The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I sat down with actor, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur Hunter Clowdus to explore the profound impact of genuine kindness and embracing our flaws. Hunter discusses facing the sea of "No's" in entertainment, emphasizing the growth during setbacks and the beauty of the journey. He speaks of the importance of personal development and valuing actions over outside validation. With tales from rec league leadership to rallying his current team, Hunter champions consistency as the cornerstone of success. Dive into a conversation that celebrates the process and the transformative power of self-belief.

In this episode, I discuss the power of consciousness to create positive progress. You’ll learn practical tools to understand and shape your behaviors, dissolve negative patterns, and unlock your potential for a more fulfilling life. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today's episode, I sit down with Stephen Jackson, the all-time rushing leader for the Rams. We delve deep into Jackson's transition from an iconic football career to becoming an entrepreneur, founding the unique lifestyle brand OBS. Stephen emphasizes originality, authenticity, and the transformative power of barbering in his mission to uplift communities. As he discusses his spirit of excellence, our conversation highlights the importance of showing up every day, self-improvement, and carrying a positive energy into business. Dive into this inspiring conversation to understand the essence behind Stephen Jackson's journey, and the brand that resonates with his principles.

Today's episode is an interview with former NBA star turned entrepreneur, Baron Davis, from my Apple TV show "Office Hours". We discuss his platform "Business Inside the Game," which helps him manage multiple ventures. Baron emphasizes community, advising that success comes from like-minded collaboration. We also explore life balance, likening it to playing offense and defense in sports. Don't miss this insightful conversation!

Today’s episode is from a recent guest speech at Columbia University. I highlight the five transformative practices of strategic thinking in compassionate capitalism that I've personally adopted and embraced. I share how I identify my personal and professional desires, the importance I place on building a like-minded community, and my approach to mastering time management. I also illustrate how I remain anchored in the “now,” as well as the methods I use to confront and overcome my fears. In this candid discussion, I provide insights on achieving financial success, nurturing a thriving community, and my personal journey to true happiness.

I sat down with the legendary Baron Baptiste, founder of Baptiste Power Yoga Institute. We dive deep into the realms of clarity, balance, and focus, discussing their pivotal roles in personal and professional success. Baron enlightens us on the transformative power of yoga, providing a fresh perspective on overcoming personal challenges and finding genuine equilibrium. We discuss the significant resistance faced by yoga and meditation, and Baron’s unwavering efforts to make these practices accessible and understood by all. He shares impactful insights on grounding oneself, cultivating a powerful “I am,” and the profound impact of yoga on changing personal frequency, outlook, and strength.

Maria Sharapova, one of the highest earning athletes in history, shares the business knowledge that she has accrued through her career, and how she positioned herself to learn from “heavy-hitters” outside of tennis, including NBA commissioner Adam Silver. Maria discusses what she’s learned building and scaling her company, Sugarpova, as well as the role of trust for entrepreneurial success.

Today’s episode is a special one! A throwback to July 2017 when I sat down with my late mentor and hero Bob Proctor. We dive into Bob’s early ambitions, the importance of doing things for ourselves, and the transformative journey of Bob borrowing $1000 of startup money to achieve remarkable success. Our discussion also explores the essence of understanding and reshaping our subconscious beliefs to unlock a world of possibilities. Tune in for a blend of personal anecdotes and timeless wisdom, aimed at inspiring a new perspective towards personal growth and success.

In this episode I highlight the essentials of thriving in community and sales. I break down the “5 To Thrive” system, outlining the step-by-step process to stimulate and transition interest effectively by targeting open minds through various platforms. I share indispensable insights into asking the right questions to gauge openness and transition that interest, leading to a shared vision. Emphasizing the importance of response and avoiding assumptions, I guide you through sharing a vision with potential leads and ensuring its realization. Tune in and take steps towards thriving with me!

