Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Real Business Connections

Learn Speak Teach Episode #162 with Aleasha Bahr on the Real Business Connections Podcast.

Sales does not have to feel pushy, fake, scripted, or aggressive.

In this episode, Ben Albert sits down with Aleasha Bahr, founder of Black Sheep Sales, to talk about alternative ways to win clients without acting like a douche. Aleasha helps entrepreneurs, business owners, and sales professionals grow by selling in a way that actually fits their personality, values, and strengths.

Aleasha breaks down why every personality can be great at sales, why introverts often make incredible salespeople, and why sales is really about curiosity, empathy, passion, and fit. Instead of forcing people through a script or “overcoming objections” like a battle, Aleasha shows how better questions, honest conversations, and clear expectations can create more trust and better clients.

Ben and Aleasha also talk about rejection, bad-fit clients, deliverables vs. results, customer retention, sales positioning, and why being willing to repel the wrong people can actually help you attract the right ones.

If you want to grow your business, win more clients, and sell with confidence without becoming someone you’re not, this Black Sheep Sales conversation is for you.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[01:10] Ben’s Bad Sales Scripts

[03:10] Why Pushy Sales Fails

[05:08] The Perfect Way to Sell

[06:37] Why Introverts Sell Well

[08:33] Stop Fighting Objections

[10:34] If It’s a Fit, It’s a Fact

[11:37] Finding the Right Fit

[14:53] Rejection Goes Both Ways

[18:25] Sales Is More Than the Sale

[24:07] Positioning and Expectations

[28:05] Turn Deliverables Into Results

[31:34] Repelling the Wrong Clients

[32:52] Trust What Feels Aligned

[35:33] Connect with Aleasha

Key Takeaways:  

• “Sales is listening, not talking.” ~Aleasha Bahr

• Every personality can be great at sales when they understand their strengths and weaknesses. ~Aleasha Bahr

• The perfect way to sell is the way that feels aligned with you while still clearly communicating the heart of the message. ~Aleasha Bahr

• Curiosity turns objections into conversations instead of battles. ~Aleasha Bahr

• “If it’s a fit, it’s a fact and there’s no selling involved.” ~Aleasha Bahr

• Rejection goes both ways. You also have the power to decide if a prospect is the right fit for you. ~Aleasha Bahr

• Deliverables do not sell as well as outcomes. People want the result behind the meeting, kickoff, or process. ~Aleasha Bahr

• What is in alignment for you is usually what will work best in sales. ~Aleasha Bahr

Keep In Touch with Aleasha Bahr:

Website: https://aleashabahr.com/

Black Sheep Sales Book: https://blacksheepsalesbook.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aleashabahr/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleashabahr/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sales-is-not-a-dirty-word/id1440616027

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bahraleasha/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aleashabahr

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

BookThinkers Live 2026 was BEYOND one of my favorite events of all time... In tribute, we're replaying some of our FAVORITE episodes highlighting some of this year's amazing speakers. Binge Away!

Learn Speak Teach Episode #85 with Nick Hutchison.

Watch the episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/8Y8-iX0tVXs

During this episode, you will learn about:

[02:51] Nick’s book, Rise of the Reader: https://bit.ly/46NKXyI

[03:37] Favorite book Nick has read in 2023: Be Useful: https://bit.ly/3TehCL0

[05:08] Nick Hutchison’s bio

[06:43] What prompted Nick to start reading books?

[09:26] Why implementing the knowledge gained from books is important

[11:43] The power of intention when choosing the right book to read

[12:05] How to start implementing the knowledge gained from books using the SMART goal framework

[17:17] Nick’s advice for new book readers aspiring to become successful readers

[19:55] How to choose the next right book to read

[21:36] Uncovering the journey from idea to publication of his book, ‘Rise of the Reader.’

