We’re sharing this guest episode again because it is full of such innovative and exciting medical advances that more of us should be aware of. If you didn't catch this one the first time, here is your chance. Dr. Timothy Nelson is the founder of HeartWorks, an organization that developed from the Todd & Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome founded at the Mayo Clinic in 2010. Tim’s work specializes in the creation of stem cells to create heart muscle and hopefully cure pediatric congenital heart defects in the near future.The HeartWorks team has developed a platform that enables multiple cell-based clinical trials to be conducted simultaneously in collaboration with a consortium of world-class medical institutions. Check out this short video that chronicles the transformative technology of bioengineered cardiac tissue by converting a piece of skin from an individual to a beating heart muscle.Dr. Nelson earned his MD and his Doctor of Philosophy from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and he’s been a physician at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN since 2005In this episode, Dr. Nelson dives into the incredibly exciting technology that he and his team at HeartWorks are working on in an effort to create positive outcomes for those born with congenital heart defects. Statistics show that 1 in 100 children are born with a congenital heart defect and 1 in 4 of those born with a CHD will require a life-saving surgical procedure within their first year of life. Even with these interventions, 50% of children born with CHD won’t make it to their fifth birthday. HeartWorks is working tirelessly to give children and adults with CHD a promising and fulfilling future.Dr. Nelson explains what exactly stem cells are, and how they are being used to have the potential to rebuild the heart. This is a fascinating episode, and I know you won’t want to miss it.Quote from the episode:“We are on the tip of an iceberg and when we show this model can work, it is catalytic” - Dr. Tim NelsonTo learn more about Dr. Tim Nelson, please see the links below:Website: heartworksinc.orgCase2Cure Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cause2cure/id1489215831LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-nelson-cause2cure/Facebook (personal): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010438424147To Connect with Mike:Website: https://mikemalatesta.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemalatesta/Get Mike’s book “Owner Shift”: https://mikemalatesta.com/owner-shift-book-by-mike-malatesta/Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, InstagramTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Today’s solo episode of the How’d It Happen podcast was inspired by Jordan Peterson and his book, titled “12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos. After reading this book, Mike felt drawn to create his own 12 rules of life, and in this episode, he breaks down his 12.5 rules of life. Those rules are:Hold doors open, look people in the eye, say hello, and smile.Words matter.Surround yourself with people you like and who care about you.Progress, not perfection.Be a parent that your child wants to emulate and not one that they feel they need to emulate.We've all got problems, but remember yours before you expose or take advantage of others.Shiny objects might be horseshit.How does doing this hard thing make me better?All progress starts with the truth.Take the best away from every interaction and leave the rest behindSay what you mean to the best of your abilityHave fun and be okay with it. Don't take yourself too seriously.And here's a bonus, Mike’s 12.5 rule of life: pay attention to what's in front of you, and be kind to whatever that is, to the best of your ability.Tune in as Mike breaks each of these down and explains why they are important to maximize the greatness in you.Episode resources:Book: 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote for Life by Jordan PetersonTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Kyle McDowell is a man who traded corporate might for the mightier power of collaborative leadership. Kyle shares all about his transformative journey, chronicled in his compelling book "Begin With We," where the shift from an 'I' focused worldview to a 'we' centered philosophy is not just theoretical but lived. In this episode, Kyle peels back the layers of leadership, examining how personal growth and professional excellence can indeed be synonymous when vulnerability and collective success are placed at the heart of one's ethos.Kyle and Mike dig into the raw and often unseen struggles leaders face when aligning personal values with the culture of the corporate giants they steer. Kyle recounts the turning point that led him to walk away from a high-profile role, sparking a drive to pen principles that now guide leaders toward more holistic and effective management styles. Hear the tales that breathe life into the "10 We's" framework and how embracing challenges within a team can build trust and forge stronger relationships, transforming skepticism into exemplary leadership.This conversation with Kyle traverses the emotional landscape from shame to liberation, underscoring the importance of small victories in the journey of self-discovery and confidence building. Kyle's personal narrative exemplifies how living one's professional principles in everyday life extends beyond the boardroom, shaping a legacy of integrity and authenticity. This episode is an invitation to leaders and change-makers alike to embrace action, accountability, and excellence, inspiring a new wave of leadership that is as empowering as it is effective.Key highlights:Discovering Purpose]Corporate America Transformation StoryNavigating Career Changes and ChallengesBreaking the Cycle of Bad LeadershipEstablishing Workplace Principles for AccountabilityNavigating Personality Conflicts in LeadershipFostering Strong Professional RelationshipsNavigating Self-Doubt and Imposter SyndromePersonal Principles in Professional LifeEmbracing Mistakes for Team GrowthConnect with Kyle McDowell:Get his book: Begin with WEWebsite: kylemcdowellinc.comInstagram: @kylemcdowellincTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

In this solo episode, Mike dives into a topic that is near and dear to his heart, and that is when people call their business “small.” Businesses come in all sizes, but none of them are small. Politicians like to refer to small businesses, and how they are the backbone of our economy, and they can talk about business as they wish, but the problem comes in when business owners talk about their own businesses as small. Why does this matter? Because words matter! What you say and how you describe yourself matters and reflects how you think about yourself. You are not small, and your business isn’t either. Every business started with a big idea, and even though you may have started small, continuing to describe yourself as small will eventually make your thinking small. Over time, thinking small can become a crutch or an excuse upon which to lean instead of making constant progress, learning new things, or making the business as productive and impactful as it can be. Small is not about the size of your company. It's about the size of your thinking. Mike offers a great mental reframe to stop thinking of your business, and therefore yourself, as “small.”To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

The unfathomable drive required to complete the Ironman World Championship and the tenacity needed to catapult a startup from inception to a successful exit; Steven Pivnik embodies both. As he unfolds his story from his early days as an immigrant, grappling with new beginnings, to his transformation into an acclaimed entrepreneur and endurance athlete, Steven lets us in on the parallels between the discipline required for athletic training and orchestrating a company's growth. His journey is a masterclass in leveraging failure as fuel and the pivotal role of strong relationships and strategic foresight in achieving success.Programming may seem galaxies away from the grit of endurance sports, yet Steven draws an unexpected connection. His story traverses the evolution from a computer programming enthusiast to a trailblazer in the tech industry, founding Binary Tree. But it's not just about the code – it's about the human element, the art of networking that transformed Steven from a corporate programmer to a business magnate. His shift from a sedentary lifestyle to competing in one of the most grueling athletic events on the planet, the Ironman World Championship, mirrors his business acumen – calculated, relentless, and with a vision that far surpasses the finish line."Built to Finish" is more than a book title for Steven, it's a credo. The process of penning his story was as introspective as it was informative, offering a lens into the synergy of an entrepreneurial and athletic mindset. As Steven shares how he set towering goals and meticulously charted a path to achieve them, listeners are invited to reflect on their own potential and the power of manifestation. His journey is a testament to the belief that within each of us lies the capability to unlock greatness, and it's a story that's sure to leave you contemplating the finish lines you're destined to cross.Key highlights:Immigrant Entrepreneur and Endurance AthleteEarly Computer Programming Career and EntrepreneurshipSuccess Through Relationships and Custom ProjectsEntrepreneur Turns AthleteManifestation and AchievementConnect with Steven Pivnik:Get his book: Built to FinishWebsite: stevenpivnik.comLinkedIn: Steven PivnikTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Have you ever tried to learn from the future? Probably not, because it is hard to learn from something that has yet to happen. We can imagine the future and create it, but we can’t use it as a lesson. What about the present? The present is fleeting and happening right now at this moment, so it’s not something we can really learn from either. What we can definitely learn from is the past. The past has all the lessons of what has happened, and it is like a library that we can learn from. We can study success, failures, and everything in between, and take note of how we can improve.We have all heard the saying “history repeats itself”, but if we really think about it, it’s actually human nature that repeats itself. History tends to repeat itself because we as humans, repeat ourselves and make the same mistakes as those that came before us. By studying history, we can try to avoid the mistakes of the past and get the benefit of taking valuable lessons to become better.Key Highlights:Mike shares a podcast he listens to called “Founders” and what he has learned from tuning itMike uses the lessons from history to ask “How can I take them to be better?”Why it is important to study the past?Links mentioned in the episode:Podcast: FoundersTo Connect with Mike:Website: https://mikemalatesta.