Today's episode is from a conversation with Ed Hart, host of the “From The Hart” podcast. In our discussion, I openly recount my journey from prosperity to bankruptcy and back again. I share the striking moment of clarity upon seeing a pocket-less jacket, a symbolic gift from my father, leading to a profound sense of self-reckoning followed by prayer. Through my rediscovery of gratitude, empathy, accountability, and effective communication, I transformed my life and redirected my path to success and fulfillment. I highlight the essential practice of empathy, particularly in my marriage, and the power of gratitude in creating abundance.

Today's episode is from a conversation on the Committed Podcast with JC Hite. I open up about my early commitment to financial security, born from a childhood of scarcity. Despite achieving wealth, I felt unfulfilled, living in a mindset of scarcity while appearing to have abundance. I share my transformative journey from losing myself in material success to re-engineering my commitment, focusing on gratitude, forgiveness, control, and faith. I highlight the fundamental shifts I made, prioritizing time with family and self-care and aiming for true fulfillment and happiness. Join us as I recount the profound realizations and changes in my commitments, leading to a life of genuine abundance and joy.

I sat down with Michael Unbroken, a renowned advocate for survivors of childhood trauma and host of The Unbroken Podcast. We delve into the depths of vulnerability, the power of genuine connections, and the weight of our emotional addresses. Reflecting on personal journeys, we discuss seeking affirmation, the essence of true relationships, and the importance of self-validation. Join us as Michael shares insights from his traumatic experiences and the lessons he's drawn from them, emphasizing the significance of actions over words. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation about self-worth, trauma, and emotional anchoring.

Today's episode is from a conversation with Brett O’Brien, CMO of Frito-Lay North America. We delve into Brett's fascinating journey from sports marketing to leading some of the world's most iconic snack brands. Brett describes how he approaches career growth as "building your own tool belt" of experiences and transferable skills. We also explore the concept of brand building, and the importance of finding a frequency grounded in shared values. Brett shares Frito-Lay's impactful investments in social causes, like the advancement of women's sports, and how to stay relevant in today's rapidly evolving marketplace.

Today’s episode if from a conversation I back in 2018 with the former President of Starbucks Howard Behar. We discuss the secrets to building a “people-focused business”, and the strategies he used to scale Starbucks from having 28 stores to over 15,000 in 56 countries and the global force it is today. Howard discusses the principles of servant leadership that are essential for every leader, as well as the importance of having a plan for your life.

I sat down with Cory Bengtzen, President of Skyshare, to discuss the evolution of private aviation in today's gig economy. We delve into Skyshare's innovative approach to making private flying more affordable through a timeshare-like fractional program. Cory shares how private aviation is not just a luxury but a time-saving necessity for frequent travelers, highlighting the benefits of privacy and efficiency. We also talk about choosing the right business partners, the future of electric VTOL air-crafts in local travel, and the valuable advice Cory would give to his younger self. Tune in to discover why private flying might be more accessible and beneficial than you think. You can learn more about Skyshare at https://www.skyshare.com.

In this episode, I dive into enriching conversations with David Moreno, Lacey Book, Fredrik Haren, and Craig Siegel. We discuss the transformative power of having a home studio, the essence of creativity, and the profound lessons learned from global travel. Fredrik shares his insights into embracing a global mindset and connecting worldwide, while Craig emphasizes the power of mindset and choosing a different narrative. Lacey and David provide thoughtful perspectives on overcoming rejection, and Dr. Marcus Collins unpacks the intricate dynamics of culture and its influence on our worldviews and interactions. To join my future Friday sessions, register for free at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training

Today's episode is from a conversation with Leila and Alex Hormozi, the power couple behind Acquisition.com. We dive deep into the art and science of leadership, focusing on the critical role that people and culture play in business success. Leila emphasizes the value of talent acquisition, stating that strategy is born from people, while Alex shares his journey from being a 'dictator' to an approachable leader. Together, they offer an inside look at how they've scaled their companies, discussing the balance of external and internal vision, and the importance of investing time in long-term projects. Tune in to explore how to build a thriving team and organization.

