Elevation Nation

Parker and Sam unpack how AI is rewriting creativity from songs that sound too good to be real to social feeds that feel eerily empty. They explore what happens when everything becomes personalized, polished, and fake and why authenticity might just be the rebellion of the future.

Elevator 221 & 222: Kyle Nelson and Eli Libby are the co-founders of Solo Retreat Co., a company helping people find clarity, peace, and purpose through structured solo retreats. After years of chasing business success, they each faced personal hardships, from a house fire to loss and burnout that inspired them to slow down and rebuild with intention.In this conversation, Kyle and Eli share how their experiences led to the creation of Solo Retreat Co. and their book The Art of a Solo Retreat. They open up about the fear of solitude, the power of stillness, and why sometimes stepping away from everything is the only way to move forward.

After 429 episodes and more than 225 guests, Parker and Sam celebrate the five-year anniversary of Elevation Nation.

Elevator 220: Matt Goldbloom is the founder of Common Shelf, a company focused on helping brands grow through retail partnerships and strategy. With a background in scaling beauty, wellness, and pet brands, Matt has worked with national retailers and built strong relationships across the industry.In this podcast: Matt talks about his path to entrepreneurship, the lessons he’s learned from failures, and the mindset that keeps him moving forward. He also shares why relationships matter more than revenue and how playing the long game shapes the way he builds his business.Chapters04:52The Journey to Common Shelf12:02Defining Success and Relationships14:37Navigating Wounds and Challenges21:34Reflections on Personal Growth24:19Embracing Uniqueness and Innovation30:06The Purpose Behind Common Shelf

Parker and Sam kick off the Jewish New Year with reflections on family, tradition, and the quirky nostalgia that comes with fall. They talk about the meditative side of going to temple, the beauty in life’s mix of highs and lows, and why perspective and mindfulness help make the year ahead a little brighter.

Parker and Sam discuss the phenomenon of 'Sunday Scaries' among Gen Z, exploring how anxiety related to work impacts mental health. The discussion highlights the generational shift in attitudes towards work and the significance of finding purpose in one's job.03:06The Rise of Sunday Scaries05:50Understanding the Impact of Job Anxiety08:25Navigating Career Choices and Mental Health11:09Strategies for Managing Sunday Scaries

Elevator no. 219: Igor Vainshtein is a serial entrepreneur and keynote speaker whose journey from young immigrant to business leader is marked by resilience, reinvention, and perspective. His career reflects both the highs of building companies and the lows of personal tragedy, shaping his outlook on what true success means.In this Podcast:Igor opens up about redefining success beyond wealth, why authenticity matters more than ever, and how tragedy clarified his values. He shares his perspective on AI’s role in creativity, the importance of risk-taking, and why his mental motto, “Success is inevitable,” guides both his business and his life.01:42Igor's Entrepreneurial Journey05:55Redefining Success11:41The Pursuit of Happiness18:28Authenticity in Life and Business24:27The Role of AI in Authenticity27:16Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Parker interviews Sam as he just turned 30! Sam share wins, wounds, and quirks from his 20s touching on family, authenticity, and the role of mental fortitude in navigating life’s inevitable challenges.

Elevator 218: Julia Resnick is a Senior Psychotherapist at Be You Psychotherapy. Specializing in anxiety, OCD, and chronic illness, she draws on her own experiences to connect with clients in their 20s and 30s through empathy, humor, and authenticity.In this podcast:Julia shares her journey into therapy, the importance of building trust, and how routines and flexibility support mental health. She talks about the role of AI in therapy, the challenge of overwhelming mental health statistics, and why creating hope and embracing vulnerability are essential for growth.

Parker and Sam break down which skills will matter most in 2030 as AI and technology reshape the workforce. They reflect on why creativity, resilience, and interpersonal connection are becoming more valuable than technical expertise and how education needs to evolve to keep up.