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemalatesta/Get Mike’s book “Owner Shift”: https://mikemalatesta.com/owner-shift-book-by-mike-malatesta/To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Markus Kaulius is an entrepreneur and bodybuilder, and in this episode, he shares his remarkable story of how he channeled his turbulent past into a catalyst for growth and success. He reveals the power of owning your history, the importance of shedding societal expectations to find your true self, and the critical role of action in turning knowledge into tangible change. This episode is an awakening to the undeniable fact that each of us has an irreplaceable role on this planet, and the world needs the authentic 'you' to step forward. Listen in as Mike and Markus discuss how life's toughest challenges can often be the most unexpected blessings, offering resilience and shaping our future in ways we might never have anticipated. Markus reflects on his experiences, from the struggles of parental divorce to the lessons learned that have forged his identity as a husband and father. He also tackles the transformative power of self-belief, the courage to break free from societal labels, and the necessity of surrounding ourselves with mentors and like-minded individuals. It's a conversation that underscores the transformative power of authenticity and the importance of aligning with those who nurture our growth.In this powerful episode, Markus  and Mike also touch on the interplay between personal growth, relationships, and professional success. They share insights on the importance of self-care, particularly for parents, and how prioritizing our well-being allows us to be more present and impactful in the lives of those we love. From personal narratives of overcoming adversity to entrepreneurial spirit, this episode covers it all. So, tune in, be inspired, and let's activate the greatness within.Key highlights:Uncovering AuthenticityFinding Blessings in Life's ChallengesDiscovering and Embracing Authentic SelfPersonal Growth Through Life ExperiencesIntegrity and Community in HealthConnect with Markus Kaulius:LinkedIn: Markus KauliusTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Are you someone that stays charged, or someone that needs charging? That is the question of today’s solo episode. As humans, we don’t have actual batteries that need charging, but we know there are certain things that recharge us, such as rest and restorative practices. We have some sort of energy source within us, but for some people, it doesn’t seem that way.The way Mike sees it is that there are two kinds of people: the “batteries included” group, and the “batteries not included” group. Those that come with batteries know how to get themselves going and how to motivate others to get going. We feel enlightened around them. They are autonomous and self-starters. Those in the “batteries not included” group tend to have the opposite effect on others. We feel drained, deflated, and progress always feels so much more difficult. Which one are you? Chances are, you want to say you come with batteries and light other people up because we all aspire to be that way. Make sure you know how to keep your battery charged and light the way for others. Mike wants you to be a person that is a catalyst for change and great things, so how can he help you stay connected and charged? Tune in for more!Key Highlights:The difference between “batteries included” people and “batteries not included” people Do you choose to keep your energy fresh, charged, and connected? Mike asks: Which kind of person are you? How can Mike help you stay fully connected and fully charged?To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Picture this: you’re standing at a crossroads in your career, wondering if the path to fulfillment lies in the confines of your office or out in the vast world of possibilities. Kevin McGoff, Mike’s esteemed guest, takes you on his personal expedition from a bustling law career to a tranquil retirement, revealing the profound lessons learned about cultivating a purposeful life. Kevin traverses topics from the impact of his father's '50-50 guy' philosophy to the stark cultural contrasts between America's and France's interpretations of busyness and identity. His transition serves as a guiding light for professionals seeking to enrich their lives beyond their work desks.Navigating the legal labyrinth comes with its share of hidden pressures and ethical quicksand. This episode pulls back the curtain on these professional challenges and the crucial role of seeking counsel within the practice. This discussion illuminates the transformative power of professional coaching, a journey Mike has personally undertaken with life-altering results. Together, Kevin and Mike dissect the complexities of law firm dynamics, the gratification of personal development through coaching, and how embracing guidance can lead to expansive personal and professional growth.Kevin's role as an author unfolds in a heartening narrative, touching on how his book has profoundly influenced readers, like a retiring doctor who found solace in its chapters. Such stories underscore the importance of acknowledging the mentors who shape our journeys. Key highlights:Kevin's Journey to SuccessTransitioning to a New Career PassionLife's Parallel Runways and StrategyLawyers and Financial StrugglesConnect with Kevin McGoff::Get Kevin’s book: surlaroutekm.com/my-bookFacebook: facebook.com/kevin.mcgoff.5Instagram: @kevin_mcgoffTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

