The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I sit down with Michael Chandler, a three-time MMA world champion known for his relentless drive and redemption story. From humble beginnings, Michael shares how his small-town work ethic shaped his journey, allowing him to overcome self-doubt and self-sabotage to become a top UFC lightweight fighter. We discuss his early wrestling days, his faith, and the mindset that fuels him both inside and outside the cage. Michael’s reflections on resilience, fear, and the unending pursuit of excellence reveal what it truly means to embrace purpose and continuously push forward, regardless of setbacks.

In today’s episode, I share essential lessons to help children thrive, from cultivating inner strength to embracing gratitude. We’ll explore the power of silence, freeing ourselves from external validation, and focusing on possibilities over problems. I discuss how pain can guide us toward growth, the value of meaningful connections, and navigating the “anxiety zone” without losing resilience. Each lesson aims to nurture a mindset of doing our best, learning, and finding joy along the way. Through these principles, I hope to empower young people to develop the courage to be who they truly are and pursue their fullest potential. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I share the journey that reshaped my life and outlook. From growing up with financial struggles to reaching immense wealth, I discuss how I lost everything and the pivotal insights that helped me rebuild. I explore how my values evolved, revealing the impact of chasing superficial goals versus pursuing meaningful ones. Joined by Ruben, Darius, and Rob, we dig into the importance of “why” in setting sustainable goals, the future of AI in sales, and the value of investing in one’s skills and desires. Through stories and lessons, I hope to inspire a path toward a life of abundance and purpose.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Olyasha Novozhylova, the inspiring creator behind NotBasicBlonde, a lifestyle platform encouraging young women to embrace bold, unique style. We discuss overcoming scarcity mindsets, the journey from self-doubt to confidence, and navigating early entrepreneurial struggles. I share insights on breaking free from a comparison-driven mindset, developing resilience, and finding true purpose through setbacks—including my own financial challenges. We also cover the essential skills and daily practices that every entrepreneur should cultivate, from seeking help to prioritizing meaningful connections. Join us for a deep conversation about abundance, self-worth, and practical steps to stay grounded in business and life.

In today’s episode, I reveal how I made $250K in a single day through speaking in Dubai and share the secrets behind turning speeches into powerful revenue streams. Joined by Shawn Walchef, we dive into the difference between content creation and content capturing, emphasizing how capturing the right moments on stage leads to lasting impact and profit. I share my approach to mastering stage presence, delivering new topics with confidence, and why practice is the key to success. Shawn shares how storytelling has shaped his journey, and we discuss how combining preparation with effective content capturing can transform any speaking opportunity into a major win.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dan Martell, entrepreneur, author of Buy Back Your Time, and a leader in personal and business growth. Dan opens up about the wake-up call that drove him to rethink time management after achieving business success at the cost of relationships. We discuss his powerful framework for "buying back" time and creating lasting value through code, content, capital, and collaboration. Dan shares how understanding time as the only true dependent variable lets us make impactful choices, bring our best selves to work, and align our priorities to grow both our businesses and personal lives in meaningful ways.

In today's episode, I dive into the lessons that have shaped my journey, from personal growth to building a resilient mindset. I share insights on why true progress requires faith, the power of knowing who you serve and who supports you, and the importance of intentional daily practices. I explore the valuable—yet sometimes painful—lessons that challenge us to grow, including one of my hardest trials: losing over $100 million. Yet, it’s through setbacks like these that I've learned the value of gratitude, self-discipline, and trust in divine timing. This episode is a blueprint for embracing life’s obstacles as essential steps toward our highest potential.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Erik Cabral, founder of the Entrepreneur Circle Podcast and an industry leader in branding and content creation. Known for his expertise in guiding Fortune 100 and Inc. 5000 companies, Erik brings unique insights into building trust through vulnerability and gratitude. We talk about the impact of humility, learning through mistakes, and why maintaining faith can transform even the hardest challenges into opportunities. Erik also shares his personal journey in redefining success, reminding us of the power in small actions like gratitude, and why embracing failures can strengthen our path forward.

