The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I sit down with Orlando Brown Jr., offensive tackle for the Cincinnati Bengals and a Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee. Orlando shares how his deep connection to type 1 diabetes, from his brother’s diagnosis to his father’s passing, fuels his commitment to raising awareness. He opens up about the perspective that has shaped his career, the importance of loving the process, and how he stays grounded despite success on the field. We also talk about the impact of leadership, hard work, and the circumstances that shape an athlete’s journey, both in football and in life.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Lauren Fields, founder of Fieldswell, to talk about the power of authenticity and intentional living. We discuss how embracing vulnerability can lead to personal and professional growth, the importance of defining success beyond material wealth, and the daily practices that create lasting fulfillment. I share my personal journey of losing everything, rebuilding with purpose, and learning to detach happiness from outcomes. Lauren and I explore gratitude, energy, and the habits that help align with our highest potential. From rethinking time management to shifting self-perception, this conversation is a reminder that true success starts from within.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas, a legendary running back who helped define an era for the Buffalo Bills. We talk about the mindset that separates great players from Hall of Famers, the tight-knit bond that made that group of players so unique, and the lessons he carried from the locker room into business. Thurman shares how leadership, character, and accountability shaped his career and continue to drive his work today. We also talk about his latest business ventures, his passion for giving back, and why authenticity matters when choosing partnerships.

The future isn’t something we wait for, it’s something we shape with our thoughts, emotions, and actions. In this session, I explored how shifting our mindset, managing fear, and staying present can help us navigate uncertainty and create our desired future. By understanding the power of vibration, reframing fear as an opportunity, and committing to daily non-negotiables, we set the foundation for exponential growth. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at [email protected]

In today's episode, the focus is on the lessons that shape our lives, the way we remember and forget them, and the systems we can build to capture what truly matters. The conversation explores how to embrace both what resonates and what challenges us, using those insights to move forward with greater clarity. There's a deep dive into the role of faith, time, and energy in achieving success, as well as the mindset shifts that separate those who struggle from those who thrive. From overcoming fear to redefining the way we approach money and purpose, this discussion is packed with powerful takeaways on how to align with your true direction in life.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Gina Maier Vincent, host of Exquisitely Aligned, a master motivator and empowerment entrepreneur who helps people align their lives with their true potential. We talk about finding balance between ambition and fulfillment, the power of gratitude as a tool for shifting perspective, and the importance of asking for help. I share how prioritizing non-negotiables, embracing daily practices, and maintaining faith through challenges have shaped my success. Gina and I also discuss the impact of energy, time, and mindset in creating a meaningful life. Whether you’re feeling stuck or striving for more, this conversation offers practical ways to move forward with clarity and purpose.

In today’s episode, I break down why self-care isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation for serving others. Too many people believe they have to sacrifice their well-being to be generous, but the truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing sleep, health, and personal growth creates the energy and mindset needed to give more effectively. I also unpack the difference between self-interest and selflessness, the dangers of burnout from people-pleasing, and how fear of missing out interferes with success. Sustainable service starts with investing in yourself first, so you can make a lasting impact on those around you.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Amir Levanon and Shahar Cohen, two of the visionaries behind amp, a company redefining interactive fitness. Amir, who formerly led product innovations at Apple and Facebook, shares how amp’s AI-driven app blends gamification and smart technology to create an ultra-personalized training experience. Shahar, with a career spanning engineering leadership and product development, reveals how they built a sleek, accessible resistance training system designed to fit seamlessly into any home. We explore their mission to make strength training engaging, effective, and intuitive, the challenges they faced along the way, and the breakthroughs that are shaping the future of fitness.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Hemma R. Lomax, founder and host of Unless: The Podcast, and a leader in compliance and ethics, to talk about turning good intentions into real impact. We explore the power of scaling generosity, the math behind empowering a billion people, and why happiness comes from consistent, purposeful action. I share how ancient wisdom shaped my approach to abundance, the balance between giving and receiving, and the role of money in creating meaningful change. Hemma challenges us to get out of our own way, rethink our relationship with wealth, and embrace the energy of giving without losing sight of what truly matters.