We have been taught to trade our time for money, but there comes the point where we are allowing a disservice to ourselves by operating this way. The more of an expert we become in our field, the less time it takes us to reach a result, and that result is usually of higher quality than what others with less experience can provide. By continuing to trade our time for money, we will need to put in more and more of our time to reach our desired income.In this episode, Mike encourages you to trade your expertise and value for money instead of the time it takes you to provide a service or result. People typically don’t ask you how long it took you to reach expert status in your industry, they usually ask how long it will take you to complete the task, but we need to provide a reframe for this way of thinking. Mike walks you through how to convey your value and expertise, and justify premium pricing for the experience that you have, instead of the time it takes you to get a result. Quote from the episode: “Don't charge for your time, charge for your result.”Key Highlights:To make a fortune, trading hours for money will take a great deal of your timeThe more expert you become, the less time it takes you to do somethingIf we charge by the hour as an experienced person, we lose moneyWe need to take a lesson from Picasso’s rules: value your expertise on your outcome and the result and not the number of hours Mike explains how to get past your client's thought processing of paying by the hour  To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Discover how Michael Santos, a man who once faced a 26-year prison term, emerged as a triumphant author, educator, and voice for reform. Michael's gripping tale of transformation from a convicted drug trafficker to a beacon of hope and change is a journey you won't want to miss. His candid revelations about the pivotal moments that spurred his profound metamorphosis offer a stark reminder that the human spirit can prevail over the darkest of circumstances. Tune in for an episode that will challenge your perceptions and inspire you with the raw power of resilience and self-redemption.In this conversation, Michael and Mike explore the intricate dance between accountability and the criminal justice system through the lens of personal experience and unwavering commitment to growth. Michael shares the wisdom gleaned from mentorship and his unwavering pursuit of knowledge, even amidst the harshness of prison life. Listeners will be drawn into a world where education paves the path to new beginnings, and mentorship becomes the cornerstone of a future unshackled from past transgressions. His life serves as a blueprint for crafting opportunities and harnessing the strength within to transcend adversity.Michael’s advocacy for a merit-based correctional system and the implications for society come to the forefront. This segment explores the necessity of reform to reflect the values of hard work and opportunity that define the American spirit. Entrepreneurs and business owners will appreciate Michael's insights on the fine line between success and legal scrutiny, emphasizing the need for vigilance and ethical practice in their endeavors. Tune in for a compelling narrative that will leave you pondering the essence of success, the significance of second chances, and the transformative potential of personal empowerment.Key highlights:From Struggle to SuccessBreaking the Law and Facing ConsequencesJourney Through Legal Troubles and RedemptionFinding Redemption Through Education and MentorshipCreating Opportunities Through Self-EmpowermentReforming the Prison System for SuccessConnect with Michael Santos:Website: prisonprofessors.com | earningfreedomcorp.com | michaelsantos.comLinkedIn: Michael SantosTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Discover the incredible ascent of Cameron Bawden, who at 21 years old, armed with nothing but audacity and a single truck, built a pest control empire and a collection of flourishing companies. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs, as Cameron joins Mike to share the highs and lows of his remarkable journey. From his initial foray into the competitive Arizona market with door-to-door sales to his mastery of customer service and savvy business scaling, you're in for a masterclass on transforming trials into triumphs.Cameron's narrative is more than a business blueprint; it's a chronicle of personal evolution, shaped by unforeseen challenges and the resolve to push through adversity. Witness the strategic finesse that guided him through financial turmoil and the resilience it took to recover from a crippling investor pullout. The episode delves into the emotional nuances of entrepreneurship, from the weight of personal investment to the quest for balance amidst rapid growth, providing poignant insights that resonate beyond the boardroom.Cameron Bawden's journey is not just an account of building successful businesses, it's a testament to the indomitable spirit that drives the world's most innovative leaders.Key highlights:Entrepreneurial Journey From Real EstateLearning and Growing in BusinessFunding Green Mango Success Through DiligenceEntrepreneur's Journey of Growth and ChallengesBusiness Struggles and TriumphsConnect with Cameron Bawden:LinkedIn: Cameron BawdenInstagram: @greenmangopestcontrolTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