In this episode, I’m joined by a panel of experts to unpack how strategic thinking and technology can drive real impact in both business and healthcare. We discuss the power of establishing clear values and a strong value proposition, focusing on how aligning these elements empowers teams to innovate and collaborate effectively. I also share insights from my own experiences—like my time in Bhutan—on why empathy and personalization are essential to improving healthcare, and how leadership principles from sports can teach us resilience and accountability. As we aim to foster growth, I challenge everyone to adopt a “Try me” mindset over “Why me,” embracing responsibility as a step toward lasting impact. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I share my journey from growing up in a world of scarcity to building a life of abundance. I talk about my early years with my single mom, who worked tirelessly to provide for her six kids, and how her relentless efforts shaped our lives. I also discuss how my initial dreams of becoming a football player transformed into a career in business, where I made and lost millions. Along the way, I discovered the importance of receiving, not just giving, and how embracing an abundant mindset has led me to empower others to live more fulfilled lives.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Elia Gourgouris, America’s Happiness Doctor, to explore how divine direction, detours, and timing shape our lives. We discuss the journey from living in the world of “not enough” to “just enough” and ultimately to “more than enough.” I share the powerful lessons learned from losing over $100 million, embracing failure as a divine detour, and finding meaning in every outcome—both good and bad. Dr. Gourgouris and I talk about the importance of living in alignment with our heartset, enjoying the consistent pursuit of our potential, and the ultimate goal of helping others find happiness.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Rudy Mawer, a world-class entrepreneur and marketing expert, to explore the balance between corporate structure and entrepreneurial freedom. We discuss the importance of leveraging corporate principles like standard operating procedures (SOPs) to scale businesses, while also maintaining the agility of entrepreneurship. Rudy shares his experiences from building multi-million dollar businesses and how applying frameworks from major corporations can be a game changer for entrepreneurs. I also dive into my AAA strategy—alignment, action, and adjustment—which helps entrepreneurs build lasting success while handling the inevitable challenges that come with growth.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Federico Muyshondt, CEO of BODYARMOR Sports Nutrition, to discuss the evolution of the sports nutrition industry and the importance of staying ahead in a competitive landscape. Federico shares how his team has transformed BODYARMOR and Powerade by focusing on innovation, functionality, and global expansion. He highlights how athletes’ expectations have changed and the critical role sports nutrition plays in modern sports. Federico also reflects on how discipline, the "Mamba Mentality," and a strong family foundation have shaped his leadership and entrepreneurial success.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dave Roberts, manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, to explore the role of character, resilience, and positivity in both sports and life. Reflecting on his journey from an underdog in baseball to leading one of the most storied teams, Dave shares his insights into the essential qualities that help athletes and coaches rise above obstacles. We discuss his commitment to shaping young athletes through YSPN360, a platform dedicated to helping kids experience the joy of sports, and his focus on fostering a positive impact. Dave’s insights offer valuable lessons on embracing challenges and building a legacy grounded in integrity.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ryan Pineda, an entrepreneur who has founded seven businesses and invested over $100 million in real estate. Ryan shares how his faith is shaping his mission to bring the kingdom to the marketplace, starting with small Bible study groups in offices and expanding into large-scale events like Wealthy Kingdom and Kingdom Nights. We dive into the relationship between faith, business, and wealth creation, challenging common misconceptions around faith and money. Ryan also reflects on divine timing, overcoming failures, and the importance of having an eternal perspective as both a leader and entrepreneur.

