the region's many activities. Through his work, Nick strives to create a healthier, more uplifting online environment while making a meaningful impact on society.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Nick Rotola (Founder & CEO of WE3 Group, Inc.)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-rotola-b87776149

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

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Jon Macaskill's journey from South Africa to Louisiana set the stage for an extraordinary life marked by resilience, determination, and transformation. Excelling as a student and athlete, Jon's talents led him to the prestigious Naval Academy, where he began a remarkable military career. Serving as a Navy SEAL commander until 2020, he navigated various dynamic leadership roles, from the intensity of the battlefield to strategic operations and executive boardrooms. After retiring, Jon embraced a new path fueled by his passion for helping others through mindfulness coaching and resilience training. Initially skeptical of mindfulness, he discovered its life-changing impact, using it to overcome personal challenges and transform his outlook. Jon's teachings emphasize patience, intrinsic motivation, and finding a balance that enhances performance and focus. His inspiring story demonstrates that reinvention and personal growth are possible at any stage of life, showing how experiences from one chapter can profoundly enhance the next.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Jon Macaskill (@jonmacaskill)

https://frogmanmindfulness.com/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode, Michael and John chat with Alvin Cooper III, Founder and ‘Head Style Guy’ of CStyled, a Denver-based haberdashery serving clients across the U.S. Alvin, a Denver native, discovered his passion for fashion as a child during visits to fabric stores with his mom, who made clothes for him and his brother. Before founding CStyled, Alvin held various corporate roles at companies like MCI Worldcom, Qwest, Chipotle, Nike, and Cole Haan. His entrepreneurial journey began with an epiphany about the transformative power of personal style, which led him to explore custom clothing vendors and build a clientele while still working at Cole Haan. After two and a half years of dedication and hard work, Alvin successfully transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship. CStyled now offers custom clothing solutions that address fit issues and enhance confidence. The conversation highlights the significance of personal style, the patience required to build a business, and the importance of finding the right support and brand partners.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Alvin Cooper III (Founder of CStyled)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lindsey Nehls, co-founder of Elevate Leadership, has crafted a career that marries her passion for the environment with her leadership prowess. Her professional journey was sparked by an innovative cross-country trip in a school bus converted to run on waste vegetable oil, which piqued her interest in sustainable energy solutions. A graduate of Harvard and Middlebury College, Lindsey's academic background laid a solid foundation for her rise in the clean tech industry. She skillfully led teams through transformative projects and significant mergers and acquisitions, gaining recognition for her strategic acumen before she ventured into entrepreneurship with Elevate Leadership in 2018. Her company, which develops cutting-edge learning management solutions, serves Fortune 1000 companies and is a testament to her deep-seated expertise, validated by credentials from renowned programs like New Ventures West, DISC, Booth, and the Center for Creative Leadership 360 assessments. Beyond her corporate achievements, Lindsey is also a dedicated mentor at First Round Capital, where she empowers emerging leaders to integrate their personal passions with their professional endeavors. Her approach to leadership is rooted in creating mission-driven cultures, emphasizing intentional time management, and recognizing team successes, all while fostering a sustainable future.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Lindsey Nehls

https://www.elevateleadership.com/

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jacob Rupp's life is a compelling narrative of transformation, resilience, and triumph. Growing up in a single-parent household that lacked spiritual guidance and stability, Jacob faced significant adversities, including challenges with physical health and financial insecurity. Despite these early hardships, he embraced his calling as a rabbi, where he honed his exceptional skills in leadership and effective communication. Today, as the CEO and founder of BusinessLift, Jacob passionately helps coaches and consultants exponentially increase their earnings. By drawing from his own diverse experiences and challenges, he empowers others to clearly define and ardently pursue their success. His journey underscores the power of perseverance, having a clear vision, and taking determined, incremental steps toward achieving grand aspirations.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Jacob Rupp (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobrupp/)

BusinessLift (https://www.businesslift.com/)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Harley Blakeman's journey from a turbulent childhood in a small Florida town to founding Honest Jobs, the leading job board for individuals with criminal records, is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of support. Facing early hardships like his parents' divorce, his mother's addiction, and his father's death, Harley became homeless and was later incarcerated. This challenging time became a turning point as he earned his GED and developed a love for reading. Post-incarceration, Harley graduated with honors from The Ohio State University and overcame numerous employment rejections due to his criminal record, eventually gaining employment at a manufacturing company. This experience inspired him to create Honest Jobs in 2018, a platform that offers not just job opportunities but also hope and the possibility for others to redefine their futures. Harley's commitment to aiding others in similar situations underscores his journey of turning personal adversity into a source of inspiration and support for over 70 million Americans affected by the criminal justice system.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Harley Blakeman (https://www.linkedin.com/in/harley-blakeman/)