In today’s episode, Adam Wilks shares how he’s built Carma HoldCo into a powerhouse for celebrity-backed consumer brands. As the CEO, he’s leading the charge in turning iconic names like Mike Tyson, Future and Ric Flair into global product empires. From cannabis and energy drinks to licensing deals that span continents, Adam breaks down the importance of authenticity in branding and why slapping a celebrity’s name on a product isn’t enough. He also talks about navigating private equity, expansion strategies, and how mission-driven partnerships set the foundation for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry.

Our past can either be a weight that holds us back or a tool that propels us forward. In this episode, I explored how shifting our perception of past experiences can lead to greater success and fulfillment. By taking accountability, reframing setbacks as lessons, and embracing forgiveness, we create a mindset that fosters growth and resilience. True progress comes from learning, adapting, and applying these lessons to shape a brighter future. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at [email protected]

In today’s episode, Craig Siegel and I are joined by Jon Gordon and Dr. Caroline Leaf to break down the power of grit, connection, and mental resilience. Jon, a bestselling author and speaker on leadership, explains how love fuels perseverance and why strong relationships create unshakable teams. Dr. Leaf, a neuroscientist and expert on the mind-brain connection, shares how to manage thoughts, rewire negative patterns, and use distractions productively. From faith to leadership to rewiring the way we think, this episode covers what it takes to build a mindset that withstands adversity and fuels long-term success.

In today’s episode, James Maslow and I sit down with Olympic gold medalist LaShawn Merritt to talk about the mindset and resilience that took him to the top of his sport. LaShawn shares how he navigated the transition from elite competition, the struggle of finding new purpose, and the lessons that still drive him today. We break down the power of JOMO—the joy of missing out—shifting focus from short-term temptations to long-term success. James reflects on his own career evolution, the value of surrounding yourself with the right people, and how embracing change has fueled his growth in entertainment and business.

In today’s episode, I share strategies to increase sales success and improve leadership effectiveness. We explore the importance of credibility, emotional connection, and confident communication when raising capital or pitching ideas. I break down my "3 no rule," a proven method to save time and create urgency by allowing people to say no. I also discuss how to avoid objections entirely by focusing on open-ended questions that uncover value and align solutions with others’ needs. Additionally, I touch on reframing emotional expenses in business leadership and using simple language to drive better results. These insights are designed to empower you to achieve greater success in sales and leadership.

In today’s episode, I break down the power of purpose, persistence, and perspective in shaping the spaces we occupy. The energy we bring to our work, relationships, and daily activities determines our success, and learning to love what others resist unlocks opportunities most people miss. True persistence isn’t just about never quitting—it’s about continuous progress, adapting to challenges, and shifting perspectives to align with greater possibilities. By surrounding ourselves with the right environments and people, we amplify our awareness and elevate our results. Success isn’t about chasing happiness—it’s about finding fulfillment in the pursuit itself, trusting the process, and creating alignment between who we are and where we want to be or better.

In today’s episode, I explore how to align your past, present, and future to achieve lasting freedom and wealth. I break down the importance of shifting the meaning you assign to past experiences and how this impacts your self-image and direction. I also share why non-negotiable habits, like prioritizing sleep and health, lay the foundation for success, and how negotiable actions can enhance progress when approached intentionally. By focusing on what you want, who can help you, and how to structure your time, you can reduce resistance and unlock your potential, all while building a community that supports and amplifies your vision for long-term success.

In today’s episode, I break down the power of relationships and how the people around us shape our success, energy, and perspective. Every team in life—family, business, faith, or finance—requires the right alignment to move forward without resistance. I share how to recognize those who support growth versus those who interfere, whether they are obvious detractors or well-meaning loved ones operating from fear. By understanding relativity, association, and the balance of giving and receiving in relationships, it becomes easier to build a network that fuels success. Identifying and removing limiting influences is key to creating an environment that fosters purpose, fulfillment, and progress.

The ideas we surround ourselves with shape every aspect of our lives. In this episode, I explored how what we think, say, do believe, and feel influence our energy, decisions, and overall success. By being intentional with the information we take in and the words we speak, we can elevate our frequency, attract better opportunities, and create meaningful connections. This episode reminds us that our mindset is our greatest asset and what we think, say, and see directly impacts our ability to grow and thrive. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me [email protected]

Today’s episode is from a live San Diego meetup, where I dive into the strategies behind authentic networking and building lasting connections. We explore how capturing your unique essence on social media can amplify your influence and attract the right people into your circle. I discuss the power of social silos, creating value-aligned communities, and using intentional relationships to support personal and professional growth. From prioritizing meaningful interactions to leveraging your network for mutual success, this session highlights how to cultivate a system that fuels abundance and opportunity. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, these tools will transform how you connect and collaborate.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Rick Jordan, CEO and founder of ReachOut Technology and a leading voice in cybersecurity, business, and ethics. Rick shares how his signature phrase, "What's shaking," grew into a unique branding tool, and why staying authentic has been a cornerstone of his success. We dive into his latest venture, Trustless, which uses blockchain technology to solve critical security issues across industries like finance, real estate, and law. From tackling AI fraud to preventing data breaches, Rick explains how innovation often comes from connecting existing resources in new ways. His insights highlight the importance of protecting people while driving meaningful change.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by James Maslow and Clinton Sparks to explore the essence of long-term success. Clinton shares the fascinating story of producing Lady Gaga’s “Bloody Mary” and how it took over a decade to achieve its global success, amassing nearly 500 million streams. We discuss the patience, perseverance, and belief required to stay committed to a vision—even when immediate results aren’t evident. James reflects on how persistence and adaptability shape his career as an actor, musician, and producer. Together, we unpack what it means to build a strong foundation within yourself to fuel your journey and inspire others along the way.

In today's episode, I sit down with Gretchen Littlefield, CEO of Moore, to explore how data and AI are reshaping the nonprofit sector. We discuss the art of personalized communication and how Moore uses data to create meaningful connections, from raising awareness about heart disease to driving impactful philanthropy. Gretchen shares her perspective on the future of technology, emphasizing its potential to build trust and unify communities. We also touch on the ethical use of AI and how understanding audience “frequencies” enables organizations to communicate in authentic, actionable ways. This conversation reveals how innovation in data is transforming lives and making the world a better place.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Greg Pursley, also known as Dr. G, host of the Fix Your BS podcast. We discuss the power of prioritizing relationships and how focusing on consistent, meaningful connections can create exponential growth in both personal and professional life. I share my strategies for managing overwhelm, building strong connections, and creating systems to identify who you can help and who can help you. Dr. G and I also explore the value of giving without expectation and how embracing gratitude and forgiveness transforms setbacks into stepping stones. We wrap up with a look at my role with the Napoleon Hill Institute and its lasting legacy.

In today's episode, I sit down with Emmy Award-winning journalist Liz Claman to explore the defining moments of her career. From early rejections that could have derailed her path to becoming one of the most trusted names in business journalism, Liz shares how she turned challenges into stepping stones. As the anchor of The Claman Countdown on Fox Business, she reflects on the persistence, adaptability, and confidence that helped her thrive in a competitive industry. We discuss her approach to navigating high-pressure environments, lessons learned from setbacks, and the mindset that kept her focused on long-term success. Liz’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and determination.

Living without attachment is not about giving up on success but about embracing a mindset that values the journey over the destination. In this session, I explored how detachment from rigid expectations, combined with simplicity, gratitude, and purpose, leads to a more fulfilling life. By focusing on actions aligned with our deeper goals, reframing setbacks as opportunities, and finding joy in the pursuit itself, we can create meaningful connections and lasting impact. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I sit down with Brandon Dawson to share stories of resilience, transformation, and purpose. We discuss our journeys from financial success to devastating losses, including my own experience of losing $100 million, and how we both found a renewed sense of purpose by shifting from self-serving goals to empowering others. We explore the stages of life, from the world of "not enough" to "just enough" and finally "more than enough," and how learning to love ourselves and helping others has been a critical part of our personal growth. Brandon also shares his own struggles and triumphs, as well as the importance of mentorship and faith.

In today’s episode, Craig Siegel and I are joined by the incredible Alethea Crimmins, a pre-K teacher and motivational speaker who turned years of adversity into a mission of empowerment and purpose. In this conversation, Alethea shares her approach to breaking through self-imposed limitations, embracing faith, and owning your worth unapologetically. We discuss how to set non-negotiable standards for your life, navigate negativity, and create your own table where abundance thrives. With her energy and wisdom, Alethea inspires us all to shine brighter without dimming anyone else’s light.

In today's episode, I speak with Craig Goldberg, a technologist, Certified Vibroacoustic Therapy Practitioner, and patented inventor who leads inHarmony, a company dedicated to helping people find inner calm through sound and vibration. Craig explains how vibroacoustic therapy is transforming the way we approach stress, anxiety, and overall well-being. We discuss the science behind frequency's impact on the body, how sound can evoke emotional healing, and the role of awareness in achieving balance. Craig also shares his personal experiences with altered states and how inHarmony technology can help anyone access higher frequencies and a deeper sense of relaxation.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Kurt Rotherham, the founder of The Elite Group and Elite Recognition, to discuss the power of employee appreciation and recognition. Kurt shares how his company began in a garage and grew into a leading provider of promotional products and service awards. We explore how meaningful recognition impacts motivation, productivity, and loyalty in the workplace. Kurt explains why customer service and adaptability remain core to his company’s success and how younger generations are bringing fresh perspectives to traditional businesses. Together, we uncover what it takes to build a thriving business rooted in values, resilience, and a commitment to giving back.

In today’s episode, I tackle questions from a live Q&A session, offering guidance on alignment, action, and adjustment to achieve personal and professional goals. Topics include building confidence by surrounding yourself with the right people, creating contracts for collaborations, and articulating value in business proposals. I share practical tips on starting a business, overcoming fear, and using the "AAA" philosophy to align your actions with your objectives. I also discuss the importance of maintaining balance in your daily practices, reconnecting with your purpose, and removing obstacles that interfere with your progress. This session is a deep dive into practical strategies for growth and success.

In today’s episode, I share how the "Shadow Method" creates opportunities for growth by combining observation, feedback, and collaboration. I explore how to transform negativity in team dynamics, the value of canceling resistance, and how clarity in communication can shift conversations toward solutions. You'll also hear insights on embracing a coach's mindset, leveraging perceived value in sales, and the critical importance of understanding timing and risk tolerance. Through personal stories, practical frameworks, and lessons learned from successes and setbacks, I show how cultivating an abundant mindset can elevate leadership, collaboration, and results.

In this training session, I shared the Five to Thrive sales system—a powerful approach to creating long-lasting relationships and building a thriving community. This system focuses on stimulating interest, transitioning it into shared goals, managing and developing visions, and ultimately creating a network of advocates who both buy from you and sell for you. By prioritizing credibility, emotional connections, and adaptability, this framework goes beyond transactions, fostering trust and delivering value that drives mutual success. Let’s commit to implementing these principles to create meaningful connections and a prosperous future together. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today's episode, I join Paul Rakowicz, host of the Leveraging Your Voice podcast, for a thought-provoking conversation about mindset, personal growth, and the practical steps to achieving success. We explore the five essential practices for reaching your goals: knowing your what, your who, your how, your now, and applying your why. I share insights on aligning your daily actions with your desired outcomes, the importance of asking for help, and the power of gratitude and faith. Paul and I also discuss how emotional control and intentionality are key to building the life you want.

Today's episode captures a live Q&A session in Atlanta, where I share how I calculate emotional expense to quantify the true cost of worry and stress. I explain how aligning intuition with practical decision-making can elevate both personal and professional outcomes, and why non-negotiable habits are essential for living with purpose. I also address raising capital with authenticity, managing time as a resource, and navigating relationships that both feed and challenge us.