As Einstein said, “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” The consciousness we operate in shapes the quality of our decisions, actions, and results. This episode is designed to help you elevate your consciousness through intentionality, so you can approach challenges from a higher perspective and create solutions that align with your purpose. Throughout this training, we will explore five essential steps to shift your consciousness when facing challenges in your personal and professional life. Remember, the goal is not just to find answers—it’s to evolve into the person capable of thinking at a higher level. To join me on future Friday Training sessions, register free at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training

In today’s episode, I sit down with HipHopGamer, Gerard Williams, to discuss how we can find our true purpose through life’s toughest moments. I share the story of losing over $100 million and how that loss led me to reconnect with what truly matters: faith, gratitude, and purpose. Gerard and I explore how faith has shaped both of our journeys, from his early days nearly landing a major record deal to building a career at the intersection of gaming, music, and culture. Together, we talk about the lessons we’ve learned from pain and how connecting to something bigger than ourselves leads to real success.

In today's episode, I share how my commitment to consistent daily habits shapes every aspect of my life, from my unwinding routine at 9:00 p.m. to my 4:00 a.m. wake-up. I explain why non-negotiable practices like getting seven hours of sleep, maintaining my health, and dedicating time to family are essential to success. I explore how staying connected with my daughters each day, even in small ways, has a compounding effect, leading to exponential outcomes. The episode also discusses the importance of exceptions and flexibility, balancing structure with space for variant behavior, and the role of gratitude and intention in achieving growth.

In today's episode, I reflect on the timeless wisdom of Shakespeare and its relevance to modern branding and marketing. Drawing on my experiences in speaking and content creation, I explore how understanding the energy behind a brand can transform its global reach. I share insights on capturing your true essence, resonating with your audience, and why it's important to embrace both what you love and what you dislike. By being repetitive and authentic, we can build communities that support and amplify our message. I also discuss the power of amplification and perpetuation, providing valuable strategies for anyone looking to elevate their personal or professional brand.

In today’s episode, I sit down with trailblazing NFL agent Nicole Lynn, President of Football Operations at Klutch Sports Group. Nicole shares her journey of breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, discussing the importance of setting non-negotiables both in business and personal life. We explore how she overcomes unconscious bias and earns credibility as one of the most successful sports agents in the world. Nicole also opens up about her approach to managing high-profile athletes and navigating the challenges posed by NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals. Her story is one of resilience, confidence, and always showing up authentically.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Brandon Brittingham, an elite real estate expert and entrepreneur, to discuss the value of asking for help and embracing the “infinite loop of abundance.” I share my personal journey of losing $100 million and how that experience transformed my approach to success, wealth, and life. We explore how paying the "dummy tax" and relying on the wisdom of others can fast-track your journey, while Brandon reinforces the importance of building a supportive community. Together, we uncover why letting opportunities come to you, instead of chasing them, is key to long-term success.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Elizabeth Harlow and Chris Trick from Sonesta International Hotels. We explore the unique strategies that make Sonesta stand out in a competitive hospitality market, including their approach to sports partnerships, social media amplification, and the importance of creating memorable guest experiences. Elizabeth and Chris share how they've built brand loyalty through personalized services like the pet-welcoming PAWS program and innovative offerings for fitness enthusiasts. We also discuss how AI and technology are shaping guest experiences, improving operational efficiency, and contributing to Sonesta's continued growth across its diverse range of properties.

In this episode, I dive into how relationships impact both our personal and professional growth. I talk about managing expectations, nurturing connections, and aligning relationships with our goals. By using strategies like my Triple A Strategy—Alignment, Action, and Adjustment—we can build stronger, more supportive relationships that promote long-term success. I also emphasize the importance of asking for help and staying intentional in all our connections. These principles are essential for living a life filled with purpose, positivity, and fulfillment. To join me on future Friday Training sessions, register free at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training