When Mike first stepped into the world of Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, he was struck by the sheer warmth and impeccable service that seemed to flow effortlessly throughout the establishment. It's this very essence of Meyer's enlightened hospitality that Mike is eager to discuss, celebrating the Five A's that have redefined customer service: Awareness, Anticipation, Acknowledgment, Action, and Accountability. Meyer's philosophy is not just about serving food with a smile; it's a testament to the power of genuine care and connection in every interaction. This episode is an ode to the man whose principles in hospitality extend beyond the dining room into our daily lives, touching everyone from employees to the community at large.To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Ever felt the rush of a Eureka moment that rewired your entire career path? That's the spark igniting today's chat with Michelle Nedelec, an entrepreneurial alchemist who turns the base metals of budding businesses into gold. She takes us on a whirlwind tour of her origin story, from an ambitious plan involving dental dreams and global escapades, to the serendipitous pivot that led her into the realm of financial services and beyond. The tale is a masterclass in adaptability and seizing the right opportunities—even when they're not the ones you were originally gunning for.Michelle's advice intertwines strategy, systems, support, and the pivotal state of mind. She covers marketing mishaps and the epiphanies that arise from them, like finding that one winning product that can launch your venture into the stratosphere. Michelle's infectious laughter peppers our journey as we scrutinize Apple's playbook, navigate the nuances of niche markets, and sail through the choppy waters of operational integration—all while keeping an eye on the prize of strategic growth and the dream exit.Remember it's not just about the destination but the greatness we harness along the way. Michelle leaves you with pearls of wisdom on tailor-made solutions for diverse entrepreneurial challenges, ensuring no listener walks away empty-handed. So, while you're plotting your next business move or dreaming up a venture that could change your life, take a leaf out of Michelle's book—and don't forget, the journey to success is always worth the ride.Key highlights:Entrepreneurial Journey in Electronic RetailFinancial Services Career TransformationValue of Problem Solving in BusinessPhases of Small Business GrowthNavigating Business Direction for GrowthConnect with Michelle Nedelec:Website: michellenedelec.comCompany website: awarenessstrategies.comLinkedIn: Michelle NedelecTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Unlock the secrets to extinguishing the 'dumpster fires' in your business with Mike on this Free Thinking Friday edition of the How’d It Happen podcast. Prepare to arm yourself with the knowledge to not only identify but also eliminate the messy, chaotic situations that chip away at your company's value and success. In this dynamic explanation, Mike dives into why the best in the business—A-players—steer clear of companies riddled with these fires and why savvy buyers won't invest in entities that are ablaze with issues.To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Have you ever heard “Your network is your net worth?” Well it’s true. The magnetic pull of genuine human connection and business growth are greatly related. Join Mike and his remarkable guest, Steve Ramona, as they unravel the power of networking with a servant's heart. Steve, the prolific host of "Doing Business with a Servant's Heart" podcast and "Together We Serve" TV show, brings to the table his unconventional 'reverse serving' philosophy, which could revolutionize your approach to networking and expanding your business.During this insightful chat, Steve and Mike tackle the unspoken intricacies of customer service and personal transformation, drawing from Steve’s experiences managing a family health club where simply remembering a customer's name could turn the tables. Ferrying a durable network from one business endeavor to the next, he touches upon the subtle art of listening and the compounding effect of improving by just 1% daily. This philosophy doesn't just build success; it forges long-standing relationships rooted in value creation, which is the cornerstone of every thriving network.Steve and Mike also delve into the heart of servant leadership, discussing how leading with generosity and empathy can bring forth waves of unexpected opportunities. Buckle up and prepare to be moved, amused, and above all, transformed by the stories and strategies shared in this must-listen episode.Key highlights:Exploring Success Through Networking and ServingBuilding Relationships for Business GrowthPower of Networking for SuccessNetworking and Podcasting Strategies for SuccessThe Power of Servant LeadershipPower of Serving and NetworkingConnect with Steve Ramona:Website: intouchpad.comPodcast: servinginbusinesspodcast.comLinkedIn: Steve RamonaTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Have you ever envisioned the perfect exit from your business, only to be bogged down by the daunting unknowns? Turn that dream into a plan with the red, gold, and green thinking method. In this episode, Mike takes you through the transformative power of this simple, 30-minute strategy that could revolutionize your entrepreneurial journey. Through a candid reality check (red), a visionary future check (gold), and a decisive action check (green), you'll learn to conduct a thorough self-evaluation of your company's present state and