In today's episode, I reflect on the lessons I’ve learned about wealth, giving, and the true meaning of abundance. From losing over $100 million to rediscovering gratitude and faith, I share the principles that transformed my life and mindset. We explore how to align intention with action, why giving and receiving are equally vital, and the power of asking for help. I also discuss my daily routines, the importance of prioritizing time, and the value of learning to love what others avoid. These strategies have shaped my journey and can help you achieve more than you ever imagined.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Nirav Tolia, Co-Founder and CEO of Nextdoor, the world’s largest local social network. With over two decades of experience leading pioneering Internet companies, Nirav shares insights from building Nextdoor, stepping away after nine years, and eventually returning as CEO in 2024. He reflects on the resilience required to create meaningful businesses, the importance of curiosity in navigating challenges, and why nobody gets paid to do the easy thing. From his early days at Yahoo to leading a public company, Nirav’s journey offers valuable lessons on leadership, perseverance, and the mindset needed to turn setbacks into success.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Carey Conley, a visionary entrepreneur and author of Keep Looking Up. Together, we explore the challenges entrepreneurs face in balancing freedom and purpose with the demands of their work. Carey shares her strategies for maintaining clarity and discipline, including creating non-negotiable habits and building a vision-driven life. I talk about the role of gratitude, effective prioritization, and how small, intentional actions can lead to exponential results. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to realign with your goals, this conversation offers practical tools and inspiration to stay focused, overcome fear, and embrace the path to fulfillment.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Peter Diamandis, a visionary leader and futurist known for his work with the XPRIZE Foundation and Singularity University. We explore how advancements in technology and mindset can transform health and longevity, extending not just lifespan but healthspan. Peter shares actionable insights from his new book, Longevity Guidebook, including the importance of routines, optimizing cellular health, and prioritizing sleep and gratitude. With AI revolutionizing healthcare and breakthroughs on the horizon, Peter emphasizes how small, consistent changes can help you thrive now and intercept life-extending technologies in the near future.

In this episode, you’ll dive into Napoleon Hill’s 17 Principles of Success, and learn how intention, gratitude, and empowerment can unlock your definite purpose and lead to success. We’ll connect these timeless principles to your entrepreneurial journey and personal growth, showing you how clarity of purpose, gratitude, and accountability can transform your life. By combining Hill’s powerful wisdom with my approach to actionable success, you’ll learn how to apply each principle to real-life situations. I’ll help you take practical steps toward mastering these principles, unlocking your full potential, and setting yourself on the path to lasting success. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Rory Cutaia, CEO of Verb and executive producer of Go Fund Yourself; John Barrett, CEO of Dorothy House; and Dave Hardin, founder and CEO of Outpost Ventures, for a conversation about storytelling, technology, and collaboration. As a host of Go Fund Yourself, I reflect with Rory on how the show is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs. John emphasizes the importance of authentic storytelling in leaving a lasting legacy, while Dave highlights how mentorship and iteration drive momentum and success. Together, we explore how creativity, innovation, and a willingness to embrace opportunities can transform lives and businesses.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Rebecca Whitman, a life coach and bestselling author, to explore the key to living a balanced, beautiful, and abundant life. Rebecca shares her framework for the Seven Pillars of Abundance, offering practical strategies to manage time, nurture relationships, and prioritize self-care. We discuss the importance of shifting from scarcity to abundance, the power of gratitude, and how consistency transforms simple actions into lasting success. Rebecca also explains why romance—whether with a partner or life itself—is essential for joy and fulfillment. Her insights will leave you inspired to create harmony across every area of your life.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Craig Siegel and Sharon McMahon to welcome the new year with insights on progress, communication, and growth. Sharon shares her perspective on why embracing mistakes leads to faster success, the importance of intellectual humility, and how language shapes the communities we build. We also discuss the human tendency to seek validation, the role of struggle in personal development, and how spiritual insights can guide our paths. Sharon’s journey from aspiring physician to celebrated teacher and New York Times bestselling author of The Small and the Mighty is a testament to the transformative power of purpose and perseverance.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ryan Myher, a two-time entrepreneur and the co-founder of Shuttle Labs, a development company driving innovation in blockchain technology with the Genius Bridge Protocol. At just 25 years old, Ryan shares how he navigated the fast-changing world of crypto, weathering two market crashes while building a thriving business. We discuss the future of decentralized finance, the global implications of blockchain, and the challenges of raising capital as a young entrepreneur. Ryan’s perspective highlights the importance of adaptability, humility, and mentorship in a volatile industry, and he offers insights into the opportunities that lie ahead in Web3 and beyond.