In today’s episode, I sit down with Greg Randolph, host of the Heroes and Icons podcast, to discuss the importance of mentorship, leadership, and the balance between perception and reality. We touch on the lessons I learned from legendary sports agent Leigh Steinberg, including how venture capital and technology shaped my career. I also share insights from my partnership with Warren Moon, who helped break the color barrier in football and continues to inspire. We explore the power of repetition in teaching, coaching, and mentoring, and why it’s essential to choose advice carefully, based on situational knowledge, to avoid being held back by ego.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Arjun Dingra, a mortgage advisor, entrepreneur, and creator of the LFG Society. Arjun shares his journey through the financial crisis and how the lack of a support network inspired him to build a community of like-minded professionals. We discuss the power of connection, the importance of giving back, and how overcoming challenges can shape a person’s outlook on life and business. Arjun also reflects on his time as the Co-Head Coach of Team USA Taekwondo and how lessons from the sport translate into leadership and mentorship within his professional career.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Eddie George, the legendary Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL running back, who shares how his journey off the field led him to entrepreneurship, acting, and coaching. Eddie talks about the challenges of transitioning from football to business, acting on Broadway, and earning his MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. He discusses his unexpected path to becoming the head coach at Tennessee State University and how he uses his experiences to inspire young athletes. Eddie reflects on the art of leadership, storytelling, and overcoming adversity, both on and off the field.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Nick Santonastasso, a world-renowned speaker and entrepreneur, to explore how he transitioned from being a top-tier keynote speaker to teaching others the secrets of captivating an audience. Nick shares the power of focusing on the people you’re serving, mastering the art of staying present, and learning to speak from the heart. He opens up about the struggles behind his success, the importance of persistence, and how embracing failure through repetition leads to long-term growth. Nick’s journey is a testament to the idea that true transformation happens when you share your story and serve a purpose greater than yourself.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Chris Gardner, renowned entrepreneur and author of The Pursuit of Happyness, to explore how we can shape future generations through empowerment and self-belief. Chris shares how he's committed to helping young people overcome obstacles by elevating their self-image and giving them permission to dream. We discuss the importance of sticking to Plan A and ignoring the doubts of others, the influence of social media, and how global events like the financial crisis and 2020 forced us to pivot. Chris also emphasizes the critical value of time, reminding us that it is our most precious asset.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Audie Attar, the founder and CEO of Paradigm Sports, who’s best known for managing Conor McGregor. Audie shares his journey from being an athlete to becoming a leading sports agent, driven by his passion for advocacy and entrepreneurship. We talk about the importance of creating real value, building purpose-driven businesses, and maintaining authenticity in a world that can easily focus on quick gains. Audie explains how forward thinking and having a clear vision helped him shape his success and create a lasting impact, including how he navigated challenges to build Paradigm Sports into a powerhouse.

Today’s episode marks 25 years of my Free Friday Trainings. I took time to reflect on the 25 most valuable lessons that have shaped not only my career but my overall approach to life. From embracing harmony and prioritizing health to using desire and intuition as tools for progress, each lesson is aimed at helping you push past obstacles and move forward with passion, purpose and profitability. To join me on future Friday Training sessions, register free at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Asheesh Advani, CEO of Junior Achievement Worldwide and author of Modern Achievement. We discuss the evolving definition of success and the importance of preparing young entrepreneurs to adapt in a rapidly changing world. Asheesh shares how Junior Achievement helps students develop self-belief and confidence by placing them in leadership roles early on. We talk about the shift from ready-made to self-made purpose, the importance of building diverse networks, and how young people can navigate a future with multiple careers. Asheesh emphasizes the role of perseverance, self-efficacy, and seizing opportunities to create lasting impact.

In today’s episode, I focus on the power of credibility and how it drives success in sales. By understanding the importance of trust and articulating value, we can build a community of customers who buy from us and sell for us. I break down the five steps of thriving in sales, starting with stimulating interest and transitioning that interest into a shared vision. The goal is simple: to give people more of what they like or take away what they don’t. Through open-minded questions and clear communication, we maximize sales success by aligning time, emotion, and value, while maintaining credibility at every step.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ryan Ellis, CEO of TravisMathew Apparel, to explore how he helped grow the company into a powerhouse brand. We discuss the strategy behind TravisMathew's success, including taking a product-first approach, listening to customers, and attacking underserved categories like performance denim. Ryan shares his insights on building a strong, adaptable team, how they overcame the loss of key executives, and the importance of balancing experience with cultural fit. He also emphasizes the power of preparation, learning from mistakes, and how maintaining a "healthy fear" drives continuous improvement and growth.