[29:00] Why he decided to include a section on actionable and implementable habits to improve your health, wealth, and happiness in his book

[31:16] An example of a happy habit from Nick’s book and how to implement it

[39:18] Book marketing tips

[41:14] Grab a copy of ‘Rise of the Reader’ from Amazon: https://bit.ly/46NKXyI 

[42:00] Rapid Fire Round

[42:19] Nick’s go-to books;

Die With Zero: https://bit.ly/3GvEoGj

I Will Teach You to Be Rich: https://bit.ly/3RdFBqH

[47:53] Best way to connect with Nick Hutchison:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers/

Key Takeaways:  

• Books offer solutions to nearly any problem we may encounter and also facilitate the development of a wide range of skills we may want to acquire. [07:56]

• ”Action is the real measure of intelligence.” ~Napoleon Hill [09:25]

• “What’s not being measured can’t be managed.” ~Peter Drucker [13:02]

• If you give yourself a deadline, you will get it done. A task will expand to fill the allotted time that you give it. ~Parkinson’s Law [25:47] 

• “Impact is felt through feedback.” ~Nick Hutchison [27:00]

• “There are two types of forgiveness: internal and external. Internal forgiveness happens when you stop feeling angry or resentful toward yourself, whereas external forgiveness happens when you stop feeling angry or resentful towards someone else.” ~Nick Hutchison [31:41]

• “Unforgiveness is like drinking poison yourself and waiting for the other person to die.” ~Marianne Williamson [34:14]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. MJ DeMarco

2. Arnold Schwarzenegger

3. Marcus Aurelius

4. Lucius Annaeus Seneca

5. Epictetus

6. Limitless Expanded Edition: https://bit.ly/3uNS0u4

7. Rise of the Reader: https://bit.ly/46NKXyI

8. Be Useful: https://bit.ly/3TehCL0

9. Think and Grow Rich: https://bit.ly/41amTF6

10. $100M Leads: https://bit.ly/3uNWzoc

11. Rich Dad Poor Dad: https://bit.ly/3QPiSCz

12. The Total Money Makeover: https://amzn.to/4852Qu5

13. The Richest Man in Babylon: https://bit.ly/41b2sb3

14. The Millionaire Fastlane: https://bit.ly/47RkmCw

15. The 4-Hour Workweek: https://bit.ly/3Rf1aY2

16. The Code of the Extraordinary Mind: https://bit.ly/472QSjT

17. The Four Agreements: https://bit.ly/3T8TIAp

18. A Return to Love: https://bit.ly/41dlnlx

19. Die With Zero: https://bit.ly/3GvEoGj

20. I Will Teach You to Be Rich: https://bit.ly/3RdFBqH

21. Less Annoying CRM tool: https://www.lessannoyingcrm.com/

Keep In Touch with Nick Hutchison:

Website: https://bookthinkers.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bookthinkers

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bookthinkers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BookThinkers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bookthinkers/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookthinkersofficial 

BookThinkers Live 2026 was BEYOND one of my favorite events of all time... In tribute, we're replaying some of our FAVORITE episodes highlighting some of this year's amazing speakers. Binge Away!

Learn Speak Teach Episode #118 with John David Mann.

Many authors have difficulty finding the key factor that will make their work stand out. As a result, they often end up with books that fail to make the desired impact on readers. So, what’s the secret behind every successful book?

Today, John David Mann sheds light on the key factors that contribute to a book’s success. John is an award-winning author and writing coach, best known for co-authoring the New York Times bestseller The Go-Giver. With over 40 books to his name, he has established himself as a powerful voice in the writing community.

In the episode, John discusses the elements that made The Go-Giver irresistible to readers. Additionally, he introduces his online course Book Concepts That Sell, designed to provide writers with practical advice and insightful strategies to improve their writing.

John also dives into the limitations of AI in writing, emphasizing its inability to capture true creativity and originality. Moreover, he shares insights on the power of partnerships in writing, highlighting the key red flags and green lights to watch for when collaborating with other authors.