Honest Jobs (https://www.honestjobs.com/)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Marcus Long, the dynamic founder of A Long Legacy Capital and a seasoned Cryptologic Warfare Officer, is the featured guest on this week's episode of The Second Act with Michael + John. With an impressive 21-year career in the Navy, where he served everywhere from submarines to satellite intelligence, Marcus transitioned his military discipline and strategic insights into founding a multifaceted real estate investment firm. His portfolio includes single-family homes, multifamily housing, cattle farming, and private lending. Now a resident of Kansas, Marcus is not only a successful entrepreneur but also an influential mentor in prestigious business networks like the War Room and The Kinetic Man. His journey from growing up on a Missouri farm to advising Admirals is a testament to his unwavering commitment to hard work, integrity, and community involvement. Check out this episode to hear Marcus discuss the pivotal moments in his career, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and his passion for mentoring the next generation of investors.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Marcus Long (linkedin.com/in/marcus-long-22278391)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Google: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vdGhlc2Vjb25kYWN0

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode of "The Second Act," we explore the inspiring journey of Todd Lancaster, a retired Air Force Colonel and Colorado native, who transitioned from a 22-year career as an aviation officer to roles in public education and leadership consulting. Todd’s story begins at the Air Force Academy, carrying through to flying jets and helicopters for special operations, and culminating in his current role as a Vistage Chair, where he mentors a diverse group of leaders. His experiences highlight the importance of foundational values, teamwork, and adapting leadership skills across various professional landscapes, underscoring his belief in seeing challenges as opportunities for growth.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Todd Lancaster (https://www.linkedin.com/in/1toddlancaster)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Google: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vdGhlc2Vjb25kYWN0

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hey everyone, Michael and John here with some exciting news from our podcast journey! It's been an amazing seven months full of learning, sharing, and growing with you all. We've been lucky to welcome incredible guests who've shared their powerful stories of overcoming obstacles, achieving successes, and sharing wisdom. Their tales of resilience, joy, and the human spirit have truly shaped our show and connected with our listeners on a deep level.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Google: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vdGhlc2Vjb25kYWN0

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this insightful episode, Michael and John explore the fascinating journey of Martin Skea, who transitioned from a successful corporate career across notable firms like KPMG, IBM, and Wells Fargo, to launching his own innovative venture, ToGatherHomes. With roots in New Jersey and a rich history of living in major US cities before settling in Brussels, Belgium, Martin shares his passion for urban economics, history, and real estate development—a passion likely influenced by his father's connection to the development of the World Trade Center. Martin's professional path is marked by his tenure at the NY Department of City Planning and his pivotal role at Wells Fargo, overseeing strategy, operations, and marketing. His venture into entrepreneurship with ToGatherHomes introduces a revolutionary approach to housing development, offering predesigned, pre-engineered, and prefabricated homes made from mass timber. This leap into entrepreneurship was partly inspired by his time at Harvard's School of Design, driven by a desire to tackle the challenges of affordable housing through sustainable means. Martin's narrative is not just about career transitions but also about overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing new beginnings, and the importance of passion and purpose in driving innovation.

Starring:

Michael Newborn (@michaelnewborn)

John Ballenger (@john-ballenger53)

Guest:

Martin Skea

linkedin.com/in/martin-skea/

https://eit.europa.eu/news-events/news/eit-community-new-european-bauhaus-catalyse-programme-looking-socially-innovative

Network/Produced by:

Seltzer Kings (@seltzerkings) (seltzerkings.com)

Theme Music:

"You Can't Stop Me" by Andy Mineo

Listen Here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/71Uji4fPLsnGEJjeAqomiJ?si=77e3d7bb636c422a

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john/id1707412739

Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a6b369bb-36a9-47ab-9f22-1bacfcff6166/the-second-act-with-michael-and-john

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-second-act-with-michae-123242148/

Google: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vdGhlc2Vjb25kYWN0

Socials:

Linktree: linktr.ee/secondactmovement

Instagram: @secondactmovement

LinkedIn: @secondactmovement

Facebook: @secondactmovement

YouTube: @secondactmovement

Website: michaelandjohn.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices