Elevation Nation

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.

Society loves success but shames effort—why? Parker and Sam break down the weird stigma around trying hard, why it’s actually a superpower, and how putting in the work leads to authenticity, growth, and real success. They also highlight Brett Dashevsky, an elevator, who’s proving that effort is cool again.00:00Feedback on New Podcast Structure01:48The Hot Take: Trying Too Hard is Cool06:00The Difference Between Hard Work in Careers vs. Social Skills10:13Personal Experiences Shaping Perspectives on Effort13:31Elevator Shoutout: Brett Dashevsky Mentality

Elevator No. 198: Shirah Benarde is the co-founder and CEO of NightCap, a Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, and a Shark Tank-backed founder. She created NightCap—a drink spiking prevention company—at just 16, after learning how easily unattended drinks could be spiked. Her first prototype, made from a scrunchie and her mom’s stockings, turned into a globally recognized product that has sold over 700,000 units in 40+ countries, partnered with 160 universities, and is helping push for stronger drink safety laws.In this episode, Shirah shares how taking risks, embracing discomfort, and leveraging social media helped her turn an idea into a global movement.00:00Navigating Family Dynamics in Business07:11The Journey of Entrepreneurship from a Young Age12:45The Decision to Drop Out of College15:36Understanding the Red Zone and Its Impact18:49Leveraging TikTok for Awareness and Growth23:05Personal Growth and the Challenges of Young Adulthood29:03Memorable Moments from Shark Tank36:33Mental Motto: Embracing Discomfort for Growth

Some days are smooth—until they’re not. Parker and Sam break down how they handle challenges that come out of nowhere.Elevator shoutouts: Founder of LTM Laura Ter Meer and NHL creator and journalist Jonny Lazarus

Elevator No. 196: Lucy Nelles is a community-building expert, co-founder of Coffee & Chill Miami and the Community Building Collective. She’s hosted over 15,000 guests, generated over $500K in revenue, and built spaces where real connections thrive. In this episode, Lucy shares her journey from a 9-to-5 to entrepreneurship, the mindset shifts needed to take the leap, the power of intentional networking, and how to create great events, navigate community dynamics, and embrace discomfort for growth.03:08Creating Unique Experiences in Miami06:10The Importance of Connection and Networking09:12The Leap of Faith: Quitting the 9 to 515:14Designing Memorable Events18:09Handling Community Dynamics20:47Mindset and Overcoming Challenges23:58The Role of Co-Founders in Entrepreneurship27:01Rapid Fire30:00Lucy's Mental Motto

Parker and Sam are throwing down in a LinkedIn showdown—who can grow faster? They celebrate podcast milestones, share storytelling secrets, and break down why content creation takes mental fortitude.00:00Celebrating Milestones and Future Goals02:59LinkedIn Competition: A New Challenge06:10The Art of Storytelling and Content Creation09:07Engaging with the Community and Sharing Wisdom11:47Elevator Shoutouts and Community Events

Elevator No. 196 – Jarrett Birnbaum is a photographer and videographer who recently took the leap into full-time freelance work, turning his childhood passion into a thriving career. With a talent for capturing raw, emotional moments, Jarrett uses his craft to tell meaningful stories that often go unnoticed.In this episode, Sam and Parker talk with Jarrett about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of resilience, and the mindset needed to turn passion into a profession.Chapters00:00Introduction to Elevation Nation and Jarrett's Journey06:00The Transition to Full-Time Freelance11:54The Challenges of Entrepreneurship and Creative Pursuits17:53Navigating the Modern World: The Role of Difficulty in Growth25:13Building Resilience Through Challenges33:47The Role of Support Systems in Entrepreneurship43:27Jarrett's Mental Motto

Change is inevitable, but how we navigate it defines us. In this episode, Sam and Parker explore the emotional complexities of change, the balance between control and surrender, and why embracing uncertainty is key to growth.

Elevator No. 195: Christian Mortensen is a transformational life coach and Wim Hof breath-work instructor, guiding people through identity shifts and personal growth. Parker and Sam dive into the power of reframing negative experiences, self-talk, and mindfulness to unlock potential. They explore the science behind positive energy, sleep optimization, and how belief systems shape reality.

Parker and Sam dive into the difference between being busy and feeling overwhelmed, exploring how genuine conversations, mindfulness, and teamwork play a role in finding balance.

Elevator no. 194: Travis Stoliker is the VP of Marketing for Scribe Media and an entrepreneur with experience across multiple industries. His journey has taken him from driving for Uber to running a restaurant and a publishing company, all while exploring the impact of mindset and mental fortitude. He shares how financial success didn’t guarantee fulfillment, how personal loss forced him to rethink his path, and how taking action helped him regain purpose. Through it all, Travis emphasizes the importance of connection, resilience, and breaking routines to strengthen mental well-being.

Parker and Sam explore the book Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means, breaking down how metabolism, nutrition, and inflammation shape overall health. They discuss the impact of processed foods and seed oils while highlighting simple changes that can make a big difference. With personal insights and practical takeaways, this episode offers a fresh perspective on better eating and long-term well-being.

Elevator no. 193: Emilie Sobel is the founder of Emilie Sobel Media, a marketing agency specializing in influencers, events, and creative consulting for PR agencies and consumer-focused brands. Alongside running her agency, she works as a content creator and influencer, focusing on beauty, lifestyle, and travel. Emilie graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design in 2014 and brings her creative expertise to every project. Based in Miami Beach, she balances her professional work with a passion for connection and innovation.

Parker and Sam dive into the challenges of winter, exploring how the cold and darkness can trigger boredom and anxiety. They discuss the value of mindfulness and embracing boredom, while questioning how constant stimulation affects our ability to relax. The episode wraps up with shoutouts to elevators making an impact in the real world.

Elevator no. 191: Sophia (Phia) Gladieux is a Penn State University Field Hockey alumna who has achieved a multitude of accolades and awards. Phia recently had the honor and privilege of competing in the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris. Outside of sports, Phia has used her platform to speak about the truths of anxiety and burnout as a high-level athlete. She hopes to help inspire the next generation of male and female athletes of all ages.

Parker and Sam reflect on their personal experiences and reflections after attending the Discover EY conference in Atlanta. They share insights on the energy and professionalism of the young attendees, the importance of self-reflection after achieving milestones, and the need to recalibrate one's goals.

Elevator no. 192: Jonah Brown is a filmmaker, photographer, and traveler from Michigan who specializes in a wide variety of projects and personal work in the commercial, narrative, and travel spaces.

Parker and Sam return to the pod after holiday break. They share their hot takes for 2025, focusing on social media trends, the rise of authenticity in communication, and the evolving landscape for young adults.

Elevator no 190: Eitan Miller is the Founder of Boundless Creative a boutique video production company helping businesses and nonprofits share their stories. With an emphasis in documentary-style brand storytelling videos, Eitan has worked with clients from Barclays to Vogue to Amazon across the US and London. Eitan's work has won numerous awards, been profiled in Business Insider, and Boundless Creative was recently ranked as a top 10 corporate video production company in NYC.

Sam and Parker reflect on 2024, discussing their personal and professional growth, achievements, and the evolution of Elevation Nation. They share insights on setting goals and the importance of consistency in the lessons learned throughout the year.

Elevator no. 189: Donovan Taylor Hall is a youth empowerment advocate and mental health educator. Helping kids build positive relationships with themselves, he is driven by the idea that kids who feel better do better.Through social emotional learning, educational psychology, and positive youth development, Donovan has created programs and curriculum that aims to help young people become their own best friend. Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Donovan Hall and His Mission06:03 - The Disconnect in Education and Youth Engagement12:40 - Building Self-Expertise and Mental Health Awareness20:08 - Struggle vs. Suffering: A New Perspective on Growth27:57 - The Swimming Pool Analogy for Youth Development35:39 - The Power of Community and Teamwork46:02 - Donovan’s Mental Motto

In every interview of Elevation Nation, Sam and Parker ask each elevator a book recommendation that they have for the nation. Sam and Parker recap what they are currently reading and how its helping them elevate.

Elevator no. 188: Vin Infante is a mental performance coach and psychotherapist with over a decade of experience supporting entrepreneurs, execs, and organizations by optimizing their human capital to reach their potential in life and business.Chapters02:45 - The Vision of Impacting a Billion Lives05:54 - Vin's Journey in Mental Health and Therapy09:10 - The Limitations of Traditional Therapy12:07 - The Importance of Action in Personal Growth15:01 - Self-Mastery and Mental Fortitude17:48 - Empowerment Through Coaching and Therapy21:07 - Vin's Unique Career Path and Firefighting Adventure30:01 - Taking Action: From Firefighting to Coaching31:26 - Rapid Fire37:48 - Mental Motto: Wisdom from Marcus Aurelius

In the spirit of Spotify Wrapped, Parker and Sam reflect on goal setting for this year and how they are approaching their intentions for 2025.

Elevator no. 187: David Argasinski is a former professional tennis player who lives by the core values of discipline, work ethic, and mental fortitude. From the pro circuit, to coaching and mentoring others, David is now translating that pursuit to the business aspect of tennis while looking to inspire and bring a change to the next generation.

Parker and Sam reflect on Thanksgiving traditions, the importance of gratitude, and the personal growth that comes from embracing challenges.

Elevator no. 186: Natalie Barbu is a content creator and entrepreneur, known for her expertise in social media strategy and branding. She is the founder of Rella, which helps people combines the automation of content planning with the power of project management. A VC-backed startup, Rella has raised over $1M. Natalie has built a strong personal brand with over 400K followers across platforms. She also hosts a podcast, sharing insights on entrepreneurship and the creator economy.

Sam and Parker reconnect after a week off from Fortitude in 15. In this episode they share a transformative experience at a concert, highlighting the power of music to inspire introspection and connection.