set actionable goals towards a fulfilling exit strategy. Say goodbye to the 'focusing illusion' and hello to a path that charts towards your business aspirations with clarity and purpose.To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Join Mike as he welcomes Ken Rusk, the champion of blue-collar pride and author of "Blue Collar Cash." Ken shares his transformative journey from ditch digger to entrepreneurial success, proving that college isn't the only path to a fulfilling and prosperous life. Ken and Mike take a deep look into the essence of hard work, the art of setting and achieving goals, and the underrated value of blue-collar vocations. Ken's story is not just about making a living; it's about crafting a life of comfort, peace, and freedom.In this discussion, Mike and Ken tap into the critical life skills often overlooked in traditional education—such as independence, visualization, and proactive planning. They talk about the power of visualizing one's future, from saving for that first big purchase as a kid to aligning personal dreams with your career path. This conversation will challenge your thinking on personal agency and the importance of documenting and regularly reviewing your aspirations. They also touch on how businesses can thrive when individual and company goals are in harmony, creating a dynamic environment where everyone's working toward a shared vision.Listen in as Ken addresses the current state of workforce education and its implications on the trades. He recounts his own circuitous route from plumbing to the corporate world and back again, while he dissects the societal pressures pushing young people towards college and away from trades. Ken brings philosophical depth to this chat, discussing the power of a 'you and only you' mindset and the significance of impacting lives beyond just running a successful business. Whether you're in the blue-collar world, dreaming of starting your own venture, or somewhere in between, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate with and inspire you.Key highlights:Blue Collar Entrepreneur Success StoryBuilding Independence and Achieving GoalsImplementing Individual and Company GoalsSuccessful Business, Impacting LivesThe Crisis in Workforce EducationFrom Digging Ditches to EntrepreneurConnect with Ken Rusk:Website: kenrusk.comGet Ken’s book: Blue Collar Cash: Love Your Work, Secure Your Future, and Find Happiness for LifeTo Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

Have you ever been so caught up in extinguishing day-to-day fires in your business that the thought of planning your exit seems like a distant dream? It's a common trap for entrepreneurs, but today's discussion is all about breaking free from that survival mindset to achieve a "dream exit" that aligns with both your financial goals and personal fulfillment. In this solo episode, Mike dives into the critical components of exiting your business with success, shedding light on the perils of 3F thinking—fires, fears, and folly—that can sabotage your future. With 81% of entrepreneurs regretting their lack of exit preparation, Mike presents reflective questions designed to steer you toward a strategic exit plan, enhancing your business's value and ensuring a smooth transition.To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter

When the time comes to pass the torch of your business, the journey involves much more than a transaction—it's a transformation. Join Mike Malatesta as he sits down with Laurie Barkman, the insightful business transition sherpa, to illuminate the often-overlooked facets of preparing for a business handover. This discussion spans the emotional landscape business owners traverse, blending wisdom from the late Charlie Munger with personal anecdotes and expert strategies to equip you for a seamless transition. Ascending to a top executive role isn't a mere step; it's a leap enveloped in self-reflection and resilience. Laurie and Mike peel back the layers of what it takes to not only land that CEO chair but to also thrive within it. Hear from Laurie about the formidable hurdles of an executive search and the tenacity required to steer through them. This candid conversation offers a blueprint for transformational leadership—from squaring off against self-doubt to aligning your inner compass with the demands of the C-suite. Laurie’s own metamorphosis from navigating corporate mergers to carving out a niche in entrepreneurship infuses this episode with real-life tales of growth and innovation. These experiences have sculpted both her podcast 'Succession Stories' and her book "The Business Transition Handbook," serving as a conduit for knowledge and inspiration to our listeners. For those charting their course through the business world's shifting tides, tune in to this episode for guidance.Key highlights:Business Transition and Succession PlanningPrepare and Land a CEO PositionEvolution of a PodcastCharlie Munger's Legacy Book and WritingTransition Planning Services for Business OwnersConnect with Laurie Barkman:Website: thebusinesstransitionsherpa.comPodcast: Succession StoriesBook: The Business Transition Handbook: How to Avoid Succession Pitfalls and Create Valuable Exit OptionsYou can get Laurie’s book by texting the word “transition” to 762-320-2826To Connect with Mike: WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterYouTubeCoachingGet Mike’s book: Owner Shift Please LIKE 👍SHARE 📲SUBSCRIBE to stay updated on all LIVE Streams on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter