Young and Profiting (YAP) with Hala Taha: Entrepreneurship and Self-Improvement Podcast

Entrepreneurship often begins with the goal of making money, but Naveen Jain believes chasing money is the worst way to get rich. After losing his father to stage four pancreatic cancer while building Moon Express, he realized success means little unless it helps solve the real problems causing people to suffer. That mindset led him to build Viome and reshape his life’s work around human health. In this episode, Naveen shares how entrepreneurs can think counterintuitively, solve bigger problems, and build businesses that create wealth by improving lives at scale. 

In this episode, Hala and Naveen will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:38) Will Chasing Money Make You Rich?

(03:21) How Top Entrepreneurs Thrive Solving Big Problems

(08:22) The “Why This, Why Now, Why Me” Framework

(16:17) The Outsider Advantage in Business

(30:20) Why the Best Salespeople Never Sell

(34:50) Building a Mindset of Positivity

(42:50) The Traits of Counterintuitive Thinkers

(49:50) Execution Traps That Keep Founders Stuck

(56:53) The Real Measure of Success 

Naveen Jain is a serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author known for building companies that tackle ambitious global challenges. He is the founder of Viome Life Sciences, a health technology company focused on making illness optional, and Moon Express, a lunar exploration company. His latest book, Counterintuitive, teaches unconventional principles for success in life and business. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Mindstone - Master practical AI skills without the complexity with Mindstone’s AI Competency Programme. Head to experience.mindstone.com/yap and get 10% off. 

AT&T - Stay connected with reliable, secure internet built for entrepreneurs. Switch to AT&T Business at business.att.com. 

Quince - Make your summer wardrobe feel easier. Go to Quince.com/profiting for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Resources Mentioned:

Naveen’s Book, Counterintuitive: bit.ly/NJ-Counterintuitive 

Naveen’s Book, Moonshots: /bit.ly/NJ-Moonshots 

Naveen’s Instagram: instagram.com/naveenjainceo 

Naveen’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/naveenjainintelius 

Naveen’s Website: viome.com

YAPE22 with Naveen Jain: youngandprofiting.co/E22 

YAPLive with Naveen Jain: youngandprofiting.co/NJ-YAPLive 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Passive Income, Online Business, Solopreneur, Networking

Mel Robbins spent years stuck in a controlling mindset, trying to micromanage the people and moments around her. Then, at her son’s prom, her daughter gave her the blunt reality check she needed: stop trying to manage everyone and simply “let them.” Those two words became The Let Them Theory, a practice for releasing what is outside your control and putting your energy back where it belongs. In this episode, Mel shares how to stop reacting to everyone else, take action before motivation shows up, and build a business and life with more peace and ownership. 

In this episode, Hala and Mel will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(02:38) The Power of Taking Action

(04:44) Mel's Unforgettable TED Talk Debut

(07:56) The 5 Second Rule: Action Over Motivation

(16:19) Skill Stacking Your Dream Career

(27:22) How Thoughtful Actions Drive Business Growth

(37:13) Why Your Competitors Should Be Your Allies

(40:16) The Let Them Theory: A Powerful Mindset Tool

(51:06) Is Control Hardwired in Human Nature?

(56:20) The Let Them Theory in Business and Leadership

Mel Robbins is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, award-winning podcast host of The Mel Robbins Podcast, and one of the world’s leading experts in mindset, self-improvement, and behavior change. Recognized as a Forbes 50 Over 50 Honoree and one of USA Today’s Top 5 Mindset Coaches, her books, including The 5 Second Rule and The Let Them Theory, have been translated into 50 languages and sold millions of copies worldwide. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Mindstone - Master practical AI skills without the complexity with Mindstone’s AI Competency Programme. Head to experience.mindstone.com/yap and get 10% off. 

AT&T - Stay connected with reliable, secure internet built for entrepreneurs. Switch to AT&T Business at business.att.com. 

Quince - Make your summer wardrobe feel easier. Go to Quince.com/profiting for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.

Resources Mentioned:

Mel’s Book, The Let Them Theory: bit.ly/_LetThemTheory 

Mel’s Book, The 5 Second Rule: bit.ly/_5SecondRule 

Mel’s Podcast, The Mel Robbins Podcast: bit.ly/TMRP-apple 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Work-Life Balance, Work Life Balance, Team Building, Manifestation, Time Management, Life Balance, Goal Setting, Resolutions

Most people see artificial intelligence as a threat to humanity, but Zack Kass believes we're worried about the wrong things. As a former leader at OpenAI, Zack has spent years studying how technological breakthroughs reshape society and why every major innovation is met with fear and resistance. In this episode, Zack explains why people are wired to fear AI, why society may be blaming the wrong forces for many of today's problems, and how artificial intelligence could transform the future of work, education, healthcare, and human potential.