Elevator no. 216: Christy Bowie is a CPA and financial consultant who left the Big Four to build her own firm helping entrepreneurs take control of their tax and financial planning. She combines her corporate experience with a proactive approach to guide small business owners in using their business as a tool to build the life they want.In this Podcast: Christy opens up about authenticity in client relationships, the challenges of imposter syndrome, and why flexibility matters in building a dream life. We talk about lessons from corporate America, the role of AI in decision-making, and how entrepreneurs can balance growth with personal fulfillment.Chapters02:51Lessons from the Big Four: Work Ethic and Skills06:06The Importance of Authentic Relationships in Business08:52Target Audience: Service-Based Entrepreneurs12:06Leveraging AI vs. Authentic Intelligence15:02Navigating Entrepreneurship: Challenges and Imposter Syndrome17:54Building a Business: From Clients to Operations20:53The Dream Life: Balancing Work and Personal Goals26:41Finding Fulfillment Beyond Business30:51Redefining Success and Enough

Sam and Parker look back on their week at Experience Camps, a place where kids facing loss find healing through community, nature, and connection. They share stories from camp, the power of activities like the carnival and talent show, and the emotional weight of the community that brings people together to reflect and grow.https://experiencecamps.org/

Parker and Sam reflect on their upcoming return to Experience Camps, a nonprofit supporting kids who have lost a loved one. They open up about their own experiences with grief, why authenticity matters in building connections, and how community and mentorship at camp create space for healing and growth, for the campers and for themselves.Experience Camps Website

Elevator no. 217: Shane Riggs is an entrepreneur who went from sales and culinary arts to founding a successful virtual assistant company. His mission is to create financial freedom not just for himself, but also for his family and employees, while fostering authentic connections and innovation.In this Podcast: Shane shares how resilience and adaptability shaped his journey across industries, ultimately leading him to the virtual assistant space. We talk about work ethic, the importance of time and freedom, and how success is measured by the impact you have on others, not just your bank account.

Parker and Sam get real about a trend in corporate America right now. They talk anxiety, imposter syndrome, job security, and how showing up as your authentic self can be your biggest advantage. The conversation touches on why multiple income streams matter and what the future of work might look like for all of us.

Elevator no. 215: Griffin Toren is the founder and CEO of Killa Dinks, a fast-growing pickleball and padel paddle company creating custom products for brands like Apple, Poppi, and the Miami Marlins. He started the company while still an undergrad at the University of Miami, turning a side hustle into a full-fledged business before graduation.Inside this Podcast:Griffin reflects on the pressure of building a company as a student, the mindset required to grow fast without burning out, and how relationships and customer service have been his biggest assets. We talk about the rise of pickleball, the beauty of learning on the fly, and what’s next for Killa Dinks.Chapters02:32The Rise of Pickleball and Its Appeal04:58Building a Brand in a Competitive Market07:39Balancing College Life and Entrepreneurship10:45The Drive Beyond Financial Gain12:41The Elevator Mindset: A Blessing or a Curse?20:55Lessons from the Journey of Entrepreneurship25:48The Importance of Customer Service29:24Balancing Business and Personal Relationships33:45The Future of Killa Dinks and Growth Mindset

AI is reshaping what early careers look like and many traditional paths just aren’t cutting it anymore. Parker and Sam break down why emotional intelligence, people skills, and creative thinking matter more than ever in a world where machines can do the rest.

This week, Parker and Sam unpack a powerful comment from world #1 golfer Scottie Scheffler, who admitted that golf, despite all his wins, isn’t the most fulfilling part of his life. They reflect on the difference between success and meaning, and why even at the top, the grind can still feel empty.

Elevator no. 214: Dane Johnson is the CEO and Founder of Crohn’s Colitis Lifestyle, the world’s leading consulting firm for natural IBD healing. Once a successful model and actor in LA, Dane’s life was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with severe Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis, nearly dying before taking his health into his own hands. Today, he’s a board-certified functional nutritionist who has helped thousands around the world heal naturally and reclaim their lives.Inside this Podcast: Dane opens up about the lowest point in his life and the mindset shift that saved it. We talk about the power of personal accountability, the failures of traditional medicine, and how real healing requires vulnerability, discipline, and belief.

Parker and Sam unpack what it really means to be a baller. Financial freedom. Owning your time. Building real connections. They share takeaways from Scott Galloway’s perspective on content, personal branding, and why traditional interviews are broken.01:56Creating Diverse Content: Lessons from Scott Galloway05:17Defining a 'Baller' Life: Financial Freedom and Time11:09The Value of Interviews: Referrals vs. Traditional Hiring

Parker and Sam return after a much-needed break to reflect on time with family, lessons learned, and the importance of slowing down to speed up. They dive into the highs and lows of building Elevation Nation, from navigating social media to prepping for new speaking gigs.02:45Reflecting on the Past and Future05:30Excitement for New Opportunities08:09Navigating Social Media Challenges11:18Looking Ahead with Optimism

Elevator 212: Peter Flores is the founder of Juan, Please, a bold new beverage company born from a blend of corporate insight, cultural roots, and entrepreneurial grit. With a background spanning hospitality, media, and alcohol partnerships at VICE, Peter saw a white space in the ready-to-drink market and built a brand designed to stand out.In this conversation, Peter shares his journey from NYU to entrepreneurship, the importance of adaptability, and the mindset that guides him. He dives into team dynamics, marketing strategy, and how embracing discomfort has helped Juan, Please grow in one of the most competitive industries out there.01:58The Meandering Path to Entrepreneurship11:46Corporate Experience and Its Impact18:55The Birth of Juan Please Drink Company25:08The Joy of Mentorship and Team Dynamics30:55Milestones and Growth in Business33:42Navigating Competition and Market Positioning38:34The Importance of Adaptability and Learning43:31Peter's Mental Motto

Parker and Sam unpack why obsessing over long-term plans can actually hold you back. They share how focusing on short-term action, just five days at a time, can lead to more momentum, clarity, and confidence.03:45Living by Values vs. Future Planning11:31Finding Balance Between Long-Term and Short-Term15:02Embracing Uncertainty and Flexibility

Elevator 211: Jenna Pereira is the founder of JP Social and a self-proclaimed professional hype girl who helps creators and entrepreneurs show up online with confidence and purpose. From her early days freelancing on Upwork to building a boutique agency during COVID, Jenna’s story is all about entrepreneurship, authenticity, and building a business that supports your dream life.In this episode, Jenna joins Parker and Sam to talk about what it means to post with intention, why social media is a new kind of currency, and how to embrace the messiness of content creation. 07:05The Evolution of JP Social and Entrepreneurial Spirit14:58Social Media Strategy and Its Importance24:01Authenticity in Social Media and Building Connections27:00The Journey of Content Creation33:57The Evolution of Personal Branding35:49Mindfulness and Grounding Practices40:59Book Recommendations42:49Jenna's Mental Motto

Camp isn’t just fun and games, it’s a mindset reset. In this episode, Parker and Sam break highlight the first leg of their Elevate Camp Tour at Lake of the Woods and Greenwoods Camps and discuss why summer camp is the perfect space for reflection, leadership, and personal growth. They explore how nature, disconnection, and service create the clarity young people crave.

Elevator 210: Joe Vogel is a member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing the 17th district, which includes Gaithersburg and Rockville. As a young immigrant and one of Maryland’s rising political voices, Joe shares how his family’s history, values, and challenges shaped his mission to serve in public office.In this conversation, Joe opens up about his path to public office, the pressure of representing his generation, and the mental fortitude it takes to lead with conviction. From navigating campaign stress to finding his voice on the House floor, Joe reminds us that resilience, support, and perspective are powerful tools for impact.02:08Joe's Journey: From Immigrant to Legislator05:49The Impact of Family History on Public Service09:49Deciding to Run: The 'Oh Sh*t' Moment14:01Navigating Young Adulthood and Career Choices17:48A Day in the Life of a Delegate23:58Imposter Syndrome in Politics25:50The Power and Responsibility of Young Legislators34:46Navigating Political Tensions and Personal Beliefs40:59The Human Side of Politics: Balancing Personal and Public Life48:56Joe's Mental Motto

Why does every decision feel so intense? In this episode, Parker and Sam unpack the pressure of decision-making in adulthood from anxiety and overthinking to the fear of regret. They explore why commitment matters more than certainty, and how learning through action, not perfection, leads to real personal growth.

