Elevation Nation

Elevator no. 227: Uri Pearl is the founder and president of Nealon Holdings Inc., a holding company that owns and operates a growing home-services business, Nealon Insulation. As a former special forces soldier, Uri brings a disciplined, long-term mindset to both his entrepreneurial ventures and his value investing philosophy.In this podcast: We break down the three M's of "Authentic Intelligence" (AI): Mindset, Messages, and Moments. Uri shares how a strong, fortified mindset, developed in the military and applied in business, is critical for growth, how you communicate effectively, and where to inject your authentic self into your daily life to truly create value.

This week, we're talking about the best investment you can make: you. Parker and Sam dive into the shifts they’ve made this year, from optimizing sleep and starting new solo adventures to embracing new hobbies like basketball and holistic healing.

Elevator 226: Alex Servetnick is the Head of Commercial Strategy at Stakt, the female-founded wellness brand creating innovative fitness equipment that inspires movement. After nearly a decade in Corporate America across UBS and Anheuser-Busch, he left his senior role to join his wife, Taylor, and her co-founder, Millie, helping scale Stakt toward ten million dollars in revenue in under two years.In this podcast: Alex opens up about the mindset shift required to walk away from corporate stability, what it’s really like building a company with your spouse and best friend, and how communication keeps both the relationship and the business moving forward. We talk about brand building, managing stress in a fast-growing startup, and the mental motto that keeps him grounded.

Parker and Sam are thankful for many things as Thanksgiving approaches.

Elevator 225: Raz Malas is the CEO and Co-founder of Talent Hackers, an offshore staffing company helping US businesses hire top global talent at scale. He has built two multi-million dollar businesses across E-commerce and Staffing, blending sharp execution with an unconventional mindset toward education and career growth.In this podcast: Raz breaks down how he built companies from the ground up, why remote talent is the future, and how his view of college shaped his entrepreneurial path. He shares honest lessons on partnerships, scaling, and the mindset behind his motto “make it happen.”01:28Raz Malas: The Entrepreneurial Journey03:11The Impact of Family on Entrepreneurship05:51Navigating College with a Different Mindset10:48Rethinking the Purpose of College15:33The Changing Landscape of Employment18:11Building a Remote Business22:03Scaling Talent Hackers25:42The Importance of Partnership in Business29:06Rapid Fire Questions

Parker turns 30 and shares 30 insightful thoughts, reflecting on personal growth and life lessons. The guys explore the wisdom gained over the years in a memorable Fortitude in 15.

Elevator no. 224: Renee Fluker is the Founder and CEO of Midnight Golf, a nonprofit she launched in 2001 that blends life-skills training with the game of golf to help Detroit students get to and through college. Known as Ms. Renee to her kids, she has helped more than 3,000 young people pursue higher education by using golf as a vehicle for discipline, confidence, relationship-building, and opportunity. She has become a pillar of Southeast Michigan through her mentorship, her leadership, and her unwavering belief that every young person deserves a real shot at success.In this conversation, Ms. Renee shares how she built Midnight Golf from scratch, the sacrifices behind its growth, and the impact she sees every day in her students. We talk about giving back, building community, and what it really takes to change a young person’s life.Chapters01:20The Birth of a Vision: Renee's Journey04:13Life Skills Beyond Golf: Curriculum Overview12:12Challenges and Triumphs: Renee's Resilience17:51Creating an Authentic Environment24:54Success Stories: Impact of Midnight Golf29:35Empowering the Next Generation31:09Building a Legacy of Support38:43The Importance of Grit and Determination41:31Rapid Fire44:50Call to Action for Support

Sam just got back from LA, where he attended a wellness event before heading to San Diego for some much-needed solo travel. Parker’s fresh off celebrating his sister Colby’s wedding, but both have been hit with major travel chaos. They reflect on the madness of flying, slowing down, and the importance of being fully present in real spaces with real people.

Sam and Parker use ChatGPT to play a rapid-fire game — asking each other deep, heartfelt, and hilarious questions.

Sam and Parker spent last week in Asheville, NC at a camp staffing conference called Camp Collab. Last year, they were just participants and presented about mental fortitude. This year, they took on a new role as Head Counselors acting as the MC's for the entire event.

Elevator 223: Alex Feinberg is a former professional athlete who went on to work at a global macro hedge fund, then Google, before launching his own business. Today, he’s a high performance specialist who helps elite men optimize their mindset, health, and purpose so they can perform at their best—without burning out.In this conversation, Alex shares how his experiences across sports, finance, and tech shaped his perspective on success. He opens up about fulfillment beyond money, the balance between ego and humility, and why vulnerability and recovery are just as important as discipline and drive.Chapters02:57The Journey of a High Performer05:50The Importance of Mentorship and Learning09:00Finding Fulfillment Beyond Corporate Success11:40The Role of Money and Success14:57Understanding the Drive for More17:29The Balance of Mindset and Performance20:31The Interplay of Mind and Body23:22Fitness and Financial Success26:29Introspection and Personal Growth29:30Vulnerability and Authenticity in Men32:16Rapid Fire Questions and Mental Motto

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