In this episode, Hala and Zack will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:00) Why Humans Are Wired to Fear AI

(13:24) The Real Barriers to Progress and Innovation

(22:39) How the U.S., Asia, and Europe Are Approaching AI

(30:10) Why We Distrust New Technology

(40:59) The Three Stages of Artificial Intelligence

(55:08) What Are AI Agents?

(1:02:47) How AI Could Change Human Connection

(1:08:45) The Future of Work and Purpose

(1:25:08) Debunking the Biggest AI Headlines 

Zack Kass is an AI strategist, futurist, and the former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI, where he built the sales, solutions, and partnerships teams that helped launch ChatGPT to businesses worldwide. He is the USA Today bestselling author of The Next Renaissance, which explores how AI can expand human potential. Today, Zack works as a global AI advisor, consulting with Fortune 1000 companies and governments on how to responsibly deploy artificial intelligence at scale. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Resources Mentioned:

Zack’s Website: zackkass.com

Zack's Book, The Next Renaissance: bit.ly/ZK-TNR 

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt: bit.ly/JH-TAG 

Economic Possibilities for Our Grandchildren by John Maynard Keynes: bit.ly/JMK-EPOOGC 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, AI Marketing, Prompt, AI in Action, AI in Business, Generative AI, AI for Entrepreneurs, AI Podcast

Leila Hormozi mastered self-leadership early, parenting herself through her mother's addiction as a child. That struggle spiraled into alcohol abuse and six arrests in eighteen months, until her father's warning that she could die forced her to rebuild her life through deliberate behavior change. Today, she runs a portfolio of companies that generate over $250 million in annual revenue. In this episode, Leila shares her secret to acting despite fear and anxiety and the leadership skills that help founders and entrepreneurs achieve ambitious goals, build exceptional teams, and create lasting success.

In this episode, Hala and Leila will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(00:32) Turning Childhood Adversity Into Self-Leadership

(09:26) Shifting From a Partying Mindset to Self-Development

(21:11) Learning Sales Skills the Hard Way

(26:17) Treating Dating Like a Sales Funnel

(34:23) Building a Business With Your Partner

(39:29) Getting Uncomfortable to Build Success

(52:21) Building the “Get Sh!t Done” Muscle

(56:02) What Makes a World-Class Leader

(1:02:23) The Hundred-Million-Dollar Hiring Process

(1:14:07) Building a Vision Top Talent Wants

(1:18:28) The Accountability Formula Every CEO Needs

(1:22:25) How Employees Can Stand Out 

Leila Hormozi is an entrepreneur, investor, and the co-founder and CEO of Acquisition.com. Alongside her husband and business partner, Alex Hormozi, she has built and scaled a portfolio of companies generating over $250 million in annual revenue. She is widely recognized for her expertise in leadership, team building, organizational scaling, and creating strong operational and management systems. Leila is also the host of the podcast BUILD with Leila Hormozi. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Cash App - If you’ve been curious about bitcoin but haven’t made the jump yet, Cash App makes it easy. Sign up at https://click.cash.app/ui6m/qmgmlraz

For a limited time, new customers can get $10 added to their balance. Just use code CASHAPP10 when you sign up, and—don’t forget this part—send at least $5 to a friend in the first two weeks. Terms apply. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. brand. For additional information, see the Bitcoin disclosures at cash.app/legal/podcast

Resources Mentioned:

Leila’s Website: acquisition.com

Leila’s Instagram: instagram.com/leilahormozi 

Leila’s Twitter: x.com/LeilaHormozi 

Leila’s YouTube: youtube.com/@leilahormozi 

Leila’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leilahormozi

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Networking, Goal Setting, Time Management, Problem Solving, Decision Making, Strategic Planning

Too many aspiring entrepreneurs spend years saving for business ownership, only to invest in an opportunity that was never the right fit. Alex Smereczniak has seen buyers focus on passion, hype, or income potential before asking whether a business matches their skills, lifestyle, and financial reality. In Part 2 of this How We Profit episode, Alex shares his five-step framework for evaluating franchise opportunities and breaks down real business models that can help entrepreneurs build wealth through franchising. 