In today's episode, I sit down with Ray Hespen, CEO and co-founder of Property Meld, to explore his journey in building one of the fastest-growing real estate tech companies in the U.S. Ray shares his insights on fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork, as well as his vision for the future of maintenance automation. We discuss the challenges and rewards of leadership, including how to balance forward-thinking initiatives with present-day needs. Ray also reflects on how embracing a bold vision can reshape the property management experience, ultimately making home ownership less burdensome for everyone involved.

In today's episode, I sit down with high-performance coach Devin Denofa and real estate entrepreneur Albert Preciado to explore the journey from humble beginnings to business success. Devin shares his passion for guiding others to personal and professional achievements, while Albert recounts how his early experiences led him to build a real estate empire, driven by a desire to help families achieve their dreams. We discuss the importance of investing in yourself, embracing challenges, and finding mentors with a proven track record. Albert's story of resilience and growth in the face of adversity offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Bob Parsons, founder of GoDaddy, to discuss his incredible journey from the tough streets of Baltimore to building a billion-dollar empire. Bob opens up about his struggles with PTSD and the life-changing moment that helped him overcome it after decades of challenges. He shares how his passion for entrepreneurship started at a young age, driven by a need to provide for himself, and how these early lessons shaped his future success. We also dive into his unique approach to philanthropy and his belief in constantly looking forward, never letting the past hold him back.

Today's episode is the latest in my “Friday Training” series, we focused specifically on how self-image, intentionality, and the power of community play key roles in shaping our outcomes. By understanding the influence of our thoughts, emotions, and social interactions, we can craft a purposeful life, aligned with our goals and values. Key highlights include: Understanding Self-Image and Social Influence The Five Levels of Intentionality Balancing Human and Spiritual Experiences Emotions and Changing Consciousness Committing to consistent intentional actions and a positive mindset creates the foundation for long-lasting success and happiness. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: **https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1**

In today’s episode, I’m joined by John Assaraf, a behavioral neuroscience expert and high-performance coach. We talk about how aligning your energy with the right actions can help you achieve success. John explains the importance of having a clear vision, setting goals, and making small daily improvements to your mindset and skills. He shares how dedicating just an hour each day to working on yourself can lead to major growth. We also discuss how to raise children with a growth mindset, manage emotions, and reframe challenges to turn them into opportunities for success.

In today's episode, I share my five daily practices designed to take you from a place of nothingness to a life filled with purpose, passion, and profitability. By focusing on what you want, who can help you, and how to prioritize your time, these simple yet powerful habits will help you overcome obstacles and unlock your potential. I discuss how consistency, non-negotiables, and proper rest contribute to long-term success. Through continuous practice and applying your “why,” you'll transform possibilities into probabilities and ultimately, into your reality. Join me as I explain how to achieve progress, regardless of setbacks, by focusing on the right behaviors.

In today’s episode, I sit down with David Abeles, CEO of TaylorMade Golf, to discuss the exciting innovations and bold strategies driving the future of golf. From pushing boundaries with cutting-edge technologies to optimizing performance through advanced material management, David shares how TaylorMade is redefining the game. We also touch on the launch of Sunday Red, inspired by Tiger Woods, and the company’s long-term vision for growing the sport. Along the way, David reflects on disruption within the golf industry and the importance of keeping the best players competing at the highest level.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Rob Dyrdek to discuss how he’s taken a scientific approach to mastering life and business. Rob shares his journey of transitioning from the chaos of celebrity life to creating a systematic approach for success and happiness. By meticulously designing systems, he’s been able to simplify his goals, optimize his routines, and gamify his discipline. We explore how he applies this philosophy to both his business and personal life, building consistency through qualitative awareness, staying out of the “half-empty” mindset, and creating a rhythm for life that’s adaptable and balanced by purpose.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Jim Kwik, the world-renowned brain performance coach and founder of Kwik Brain. Jim shares his powerful story, from being known as the “boy with the broken brain” after a childhood injury to becoming a leading expert in brain optimization. We discuss how small, consistent steps can lead to significant change, and why managing your mind is just as important as managing your time. Jim emphasizes that true progress comes from focusing on what ignites you and teaches how to rewire your brain to enhance learning, memory, and performance. His insights are a roadmap for personal growth.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Neil Patel, a digital marketing expert who has helped companies like Amazon, NBC, and GM grow their revenue. We discuss the difference between simply working and actually making money by solving real problems. Neil shares his insights on the importance of focusing on large, addressable markets and staying committed over time. He explains how progress often comes slowly and why putting in consistent effort for ten years can lead to lasting success. We also explore how testing content can reveal valuable insights, ensuring the best ideas lead to effective execution across multiple platforms.

In this session of "Friday Training" I focused on the crucial elements of self-alignment, mentorship, and taking purposeful action. I shared how aligning our intentions and behaviors with our goals creates a pathway for growth, and how mentorship accelerates success by offering guidance and support. I also highlighted the importance of embracing divine timing and the power of consistently taking small, intentional steps. By adopting these principles, we can enhance both our personal and professional lives, staying flexible and open to the lessons that come our way. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: **https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1**

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Jack Canfield, world-renowned author of Chicken Soup for the Soul and a transformational speaker who has inspired millions. Jack shares his journey of helping others unlock their true potential and explains how we can remove the layers of ego and persona to discover our authentic selves. We discuss the importance of staying in a high vibration through gratitude, love, and appreciation, as well as practical ways to manifest the life we desire. Jack also reflects on his experiences with plant medicine and the powerful role forgiveness plays in releasing resentment and embracing growth.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Asheesh Advani, CEO of Junior Achievement Worldwide, at a VIP dinner in Boston to discuss the profound impact Junior Achievement has on empowering the next generation. We explore how mentorship and intentional networking can shape young leaders into economic change-makers. Asheesh shares insights on giving versus receiving, breaking the zero-sum game mindset, and embracing abundance to create opportunities for all. We touch on the importance of building connections across generations and how today's youth are poised to innovate in ways that will shape a better future for everyone.

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, I sit down with Jay Abraham, one of the most renowned business and marketing strategists, to discuss the evolution of personal development and performance enhancement. We explore how the industry has shifted from broad motivational concepts to a refined, tactical approach targeting specific areas for growth. Jay shares his insights on commanding more value, building a brand, and creating a social silo by focusing on intention and adding value before compensation. We also touch on the significance of trust, serving others, and understanding the energetic nuances of marketing in today’s interconnected world. Jay emphasizes the importance of curiosity, service, and integrity in achieving long-lasting success.

In today’s episode, I sit down with James Maslow, known for his roles in Big Time Rush and Sequestered, to explore the balance between reacting to life’s challenges and embracing creativity. James shares how his experiences in acting and music have shaped his ability to react with compassion and understanding. We discuss the importance of mentorship, the power of empathy over frustration, and how blending logic with creativity helps unlock potential in both business and art. James also reflects on the value of family, community, and long-term success, emphasizing the need to approach life with a balance of discipline and creativity, whether in personal or professional endeavors.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Guy Kawasaki, chief evangelist of Canva, author, and host of the Remarkable People podcast. We explore the grit, growth, and grace needed to be truly remarkable. Guy shares insights on the value of getting things done rather than just dreaming, balancing wisdom with action, and the importance of education in shaping success. We discuss the changing landscape of degrees and the significance of meeting new people. Guy also touches on the role of psychology and human nature in business, as well as how consistency and creativity lead to productivity and lasting impact.