I sat down with entrepreneur and business coach Nathan Mansfield to discuss the roller-coaster of my career journey. From becoming a millionaire nine months after college, to paying a hefty "dummy tax" of $100 million and filing for bankruptcy, my life story is a testament to the power of self-belief and the relentless pursuit of potential. Nathan and I delve deep into understanding time, the importance of maintaining a positive self-image, and how our beliefs shape our heartset and mindset. I reveal the formula to turn setbacks into setups, and emphasize the power of consistency through establishing a routine that zeros in on your skills, knowledge, and desires to achieve your goals.

Today’s episode is from a conversation I had back in 2018 with sports broadcasting legend Dan Patrick, host of the Dan Patrick Show. We talked about his winding career path to ESPN, how he dealt with rejection as a young man, and how he teamed up with Full Sail University to create a modern Sports Broadcasting program to provide the next generation of sportscasters with the right tools to compete in the media industry.

Today's episode is from a conversation with Darleen Santore, aka Coach Dar, Best-Selling Author and World Renowned Mental Skills Coach. We highlight the three pivotal levels of occupational therapy and mindset: Intelligence, Intuition, and Inspiration. Coach Dar emphasizes the power of re-framing and the importance of pattern recognition in tapping into our intuition. We discuss the transformative impact of focusing on the positive over the negative circumstances in life and relationships, highlighting the beauty in embracing gratitude and the art of looking for what we truly desire. You can learn more about Coach Dar’s work at www.coachdar.com

Today’s episode is from a conversation with Daniel Farber, during the PropTech 360 webinar. We define the servant mindset, its pivotal role in shaping real estate and sports sectors, and its foundational pillars: acknowledgment, appreciation, and asking. We delve into the transformative power of using technology as an ally and a servant that amplifies our skills, knowledge, and desires, while placing the spotlight on AI's potential in modern marketing and operations. We also discuss how fostering a culture that champions pillars of gratitude, empathy, and effective communication is instrumental in aligning business practices with core values through a servant-driven approach.

Today's episode is from a conversation with James Jiang, the credit GOAT and CEO of Limitless Financial Solutions. We delve deep into the transformative power of credit. From James's humble beginnings working entry-level jobs to leveraging credit for financial freedom, he unravels myths surrounding establishing credit, repairing credit, and navigating clients through bankruptcy. He shares invaluable tips for young adults to establish wealth and we discuss the synergy of e-commerce and credit. Join us as we explore the journey of turning liabilities into assets by harnessing the potential of credit.

In this episode, I share my insights on the benefits of forgiveness, providing practical strategies to navigate past pain and create a future filled with healing and personal growth. You’ll learn how forgiveness can not only liberate our own light but also liberate others, building a brighter world for us all. To join my future Friday sessions, register for free at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training

Today's episode is from a conversation I had on the Chatabout Children with Sonia Bestulic podcast, delving into the art of raising empowered, resilient children. We explore the notion of balancing ferocious pursuit with serene surrender, redefining children's relationships with money, and nurturing an abundant mindset. Join us as we discuss the power of words, the significance of being radically humble, and how to instill values of gratitude, responsibility, and forgiveness. We highlight the essence of living with focus, yet maintaining a healthy detachment, all in the quest to raise the next generation of insightful, resilient beings.

Today's episode is from a conversation I had at The National Trading Convention with Nat Turner, the influential CEO of Collectors, and Brian Ludden, the visionary CEO and Founder of Ludex. We dive deep into the tech-driven revolution in collecting, the irresistible pull of nostalgia and Americana, and the priceless value of tangible collectibles in a digital age. Brian shares insights on Ludex's innovations, like the game-changing eBay connector, and I share a bold prediction about a certain baseball card's future value. This is a journey through the past, present, and future of collecting that you won’t want to miss if you’re an avid collector.