In this episode, Hala and Alex will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:15) Franzy’s Business Model

(12:27) The Five-Step Process for Franchise Buying

(29:29) Red Flags Every Buyer Should Watch Out For

(32:20) Why Artificial Turf Franchises Are Booming

(38:25) The Business of Pediatric Therapy Centers

(43:53) Beauty and Wellness Studio Margins

(46:00) Pilates Studios as Cash Machines

(48:17) The Economics of Coffee Shop Franchises

(53:11) Profitable Franchise Categories for Entrepreneurs 

Alex Smereczniak is the co-founder and CEO of Franzy, an AI-driven franchise discovery platform that helps aspiring business owners find and evaluate franchise opportunities. Before Franzy, he co-founded 2ULaundry and LaundroLab, a tech-enabled laundry delivery and laundromat franchise business. He has experience building marketplace businesses, raising venture capital, and scaling franchise systems. Join the thousands that use Franzy to research, match with, and buy a franchise at franzy.com 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Resources Mentioned:

Alex’s Platform, Franzy: https://franzy.com/ 

Alex’s Instagram: instagram.com/alexfromfranzy/   

Alex’s Twitter: x.com/AlexfromFranzy  

Alex’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alex-smereczniak-40310329   

HWP with Alex Part 1: youngandprofiting.co/AS-HWPE3PT1 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Disclaimer: This episode is a paid partnership with Franzy. Sponsored content helps support our podcast and continue bringing valuable insights to our audience.

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Passive Income, Online Business, Solopreneur, Networking

Entrepreneurship gave Natalie Ellis the success she had always wanted, but behind the scenes, BossBabe started to feel like a business she could not step away from. When motherhood, burnout, and a difficult co-founder split forced her to slow down, she realized the freedom she built the company for was no longer reflected in how the business ran. So she rebuilt BossBabe into a business designed for freedom; one that could scale without needing her at the center of it all. In this episode, Natalie reveals the systems that allowed her team to generate $2.2 million during her maternity leave and shares how entrepreneurs can build a freedom-based business that supports their life, not traps them inside it.

In this episode, Hala and Natalie will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(01:27) When Success Becomes a Business Trap

(05:44) The Cost of People-Pleasing

(10:05) Navigating the Business Partner "Divorce" 

(14:40) Building a Scalable Freedom-Based Business

(19:31) Natalie’s Strategy as a Creator Entrepreneur

(30:55) Scaling Revenue With One Core Offer

(35:58) BossBabe Before and After Motherhood

(43:13) Building a Lifestyle Business for Freedom

(49:09) Natalie’s Entrepreneurship Journey

(59:40) Leveraging AI for Business Growth

Natalie Ellis is the founder and CEO of BossBabe, a business education platform and community for women entrepreneurs. She is also the co-founder of the wellness brand glōci, host of the BossBabe Podcast, and an angel investor in female-owned brands. Her new book, The Freedom-Based Business Method, teaches entrepreneurs how to build a business that creates both financial success and lifestyle freedom.

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Cash App - If you’ve been curious about bitcoin but haven’t made the jump yet, Cash App makes it easy. Sign up at https://click.cash.app/ui6m/qmgmlraz

For a limited time, new customers can get $10 added to their balance. Just use code CASHAPP10 when you sign up, and—don’t forget this part—send at least $5 to a friend in the first two weeks. Terms apply. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. brand. For additional information, see the Bitcoin disclosures at cash.app/legal/podcast  

Resources Mentioned:

Natalie’s Book, The Freedom-Based Business Method: bit.ly/NE-TFBBM 

Natalie’s Website: natalie-ellis.com 

Natalie’s Instagram: instagram.com/iamnatalie  

Natalie’s Podcast, The Bossbabe Podcast: bit.ly/TBBP-apple 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Passive Income, Online Business, Solopreneur, Networking

The true engine of business growth is customer loyalty, and Fred Reichheld has spent decades proving it. While working at Bain & Company, he noticed that businesses with obsessive customer focus were crushing their competitors, yet no one was measuring the loyalty behind those results. So he created the Net Promoter Score (NPS), giving entrepreneurs a way to measure customer loyalty and retention. In this episode, Fred shares how companies like Costco, Apple, and Chick-fil-A create lasting loyalty and why enriching your customers’ lives is one of the most powerful drivers of business growth and endless referrals.