Elevator 209: Jessie Yaffe is a certified holistic health and mindset coach who helps others reconnect with themselves through mindfulness, emotional healing, and inner child work. After navigating chronic stress and inspired by her sister’s cancer journey, Jessie found purpose in guiding others toward self-worth and sustainable well-being.In this episode, Jessie opens up about the importance of vulnerability, managing energy in chaotic environments, and how community can be a tool for healing. She dives into the philosophies behind her practice, shares her personal growth journey, and reminds us all not to take life too seriously.

Amid rising antisemitism and growing tension around the world, Parker and Sam reflect on what it means to be proudly and visibly Jewish in a time that often feels unsafe. They open up about the tension between fear and identity, and why now more than ever, silence isn’t an option.Disclaimer: This episode is a personal reflection on Jewish identity and safety in America today. It does not represent a political position on the conflict in the Middle East.

Elevator No. 208: Libby Amber Shayo is a content creator, storyteller, and comedic voice known for her viral portrayals of Jewish mothers and her unique ability to blend humor with cultural insight. What began as a pandemic-era TikTok video has turned into a full-time career working with global brands, helping others share their stories authentically and proudly.Libby opens up about navigating online hate, embracing Jewish identity in a polarized world, and the mental fortitude it takes to keep showing up. She shares how her content has evolved, the role of food and community in cultural storytelling, and why consistency, authenticity, and pride are her pillars for growth on and off the screen.Chapters04:02The Journey of a Content Creator08:08Mindset and Mental Fortitude11:58Evolving Vision and Authenticity18:03Navigating Challenges as a Jewish Creator24:01Community and Support in Jewish Identity25:32The Impact of October 7th on Jewish Conversations27:15Growing Confidence in Identity and Content Creation28:24Rapid Fire34:32Mental Motto: Consistency and Showing Up

Parker and Sam celebrate 400 episodes of Elevation Nation by reflecting on the podcast’s impact and how it’s fueled their personal growth. Then they explore the rise of AI therapy tools like ChatGPT and how young adults are turning to technology for emotional support. The conversation unpacks the power of introspection, the limits of AI in mental health, and the ongoing journey of building emotional intelligence.

Elevator No. 206: Jack Adler is a young entrepreneur and founder of Out2Win, an athlete marketing tech company using AI to help brands, universities, and agencies streamline athlete partnerships. While still at Syracuse, Jack launched the company from a fraternity house, balancing campus life with building a business and dropping out of a master’s program to go all in.Jack opens up about navigating the world of NIL, the influence of mentorship, and the lessons he’s learned from both success and failure. The conversation explores the philosophy of entrepreneurship, the realities of building a tech company as a student, and what it means to stay level-headed while playing the infinite game of business.Jack's Entrepreneurial Journey Begins05:55Navigating NIL and Building a Business08:48The Role of Mentorship in Entrepreneurship12:07The Challenges of Building a Tech Company20:59The Mission Behind Out2Win23:57Future Plans and Aspirations26:19Embracing Entrepreneurship in College29:07The Journey of Building a Business33:49Staying Level-Headed in Business43:03

Parker and Sam break down why now is the best time to be a young creator or entrepreneur. With more tools, platforms, and demand for authenticity than ever before, they explore how anyone can start building something meaningful, no permission required. If you've been sitting on an idea, this is your sign to make your move.