In today’s episode, I share insights from a Q&A session on building effective routines and navigating the balance between celebration and growth. I explain how committing consistent time to non-negotiable activities like health, relationships, and faith creates exponential outcomes through productivity, accessibility, and gratitude. I discuss how gratitude serves as the core of celebration, helping us find lessons and value in all experiences. Additionally, I explore the power of aligning actions with intentions to reduce resistance and amplify growth. Through open-ended questions and a framework for meeting people where they are, I provide practical strategies to inspire meaningful progress while maintaining focus on what truly matters.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Avery Carl, an expert in short-term rentals and a best-selling author, to explore smarter strategies in the vacation rental market. Avery shares how she transitioned from a music career to becoming a top real estate agent, building a portfolio of over 250 properties across multiple states. We discuss the importance of choosing the right markets, managing properties effectively, and balancing personal use with profitability. Avery explains key insights, including the short-term rental loophole, self-management tips, and how to create an emotional connection with guests that leads to repeat bookings and glowing reviews.

Kicking off 2025, I shared insights on how intentional living can set the tone for a year of purpose and achievement. We can approach challenges and opportunities more clearly by aligning our actions with a higher purpose, establishing consistent habits, and measuring progress. This session explored the concept of "divine direction," practical strategies, and the Three M’s—Mindset, Mechanics, and Measurement—to help create lasting personal and professional impact. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I’m joined by James Maslow and Jesse James West for an inspiring discussion on fitness, motivation, and finding balance in life. Jesse shares insights from his journey as a fitness entrepreneur, revealing simple, actionable tips to stay healthy and achieve your goals. He emphasizes the power of consistent habits like increasing daily movement and making smart nutritional choices. Jesse also opens up about overcoming criticism as a young creator and how embracing challenges has shaped his success. James reflects on their shared passion for growth and how these principles can apply to anyone striving for personal and professional excellence.

In today’s episode, Craig Siegel and I are joined by Dr. Frank Anderson to explore why feeling good can sometimes feel overwhelming and how unresolved beliefs from our past may block us from accepting joy. Dr. Frank shares insights on the right timing for forgiveness, the importance of healing before moving forward, and practical ways to challenge scarcity mindsets. We also discuss his memoir To Be Loved, the universal desire for connection, and his groundbreaking work creating trauma-informed approaches for self-healing. This thoughtful and inspiring conversation is packed with wisdom on finding gratitude, healing, and self-love.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Tyler Donahue, a visionary entrepreneur dedicated to inspiring leaders to solve big challenges. We discuss the pursuit of happiness as an infinite game and explore the power of mentorship, consistency, and aligned incentives. Tyler shares insights into driving meaningful change through a networked approach, empowering others to empower their communities. I break down actionable ways to achieve alignment between personal values and professional goals, while Tyler offers a fresh perspective on creating impact through capitalistic levers. Together, we discuss lessons in prioritization, leadership, and the strategies needed to empower a billion people.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jacob and Victor Eriksson, the innovative brothers behind Boxbollen, a wildly popular app and physical product that has captured the attention of millions, including some of the world’s biggest celebrities. We discuss how their sibling dynamic drives their success, the challenges of scaling a bootstrapped startup, and their strategies for securing high-profile endorsements. They share the journey from launching in Sweden to becoming a global phenomenon, the importance of persistence in overcoming rejection, and their approach to ad spend with their mantra: "test best guesses." This episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and creating something truly universal.