In this episode, Hala and Fred will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(00:37) Building An Intrapreneurial Career Path

(03:23) The Origin of Net Promoter Score

(10:35) The Three Types of NPS Customers

(13:47) How Love Drives Customer Loyalty

(20:02) Turning Customers Into Promoters

(23:20) Launching NPS as an Open-Source System

(31:31) Why Referrals Beat Paid Marketing

(39:35) The Philosophy of Winning on Purpose

(44:08) Fred’s Top Business Lessons 

Fred Reichheld is a business strategist, author, and fellow at Bain & Company. He is the creator of the Net Promoter System, a widely used management system for measuring customer loyalty and improving retention. Named the “high priest of customer loyalty” by The Economist, Fred has shaped how the world’s most successful companies, including Apple, Costco, and Lego, build and measure customer relationships. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Cash App - If you’ve been curious about bitcoin but haven’t made the jump yet, Cash App makes it easy. Sign up at⁠ https://click.cash.app/ui6m/qmgmlraz⁠

For a limited time, new customers can get $10 added to their balance. Just use code CASHAPP10 when you sign up, and—don’t forget this part—send at least $5 to a friend in the first two weeks. Terms apply. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. brand. For additional information, see the Bitcoin disclosures at cash.app/legal/podcast

Resources Mentioned:

Fred’s Book, Winning on Purpose: bit.ly/FR-WonP 

Fred’s Book, The Ultimate Question 2.0: bit.ly/UltimateQstn 

Fred’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fredreichheld  

Fred’s Website: bain.com/our-team/fred-reichheld/ 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Online Selling, Economics, E-commerce, Ecommerce, Negotiation, Prospecting, Persuasion, Inbound, Value Selling, Account Management, Sales Strategies, Scale, Scaling, Sales podcast

Starting a business from scratch is not the only path to entrepreneurship, and Alex Smereczniak learned that through franchising. After building and exiting his first franchise business, he saw how confusing, outdated, and commission-driven the franchise-buying process could be. Spotting those gaps led him to build Franzy, a data-driven marketplace that helps aspiring entrepreneurs buy franchises with more transparency. In part 1 of this How We Profit episode, Alex breaks down the realities of raising capital for an unsexy business, why franchising creates more millionaires than most people realize, how he sold 118 franchise locations in a year, and the lessons he learned from scaling.

In this episode, Hala and Alex will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(02:26) Franzy: The Zillow of Franchising 

(06:49) Why Franchising Creates More Millionaires

(12:30) Starting a Business vs Buying a Franchise

(16:08) Is Franchising Really Passive Income?

(19:09) Alex’s Franchising Journey

(35:13) Raising Millions for Unsexy Businesses

(39:24) Stepping Down as CEO: The Real Story

(45:42) The Cost of Starting Franzy

(56:10) Using Data to Create Entrepreneurs

(58:32) Franzy’s Revenue, Marketing, and Operations

Alex Smereczniak is the co-founder and CEO of Franzy, an AI-driven franchise discovery platform that helps aspiring business owners find and evaluate franchise opportunities. Before Franzy, he co-founded 2ULaundry and LaundroLab, a tech-enabled laundry delivery and laundromat franchise business. He has experience building marketplace businesses, raising venture capital, and scaling franchise systems. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Cash App - If you’ve been curious about bitcoin but haven’t made the jump yet, Cash App makes it easy. Sign up at https://click.cash.app/ui6m/qmgmlraz

For a limited time, new customers can get $10 added to their balance. Just use code CASHAPP10 when you sign up, and—don’t forget this part—send at least $5 to a friend in the first two weeks. Terms apply. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. brand. For additional information, see the Bitcoin disclosures at cash.app/legal/podcast

Resources Mentioned:

Alex’s Platform, Franzy: https://franzy.com/ 

Alex’s Instagram: instagram.com/alexfromfranzy/   

Alex’s Twitter: x.com/AlexfromFranzy  

Alex’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alex-smereczniak-40310329   

HWP with Alex Part 2 - https://youngandprofiting.co/HWP_E4  

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Disclaimer: This episode is a paid partnership with Franzy. Sponsored content helps support our podcast and continue bringing valuable insights to our audience.

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Online Business, Solopreneur, Networking

One leadership decision helped Will Guidara transform Eleven Madison Park from the lowest-ranked restaurant on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list into the number one restaurant in the world. While most businesses competed on products, pricing, and technology, Will became obsessed with something most companies overlook: how people feel. In this episode, Will shares his philosophy of unreasonable hospitality and reveals why customer experience is a powerful business advantage. He explains the leadership skills, strategic planning, and team-building principles that empower employees to create unforgettable moments and build the kind of customer loyalty that drives business growth. 

In this episode, Hala and Will will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(02:02) The Role of AI in the Hospitality Business

(05:07) Service vs. Hospitality: The Key Difference

(10:49) Going from Last Place to Number One

(14:55) Mapping Every Customer Touchpoint 

(21:58) Turning Transactions Into Unforgettable Experiences

(28:27) Balancing Excellence and Hospitality

(33:50) Building Team Culture With Shared Language

(37:48) Will’s Hospitality Catchphrases

(46:36) Scaling Hospitality Through Pattern Recognition

(54:31) How Leaders Can Empower Their Teams

(01:03:15) Turning Business Mistakes Into Loyalty

(01:08:03) Giving Feedback and Inspiring Teams

Will Guidara is a restaurateur, speaker, and bestselling author of Unreasonable Hospitality. As the former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, he helped lead the restaurant to three Michelin stars and the title of World’s Best Restaurant. His work has since redefined hospitality as a core leadership and business strategy across industries. Will is also a co-producer on the Emmy Award-winning series The Bear. 

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Cash App - If you’ve been curious about bitcoin but haven’t made the jump yet, Cash App makes it easy. Sign up at https://click.cash.app/ui6m/qmgmlraz

For a limited time, new customers can get $10 added to their balance. Just use code CASHAPP10 when you sign up, and—don’t forget this part—send at least $5 to a friend in the first two weeks. Terms apply. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. brand. For additional information, see the Bitcoin disclosures at cash.app/legal/podcast  

Resources Mentioned:

Will’s Book, Unreasonable Hospitality: bit.ly/WG-UHosp  

Will’s Book, The Field Guide: bit.ly/WG-FieldGuide 

Will’s Website: unreasonablehospitality.com

Will’s Instagram: instagram.com/wguidara/ 

Will’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/willguidara/ 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Networking, Goal Setting, Time Management, Problem Solving, Decision Making

Steven Kotler once believed physical and mental health decline was an inevitable part of aging, until peak performance science challenged his assumption. To test the research, he learned to park ski at 53 and discovered that the right training and mindset can dramatically improve brain health, creativity, and performance well beyond midlife. In this episode, Steven unpacks the science behind  cognitive decline and shares how entrepreneurs can stay sharp, motivated, and high-performing at any age. 

In this episode, Hala and Steven will discuss: 

(00:00) Introduction

(01:11) The Myth of Aging Decline

(07:08) How Movement Keeps You Sharp

(14:26) Breaking the “Too Old” Mindset

(22:39) Letting Go of Old Shame

(29:26) Protecting Brain Performance After 40

(37:12) How Age Improves Thinking

(42:03) What to Look for After 50

(44:58) Why You Should Never Skip Leg Day

(46:57) How Authentic Learning Boosts Motivation

(52:00) Skills Older People Are Actually Better At

(54:32) Blue Zones and Healthy Aging 

Steven Kotler is a bestselling author, award-winning journalist, and one of the world’s leading experts on human performance. He is the founder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective, where he studies the neurobiology of flow, creativity, and peak performance. His work has been nominated for two Pulitzer Prizes, translated into over 40 languages, and has helped people understand how to train their brains and bodies to perform at their best at any age.

Sponsored By:

Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting

Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.

Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting

Remitly - Transfer money internationally across 100+ currencies with no hidden fees. Download the Remitly app or visit remitly.com to get started. Use code BUSINESS to get a $100 bonus after you send $300 or more. New customers only.

Prolon - Reset your body with Prolon’s five-day plant-based program. Go to ProlonLife.com/PROFITING for 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program.

Northwest Registered Agent - Get a complete business identity with Northwest. Visit northwestregisteredagent.com/YAPFree and start using free resources to build something amazing. 

Cash App - If you’ve been curious about bitcoin but haven’t made the jump yet, Cash App makes it easy. Sign up at https://click.cash.app/ui6m/qmgmlraz

For a limited time, new customers can get $10 added to their balance. Just use code CASHAPP10 when you sign up, and—don’t forget this part—send at least $5 to a friend in the first two weeks. Terms apply. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. brand. For additional information, see the Bitcoin disclosures at cash.app/legal/podcast 

Resources Mentioned:

Steven's Website: stevenkotler.com 

Steven's Book, Gnar Country: bit.ly/SK-GnarC 

Flow Research Collective: flowresearchcollective.com  

Successful Aging by Daniel Levitin: bit.ly/DL-SuccessAging 

YAP E138 with Steven Kotler: youngandprofiting.co/E138 

YAP E32 with Steven Kotler: youngandprofiting.co/E32 

Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals 

Key YAP Links

Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap

YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting

Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter 

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/

Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/

Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com

Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new 

Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Biohacking, Manifestation, Life Balance, Self-Healing, Positivity, Happiness, Sleep, Diet