Elevator No. 205: Matt Williams is a testament to resilience and reinvention. After a life-changing moment in 2010, he embraced sobriety and began rebuilding from the inside out, eventually founding FROPRO, a snack bar company rooted in second chances and healthy living.Matt shares how vulnerability, introspection, and consistency became the pillars of both his personal growth and his business journey. He opens up about the highs and lows of recovery, redefining success, and why effort matters more than outcomes. Get 25% off your first FroPro purchase with our Elevation Nation code: ELEVATE25Chapters08:23The Meaning Behind FroPro: A Second Chance17:21Introspection: Finding Clarity in Solitude30:42Quality of Life: Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Well-being33:59Vulnerability and Authenticity in Recovery39:09Defining Success and the Desire for More45:23Future Aspirations for FroPro47:40Living Life to the Fullest48:30

Young people today have more access, flexibility, and tools than any generation before, so why do so many of us feel stuck? Parker and Sam break down findings from a massive global study showing that 18–29-year-olds, especially in the U.S., are struggling most to feel fulfilled.

Elevator No. 207: Kayla Schreibstein is a seasoned tech sales pro turned community-builder, storyteller, and host of the podcast Friends of Kayla. Beyond her 9 to 5, she’s redefining success through intimate Shabbat dinners, cultural conversations, and passion projects that center around identity and connection.In this conversation, Kayla shares how embracing her Jewish identity and protecting her peace led to deeper purpose. She opens up about navigating side hustles, setting boundaries, and creating spaces for authenticity, reminding us that fulfillment doesn’t come from doing it all, it comes from doing what matters most.Chapters02:41The Journey of Side Hustles06:27The Impact of Networking and Influencers12:50The Birth of Friends of Kayla18:20Embracing Identity and Purpose23:14Defining Success in Podcasting25:54Cultural Exchange Through Shabbat Dinners28:20The Importance of Welcoming Judaism30:39Challenging Anti-Semitism and Embracing Identity33:42Future Aspirations for Friends of Kayla36:37Rapid Fire Questions and Kayla's Mental Motto

Parker and Sam unpack the reality of loneliness in today’s hyper-connected world. They share personal experiences and coping strategies, emphasizing that feeling isolated doesn’t mean something is wrong with you...it’s part of being human.

Elevator No. 204: Richie Frieman is a best-selling author, illustrator, entrepreneur, and former professional wrestler dubbed a "Modern-Day Renaissance Man." His latest memoir, The Optimistics, highlights powerful love stories within the dementia community and showcases his lifelong commitment to resilience and creativity.In this conversation, Richie shares how trying, failing, and leading with vulnerability have shaped his life, from the wrestling ring to the writing desk. Parker and Sam talk with Richie about lessons on mental fortitude, storytelling, battling stigma, and why building meaningful human connections is more important now than ever.03:01The Journey of a Professional Trier06:14The Art of Trying: Overcoming Challenges09:08Writing for Purpose: Balancing Art and Business11:48The Impact of Alzheimer's: Personal Stories and Insights28:24Embracing Vulnerability and Real Conversations30:29The Importance of Mental Fortitude40:54Food and Community in Baltimore41:52Book Recommendations and Inspirations44:25Richie's Mental Motto

Sam and Parker unpack a feeling many of us struggle to name. When everything is technically fine but something still feels off. From job dissatisfaction to global chaos bleeding into our daily routines, they explore how comfort can quietly convince us to play small.00:00Introduction and Celebration Plans01:20Feeling Stuck at 3005:08Exploring Community and Fulfillment10:46The Search for New Opportunities12:32Elevator Shoutouts

Elevator no. 114: Orly Israel returns to Elevation Nation three years after his first appearance with a powerful story of loss, resilience, and renewal. After losing his home in the California Palisades fires earlier this year, Orly reflects on the importance of human connection, vulnerability, and his commitment to social fitness through his Listening Table Project.03:12The Listening Table Project and Social Fitness05:55The Impact of Loneliness on Society12:08The California Fires16:10A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes24:02The Power of Connection and Community34:09The Power of Humor in Difficult Times39:15Improving Communication Skills49:11Lessons from Listening: A Transformative Experience01:03:51Social Fitness: Enhancing Relationships Through Listening

Parker and Sam dive into Simon Sinek’s concept of the infinite game and why success isn’t about winning—it’s about staying in the game. They reflect on how this mindset shift has impacted their journey with Elevation Nation and why chasing short-term wins can distract you from long-term purpose.