Today's episode is from a Q&A session I hosted with Ryan Serhant (Sell it Like Serhant), Lisa DeMayo (Network Marketing Expert), and Zach Weiner (Cofounder & President, Overtime) at a private VIP dinner I recently hosted in New York City. Ryan discusses his national real estate expansion journey, which illustrates how chance, intent, and thinking ahead will yield amazing results. Lisa offers her take on staying motivated through continually seeking out inspiration, and knowing when to let go of what’s holding her back. Zach highlights the importance of making an impact through his work while working with a team that shares a common goal. Together, they shed light on their collective ability to stay focused, motivated, and thriving, both professionally and personally.

Today's episode is from a conversation I had with Phil DePaul, CEO of BoomZeal Enterprises Inc., and Joe Tolzmann, Founder and CEO of RocketPlan Technologies Inc. We dive into Phil's journey, rooted in personal development, alongside Joe's early entrepreneurial flair selling cartoon prints in grade school. Both of them highlight the pivotal role of lifelong learning and value-driven success. Our conversation underscores our personal journeys, with Phil attributing his success to his supportive upbringing and passion for personal growth, while Joe shares his determination to continuously learn and provide value to others.

Today's episode is from a conversation I had with Thais Eliasen, on her 'I Can't Believe It's You' podcast. I talk about my transformative journey: from a $100 million bankruptcy and losing my mom’s house to my journey to empower over a billion people to be happy. I talk about how my mom’s forgiveness inspired me to implement a “dummy tax” award at my company that rewards those who share their mistakes of the week and the valuable lessons that they learned from it. Thais and I also share a resonance on finding joy in simplicity, with an emphasis on gratitude and forgiveness.

Today's episode is from a conversation I had with Brandon Fugal, the Chairman of Colliers International. From starting in commercial real estate at 18 to becoming a leading industry figure, Brandon emphasizes the power of relationships, specialization, and leveraging technology to gain a competitive edge in today’s digital landscape. We discuss the importance of becoming a subject matter expert, seeking out mentorship, and Brandon explains how his compassionate capitalist approach uses real estate as both stewardship and a means to enrich communities.

In today’s episode, I host a Q&A session that stresses the importance of resonating lessons, aligning team goals, and the power of empathy in business and life. I elaborate on the virtues of consistency, the balance between absorbing environments and asking pivotal questions, and how our inherent value is deeply intertwined with how we use our time. Through stories of meeting influential figures and personal anecdotes, I highlight the essence of true leadership and overcoming the fears that limit our true potential. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

In today’s episode, I join Ken Eslick on The Leaders Lab Podcast for an interview about learning things the hard way. We discuss the early days of my career in which I fought relentlessly for my fair share with a scarcity mindset in what I thought was a zero-sum game. In this intimate conversation about past failures and lessons learned, I talk about the pivotal moments that reshaped my perspective, leading to my passion for empowering others by shifting to an abundance mindset.

Today's episode is from a recent conversation with Jeremy Blossom, CEO and Founder of Strikepoint Media. We discuss the intricacies of digital marketing and the importance of 'failing fast' through small-scale testing, managing clients expectations, and the art of building a personal brand. He emphasizes that success is not just about profit, but about passion and purpose.

Hey everyone! Today's episode is a throwback to August 2019 when I sat down with my good friend Gary Vaynerchuk and Pro Football Hall of Fame legend Champ Bailey. We talked about what it takes to be a great leader on and off the field and the recipe for successful teamwork. Text me your biggest takeaway from today's episode at (949) 298-2905 My upcoming travel and speaking schedule: https://dmeltzer.com/events

Today's episode is from a conversation I had with Cyd Tetro, CEO of Brandless Inc. and former Entrepreneur in Residence at The Walt Disney Company. We delve into the essence of successful fundraising, emphasizing trust, network, and integrity. Cyd shares her experiences and the challenges women face in accessing funding. We also touch on my initiative to support women entrepreneurs. Cyd's insights on resilience, authentic leadership, and the art of listening are truly enlightening. Join us for this inspiring discussion on entrepreneurship and breaking barriers. Learn more about Brandless: https://brandless.com/

