2025 is almost over — and if this year came with rejections, slow growth, or missed opportunities, you’re not alone.

I was reminded of something powerful at BizWorld’s RiskMaster Luncheon, watching young entrepreneurs pitch their ideas and negotiate like pros.

At one point, I offered a young girl $3 for her $5 bracelet. She looked me dead in the eye — no hesitation, no discount.

Respect.

That’s entrepreneurship in its purest form: clarity, confidence, and no panic when someone says “no.”

In this podcast, I’ll unpack why rejection isn’t the end — it’s direction.

We’ll look at how to turn 2025’s tough moments into momentum for 2026, and why sometimes a “no” is exactly what sets you on the right path.