Elevator no. 202: Trevon Gross Jr. is a leadership coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Craft Your Dream, an organization helping ambitious dreamers turn their goals into reality. He shares his journey from college athlete to coach, opening up about early challenges, the emotional toll of entrepreneurship, and the mindset it takes to lead with clarity and resilience.00:00Introduction to Trev Gross Jr.02:26Craft Your Dream: Mission and Vision10:52Leadership Lessons from Sports14:50Helping Clients Find Clarity20:20The Stack Method for Success30:00The Power of Team Building in Entrepreneurship34:56The Importance of Mental Fortitude in Business44:59Trevon's Mental Motto

After welcoming a ton new people to Elevation Nation the past month, Parker and Sam reintroduce themselves and share the origin story of Elevation Nation. From post-grad confusion to building a community centered on mental fortitude, they reflect on how it all began and why they’re still just getting started.

Elevator no. 201: Bradford Jacobs is the founder of The Modern Gentleman, a men’s mental health and lifestyle magazine reshaping how we talk about vulnerability, style, and personal growth. Bradford's own personal experience and challenges with mental health shaped the vision behind the magazine. In this episode, Parker, Sam and Bradford explore the intersection of fashion and emotional well-being, and the mission to create a space where men feel seen, heard, and supported.

Parker and Sam explore how fear can be a powerful trigger for growth and personal development. From public speaking nerves to stepping into the boxing ring, they share their experience with facing fear head-on.

Elevator No. 200: Jimmy Gavin is a former professional basketball player who earned an NCAA scholarship at 23 after never playing a minute of high school ball. His story is shaped by living with Crohn’s disease, the loss of his younger brother, and years of mental health struggles.Through therapy, self-reflection, and an unshakable mindset, Jimmy found healing, reclaimed his passion for basketball, and built a seven-year pro career. He shares lessons in resilience, emotional growth, and the importance of expressing vulnerability both on and off the court. Now, he's working on The Den Collective, the first NIL fund for Wisconsin-Parkside athletics.00:00Introduction to Jimmy Gavin's Journey02:21Early Life and the Impact of Sports04:02Health Challenges and Diagnosis of Crohn's Disease17:09Transition to College and Family Tragedy23:47Mental Health and Seeking Help30:32The Power of Questions in Personal Growth34:00The Journey to Becoming a College Basketball Player43:48Transitioning from College to Professional Basketball49:53The Importance of Mindset and Gratitude54:47Preparing for Life Beyond Basketball

Parker and Sam break down the hard truth—no one is coming to hand you success. They discuss the difference between structured career paths and the chaos of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of taking action. If you’ve been waiting for permission, this is your sign to stop and start creating your own opportunities.

Elevator No. 202: Keegan O'Connor is the co-founder and CEO of Chill Shark, an innovative company transforming bathtubs into cold plunges to make cold water therapy more accessible. With a passion for mental health and a mission to help those struggling with PTSD, Keegan’s journey is fueled by personal experiences, resilience, and a drive to build something meaningful.In this episode, Keegan shares the challenges of launching a product, the importance of team dynamics, and how vulnerability plays a role in both business and personal growth. Chillshark went live on Kickstarter on March 18 and is now fully launched to the public.

Parker and Sam dive into the reality of uncertainty in entrepreneurship, personal growth, and success. No one really knows what they’re doing, but that’s where the magic happens. They explore how learning by doing, taking small bets, and seeking mentorship can turn uncertainty into an advantage.

Elevator No. 199: Michael Bluestone is the Founder & CEO of Bluestone Travel, an Independent Travel Advisor at FROSCH (a CHASE Company), and a member of the Chase Travel Group Advisory Board, representing 600+ travel advisors nationwide. Before launching Bluestone Travel, he spent his 20s leading luxury adventure trips across 70+ countries, curating unforgettable experiences in destinations like Patagonia, the Dolomites, and South Africa.In this episode, Michael shares how travel builds resilience, shifts perspectives, and fosters personal growth. From navigating unfamiliar cultures to designing one-of-a-kind itineraries, he reflects on the lessons learned from a life spent exploring the world.