In today's episode, I join the Jeff Fenster Show for an interview. Jeff and I have shared a friendship for over 30 years; he's like a younger brother to me. Our conversation was deeply honest, reflecting on moments when I've been at my best and worst. I recount a pivotal discussion with my wife during the 2008 recession when we were going bankrupt, emphasizing the value of acknowledging our errors and growing from them. This episode emphasizes that success isn't solely about financial gains but also personal development, resilience, and gratitude. And remember, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Listen to more episodes of the Jeff Fenster Show here: https://jefffenster.com/podcasts/

On today’s episode of The Playbook, I had a conversation with Peter Pernot-Day, the US Head of Strategic Communications at SHEIN. We discuss SHEIN's innovative approach to fashion, community building, sustainability, transparency, and the importance of direct engagement with customers. SHEIN’s unique approach to connecting with their customers utilizes AI technology, which is something I urge entrepreneurs to fully embrace in growing their business. Learn more about SHEIN: https://us.shein.com/

In this episode of The Playbook, I discuss personal growth and development. I emphasize the importance of capturing and accessing information that resonates with us, as well as the need to reduce judgment and focus on personal energy. Touching on detachment from outcomes, vulnerability, and the power of true caring, I share personal stories, and provide daily practices for success. This episode concludes with reflections on loss, gratitude, and the importance of kindness. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

Today's episode is from a conversation with Jim Oliver on his Breakaway Wealth Podcast, where I talk about my journey from a life of scarcity to a life of abundance. I weigh in with my philosophy of helping others, recognizing the power of gratitude, and how having faith in the future is the key to finding happiness.

Today’s episode is a conversation with Buster Scher at the National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago back in July 2023. We discussed how technology has revolutionized the collectibles industry, making it more accessible and driving up values and as more people and money flow into the hobby, we discuss the shift from short-term investors to long-term collectors. We also emphasized the importance of content and education in the collectibles space, and how it can help newcomers navigate this exciting industry. Learn more about Buster: https://www.instagram.com/buster/

Today’s episode is from a VIP dinner I hosted in July 2023 with a panel of experts, including John Assaraf, Forbes Riley, and soccer legend Chicarito. We discussed the connection between spirituality, mindset, and business success. We emphasize the importance of shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset, as well as managing our partnerships effectively in our day-to-day operations. We share personal stories and insights about our spiritual journeys, and the lessons we've learned. Key Moments: [14:00] Understanding and overcoming performance pressure, as shared by Chicarito in the context of his soccer career. [36:05] Forbes Riley revisits the importance of connecting with the right people for success. [47:26] Practical steps for improving decision-making skills and overcoming fear

On today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Alexander Steinforth, Managing Director of NFL Germany. We speak about the growth of the sport in Germany, and the role social media plays in the development of that popularity. We also talk about American Football’s history in Germany since the mid-90’s. Dr. Steinforth talks about the importance of local endorsements and sponsorships to engage the German audience in the sport. Lastly, we touch on the ability of American Football to unify fans all across the world, and now sell out stadiums in Germany. Key Moments: [4:02] The impact of video games and fantasy football on educating and engaging the German fan base. [7:23] The role of media strategy in Germany, focusing on network, social, and owned and operated channels. [10:19] How sponsorships and endorsements are managed in Germany, featuring a blend of global and domestic brands. [11:53] Efforts to adapt American football to German stadiums while incorporating local elements. [13:33] The incorporation of blockchain and AI technologies in NFL Germany to enhance fan experiences. [16:00] Differences in attitudes toward the secondary ticket market in Germany and the United States.

In this episode, Peter Tuchman, The "Einstein of Wall Street" and the Most Iconic Stock Broker at the NY Stock Exchange, and I speak about the fascinating world of stock trading, its evolution, and the impact of technology on the industry. We discussed the importance of financial education to avoid manipulation and scams. Peter encourages everyone to learn how to navigate the market themselves, a crucial skill in this digital age. Despite the rise of technology, Peter emphasized the irreplaceable value of human interaction in trading. Trust, he says, is a currency that no machine can replicate. Key Moments: [00:43] Outsourcing of human interaction due to technology and its impact on the stock market industry. [3:33] The lack of financial education and the need to help people understand the basics of trading and investing. [11:19] The importance of human interaction and connection in the stock market industry and the significance of one person connecting with another. [12:15] The importance of sharing experiences and lessons learned to help others avoid making the same mistakes. [13:26] The role of technology, specifically non-fungible tokens, in understanding markets and the potential for making more money, helping more people, and having more fun.

Today’s episode is a conversation with Mark Kirkham, SVP & Chief Marketing Officer of PepsiCo International Beverages. Mark emphasized that authenticity and relevance are the the most important factors in brand building and why in a fragmented media landscape, it's not enough to just look good; brands need to engage, tell stories, and drive relevance in new and innovative ways. We also discussed the power of community and how PepsiCo has mastered the art of understanding and engaging with their community across various platforms like sports, gaming, and music This episode was an MBA in marketing and brand building, and I'm excited for you to listen and apply these insights to your own brand-building journey.

During today’s episode, you’ll learn to identify your fears of the past and future and end them through the transformative practice of stop, drop, and roll. You will discover how to break free from limiting beliefs, enabling you to align with your true potential and live fearlessly in the present. To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at: https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

Today’s episode is from my interview on the Man of War Podcast hosted by Rafa Conde. We unravel the core principles that have shaped my journey. From understanding the pivotal role of accountability in our lives to shifting our perspectives from victimhood to victory, I aim to shed light on the transformative power of mindset. I've always believed that life presents us with lessons, and it's up to us to grasp them. Join me as I discuss the strength in vulnerability, the quest for purpose amidst our fears, and the undeniable impact of discipline and consistency in business and life.

On today's episode, I meet with Rene Rodriguez, Bestselling Author and Keynote Speaker. We discuss the importance of a company’s brand image and how to craft it. Rene speaks about the importance of effective communication in brand marketing and creating a story that inspires. We discuss the importance of authenticity and credibility when trying to influence customers or stakeholders in a brand. I close by stressing the importance of establishing your values for yourself and your brand.

In this episode, I hosted a Q&A meetup with my community in Chicago. I answered questions on various topics related to relationships, personal growth, and success. I share insights on handling disagreements with business partners, emphasizing the importance of values, accountability, and effective communication. I also talk about the significance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals and the power of learning from thought leaders. Throughout the episode, I share personal stories and experiences, including my daily practices for gratitude, forgiveness, accountability, and effective communication Join my text community to receive texts about future meetups: (949) 298-2905

Today’s episode is a conversation with Ken Kamada, CEO of aboutGOLF Simulators. I speak about my past experience owning a golf course and representing golfers. Ken talks about how moving to Seattle and how a humble paper route began his fiery entrepreneurial spirit. Together, we delve deep into the soulful essence of golf and explore how simulators are revolutionizing connections in the sport worldwide. We both speak about the importance of balancing entrepreneurial life and family life.

In this episode, I speak with Mark Salzberg, Chairman at NGC and Senior Grading Finalizer, about the growing collectible market. Mark and I speak about the prices realized in the market and how it has become a preferred asset class to collect and feel comfortable about. Mark explains the role of AI, databases, grading, and authentication in the space and how AI will significantly remove backlogs in the market. Lastly, we talk about emotional attachment to items and the role emotions play in the entire collectibles market.

In this episode, I sit down with motivational speaker James Dixon. We talk about being humble and kind. James tells his story of being an amputee and how he learned to be happy again. I mention how it's important to find your own purpose and not wait for others to define it for you. We discuss the value of learning and how knowledge stays with you. I also talk about wanting approval from family and others, and how we sometimes need to move past that need. We end by discussing how rejection can help us grow.