Finally, John reveals his “secret sauce” for writing success and the motivation that drives his passion for writing. Let’s tap into some of his wisdom.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[01:49] Common trait of successful books

[07:21] The Go-Giver: https://johndavidmann.com/books/the-go-giver/

[15:00] Current focus

[16:10] AI limitations 

[20:03] Online course: https://bookconceptmagic.com/

[24:06] Partnership with other authors

[28:31] Red flags & green lights

[33:00] John’s secret sauce

[43:06] Newsletter: https://johndavidmann.com/newsletter/

[46:48] Writing Motivation

[47:52] Connect with John David Mann

• Website: https://johndavidmann.com/

Key Takeaways:  

• Every successful book has a magnetically compelling and irresistible core concept. ~John David Mann [01:49]

• “The greatest truths are found in paradox.” ~John David Mann [10:10]

• An author should never do their cover. ~John David Mann [18:58]

• A successful partnership requires mutual respect for each person’s area of expertise. ~John David Mann [30:46]

• “Empathy is the number one skill set for an effective writer.” ~John David Mann [35:15]

• “No tears in the writer, no tears in the reader. No surprise in the writer, no surprise in the reader.” ~Robert Frost [39:58]

• “Every writer is the first reader of their book.” ~John David Mann [40:54]

• “Everyone is necessarily the hero of his own life story.” ~John Barth [43:52]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. The Go-Giver

2. The Latte Factor 

3. Cold Fear

4. The Automatic Millionaire

5. Smart Women Finish Rich

6. The Alchemist

7. Man’s Search for Meaning

8. How to Write Good: https://johndavidmann.com/2021/03/02/how-to-write-good/

Keep In Touch with John David Mann:

Website: https://johndavidmann.com/

X: https://twitter.com/JohnDavidMann

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndavidmann/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johndavidmann

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johndavidmann/

Writing workshop: https://bookconceptmagic.com/

Newsletter: https://johndavidmann.com/newsletter/

David Mann’s books: https://johndavidmann.com/books/

How to Write Good: https://johndavidmann.com/2021/03/02/how-to-write-good/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

BookThinkers Live 2026 was BEYOND one of my favorite events of all time... In tribute, we're replaying some of our FAVORITE episodes highlighting some of this year's amazing speakers. Binge Away!

Learn Speak Teach #17 w/ Amberly Lago

-

Fear, disappointment, pain, and suffering are all part of life. They're also the things that can hold you back from achieving your goals. When you feel like giving up on a difficult task or when you're faced with fear, consider the WHY you're putting so much time and effort into it. If your goal is something important to you, it will be worth enduring the downsides of life to reach it.

Join the conversation with Amberly Lago as she shares the story of a life forever altered by a horrific motorcycle accident that shattered her right leg. Despite the initial recommendation to amputate, she endured 34 surgeries to save it. As a sexual abuse and divorce survivor, she was determined to save not only her leg but her career, her dreams, and her dignity.

Amberly Lago is a TEDx Speaker, Peak Performance Coach, Podcast Host, and leading expert in the field of resilience and transformation. She is the best-selling author of “True Grit and Grace” and empowers people worldwide by sharing her truth.

Through her book, coaching methods, and workshops, she has curated unique tools to teach others how to tap into their superpower of resilience, build grit, and elevate their lives and businesses, with grace! Amberly has been featured on NBC’s The Today Show, The Doctors, Hallmark, Good Morning Lalaland, contributed to magazines such as Forbes, USA Today, LA Style, Shape, Fit Pregnancy, Health, and Disability Magazine.

Amberly is also the founder of the "UNSTOPPABLE LIFE MASTERMIND," designed to build your influence, impact, and income

Tune in!

During this episode, you will learn about;

[00:01] Pre-show

[02:30] Meet our today’s guest, the truly inspiring Amberly Lago

[05:52] Who’s Amberly Lago? Her Story

[13:38] The secret to success is focusing on your vision and being a part of it

[21:49] How Amberly got the clarity of her purpose in life, and how you can find yours

[26:38] The tragic motorcycle accident that shattered her right leg

[31:50] The mind shift she had on getting out of the wheelchair

[35:20] How her first TEDx talk was

[37:04] Amberly’s P.A.C.E.R method in coaching and how it works

[43:53] How you can connect with Amberly

[47:31] Rapid Fire Round

Notable Quotes

~ “Every rejection can be an opportunity to build resilience. It all depends on the angle that you look at it.”

~ “Do not be tethered in society’s scripted life. Follow your dreams and achieve your vision even if every person disowns you.”

~ “You have to fall in love with what you do. If you don’t, you will never be successful in it.”

~ “You were not born to just pay bills, make a living, and then die. We were all made with a reason and for a purpose. The greatest fulfillment comes when you know your purpose and serve it to the world.”

~”Never get stressed in a current situation that is not aligned with your vision.”

Amberly’s Book

True Grit and Grace: Turning Tragedy into Triumph: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R91R3ZT/

Keep In Touch with Amberly Lago:

Website: https://amberlylago.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberlylago/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberlylagomotivation/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/AmberlyLagoSpeaker/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/amberlylago

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1PfuUb5fgT90e29aDKB6nQ

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amberlylago/amberly-lago/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook www.facebook.com/balbertmarketing

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Our Website: www.realbusinessconnections.com

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

BookThinkers Live 2026 was BEYOND one of my favorite events of all time... In tribute, we're replaying some of our FAVORITE episodes highlighting some of this year's amazing speakers. Binge Away!

Learn Speak Teach Episode #155 with Markus Kaulius.

What does it take to build confidence, wealth, and a bigger life without losing yourself? In this episode, Markus Kaulius shares how he went from a broken home, low self-worth, and getting bullied for being skinny to becoming a confident entrepreneur, investor, and leader. He also breaks down how discipline, consistency, and the right environment can change everything.

Today, we are thrilled to have Markus Kaulius on the show, a serial entrepreneur, impact-driven investor, bestselling author, and founder of Five Talent Capital. Markus has built multiple 8 and 9 figure companies, helped scale one business to $170M in global sales, and now helps others think differently about growth, money, and fulfillment.

In this episode, Markus shares practical lessons on confidence, health, investing, compounding, diversification, and why you should only invest in things you fully understand. He also opens up about faith, impact, and why success without fulfillment is never enough.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[01:40] From Broken Home to Confidence

[04:09] What If Your Past Was a Gift?

[06:28] The Turning Point

[09:29] Stop Getting Comfortable

[11:12] Grow 1% Every Day

[13:14] Excuses or Results

[13:59] 31,000 Steps and Finding Time

[17:15] You Already Know Who You Are

[18:43] Try More Things

[20:33] Become a Magnet for the Right People

[22:55] Don’t Copy Someone Else’s Path

[24:28] Five Talent Capital

[25:25] Why Diversification Matters

[27:43] A Kindergartener’s Education on Money

[29:50] Only Invest in What You Understand

[32:00] Understanding Fees and Risk

[35:22] Find Someone You Trust

[37:38] How to Start Building Wealth

[38:50] The Compounding Effect

[39:30] The Looksmaxing Trap

[41:43] The Cost of Shortcuts

[45:10] Focus on Just Two Things

[47:16] Why Health Impacts Everything

[48:44] Stop Chasing Motivation

[49:07] Invest in Help and Accountability

[50:47] Your Health Is Cheaper Today

[51:59] How to Support Markus

[52:38] Tell Someone Your Decision

[54:21] Where to Connect with Markus

Key Takeaways:  

• What if all the garbage in your past was actually a gift? ~Markus Kaulius

• You already know who you’re supposed to be. ~Markus Kaulius

• If you feel called to play a bigger game, lean into that calling. Do not get complacent. ~Markus Kaulius

• You can have excuses or you can have results, but you cannot have both. ~Markus Kaulius

• Spend time with people who look like they’re further on the path than you. ~Markus Kaulius

• Become the person you’re supposed to be and you will attract the people you’re supposed to attract. ~Markus Kaulius

• Only invest in things that you fully understand. ~Markus Kaulius

• If you have 15 to 20 uncorrelated investments, you reduce your risk dramatically. ~Markus Kaulius

• Have money come out of your account every month. Just have it pulled. ~Markus Kaulius

• Pick something you can do consistently. ~Markus Kaulius

• How much motivation do you need to brush your teeth? ~Markus Kaulius

• You can’t improve all seven things at once. Pick two and go all in. ~Markus Kaulius

• Health is cheapest today. ~Ben Albert

• You can still relax without losing the whole night. ~Ben Albert

Keep In Touch with Markus Kaulius :

Website: https://www.fivetalentcapital.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markuskaulius/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markuskaulius/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markus.kaulius/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

BookThinkers Live 2026 was BEYOND one of my favorite events of all time... In tribute, we're replaying some of our FAVORITE episodes highlighting some of this year's amazing speakers. Binge Away!

Learn Speak Teach Episode #151 with Christian F Johnson.

In a world full of distractions and pressure, staying aligned with purpose can feel impossible. However, embracing the Presence-Centered Path helps you regain clarity, sharpen your focus, and perform at your best every day.

In this episode, Ben Albert speaks with Christian F Johnson, a Presence-Centered Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Author who helps high-achieving leaders lead from divine alignment rather than performance. Through his signature framework, The Presence-Centered Path™, he guides leaders to destroy distractions, align with God, and fortify their focus to lead with peace, purpose, and power.

Christian shares the secrets behind his powerful MC performances and offers practical tips on mastering public speaking. He explains how leaders and speakers can show up authentically and connect deeply with their audience.

Christian also introduces the R.I.N.S.E. Method, a 5-step spiritual recalibration system that helps high-achieving leaders realign when stress and distractions take over. Additionally, he discusses how to live authentically and cultivate a net positive life that balances success with purpose.

Lastly, Christian shares his personal journey to finding God and offers practical guidance on choosing the right mentor or coach.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:58] Secrets of MCing

[07:19] Public Speaking

[09:16] R.I.N.S.E

[13:55] Being Your Authentic Self

[17:18] Connect with Christian

• Website: https://iamchristianfjohnson.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamchristianfjohnson/

[18:30] Net Positive Life

[28:00] Finding God

[37:37] Choosing a Coach

[44:14] Support Christian

• Website: https://iamchristianfjohnson.com/

• Book: https://www.amazon.com/When-Youre-Speaking-Still-Silent/dp/B0F6YQ8NSW

Key Takeaways:  

• In public speaking, we must embody what we are speaking from. ~Christian F. Johnson [12:57]

• “You have to be you; everybody else is taken.” ~Christian F Johnson [15:07]

• You already have everything you need to succeed; we just sometimes need external things to remind us of what we already have. ~Christian F Johnson [16:29]

• “Spend time loving over hating.” ~Christian F Johnson [35:08]

• Healing is just applying love to the places that are hurting. ~Ben Albert [35:27]

• “You don’t need a new voice; you just need to return to your authentic voice.” ~Christian F Johnson [48:29]

• “What you feed will live, and what you starve will die.” ~Christian F Johnson [48:58]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. When You’re Speaking, But Still Silent: https://amzn.to/4rfJ7kI

2. Kingdom Legacy House Church: https://klh.life

Keep In Touch with Christian F Johnson:

Website: https://iamchristianfjohnson.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamchristianfjohnson/

Email: info@iamchristianfjohnson.com

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

BookThinkers Live 2026 was BEYOND one of my favorite events of all time... In tribute, we're replaying some of our FAVORITE episodes highlighting some of this year's amazing speakers. Binge Away!

Learn Speak Teach Episode #137 with Eric Jorgenson.

Scribe Media, once a top name in the publishing world, fell from industry leader in 2021 to bankruptcy by May 2023. Its collapse left hundreds of employees and freelancers jobless, authors who had paid in full with nothing in return, and investors defrauded of millions.

In this episode, Eric Jorgenson shares how he stepped in as CEO of Scribe Media during its most turbulent chapter and the ongoing journey to rebuild the company’s reputation, trust, and future.

Eric breaks down Scribe’s carefully designed process that helps authors turn their ideas into published books. He also reveals the secret to selling a million copies and discusses the drawbacks of relying on AI for writing.

Beyond Scribe, Eric talks about his book The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, the evolution of audiobooks, and his venture fund, Rolling Fun. Tune in for amazing insights!

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[00:49] The Lost episode

[05:19] Scribe Collapse & Recovery

[08:33] Becoming Scribe’s CEO

[16:51] Book writing process

[27:46] Selling a Million Copies

[29:44] AI Tools

[32:42] The Almanack of Naval Ravikant

[35:14] Audiobooks

[44:28] Venture fund

• Website: https://www.rolling.fun/

[51:28] Connect with Eric

• Website: https://www.ejorgenson.com/

• Podcast: https://www.ejorgenson.com/podcast

Key Takeaways:

• “Being particular with your customers is a massive advantage.” ~Eric Jorgenson [15:45]

• “Almost every writer has experienced writer’s block, but no human being has ever experienced talker’s block.” ~Eric Jorgenson [17:46]

• If you want to sell a million copies of a book, don’t try to sell a million copies in a category that has never sold a million. Instead, go to a category where a million copies are sold once every few years when there is a hit. ~Eric Jorgenson [27:46]

• “You aren't advertising to a standing army; you are advertising to a moving parade." ~David Ogilvy [28:02]

• AI writing tools deny writers the full experience of writing. ~Eric Jorgenson [30:34]

• There is wisdom in the things you hear over and over again. ~Eric Jorgenson [34:20]

• Most people are now audiobook consumers. ~Eric Jorgenson [36:22]

• The best thing a human being can do is help another human being know more. ~Eric Jorgenson [43:18]

• The acquisition of wisdom is a moral duty. ~Eric Jorgenson [43:22]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Tucker Max

2. Timothy Ferriss

3. David Ogilvy

4. Elon Musk

5. Peter Thiel

6. The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: https://bit.ly/4pEb85P

7. Scribe Collapse & Recovery: https://www.tuckermax.com/the-scribe-media-collapse-and-recovery/

Keep In Touch with Eric Jorgenson:

Website (Company): https://scribemedia.com/

Website (Personal): https://www.ejorgenson.com/

Podcast: https://www.ejorgenson.com/podcast

X: https://x.com/ericjorgenson

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #161 with The Mercy Queen Shabana Serang on the Real Business Connections Podcast.

Mercy is not weakness. It is not naivety. And it does not mean losing yourself to save everyone else.

In this powerful conversation, Ben Albert sits down with Shabana Serang, also known as The Mercy Queen, to talk about mercy, self-worth, faith, forgiveness, mental health, human connection, and the deeper work of healing yourself while still serving others.

Shabana shares why mercy belongs to all of us, but also why mercy has to start with the self. She opens up about bullying, depression, self-love, spirituality, food, family, and the mission behind Mercy Mindset, Miracles 4 Mercy, Mercy Mediterranean, Luna’s Halal Taqueria, and her upcoming book, Love Me First, Love Me Last.

Ben and Shabana also explore how food can become a vehicle for service, how small daily acts of kindness can create real human connection, and why being seen, heard, respected, and valued can change someone’s life.

This episode is about mercy without self-abandonment, compassion without losing your dignity, and growth that starts with remembering your own value.

Content note: This conversation includes discussion of depression and suicide.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[01:21] What Mercy Really Means

[05:13] Mercy Beyond Kindness

[07:43] Mercy Is Not Naivety

[12:05] Learning Self-Mercy

[13:40] Seeing Human Value

[15:41] When “Not My Problem” Shows Up

[18:34] Food as a Mission

[24:05] The Mercy Mission

[25:59] Service Without a Price Tag

[29:12] Money as an Amplifier

[34:20] Giving When It Costs You

[39:38] Love Me First, Love Me Last

[43:41] When Someone Is Losing Hope

[48:10] Helping Without Judgment

[50:00] Dance, Faith, and Healing

[52:43] Closing Reflections

Key Takeaways:  

• Mercy is not weakness. Real mercy includes self-awareness, self-compassion, and enough dignity to not abandon yourself. ~Shabana Serang

• Mercy belongs to everyone, but one of the hardest forms of mercy is learning how to offer it to yourself. ~Shabana Serang

• Small acts of kindness can make people feel seen, heard, respected, and valued. ~Shabana Serang

• Food can become more than a meal. It can become a way to break bread, build connection, and serve a bigger mission. ~Shabana Serang

• “The more you give, the more you will always receive because it is the inevitable reward for goodness.” ~Shabana Serang

• “You say you're just a meager soul, but within you lies the keys to the universe.” ~Shabana Serang

Keep In Touch with Shabana Serang:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMercyQueen/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shabanamarkar/

Mercy Mindset: https://mercymindset.com/about/

Miracles 4 Mercy: https://miracles4mercy.com/

Mercy Mediterranean: https://mercymediterranean.com/

Luna’s Halal Taqueria: https://www.lunashalaltaqueria.com/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Fifteen Minute Friday Episode #72 with Lady Jen Du Plessis.

Business owners love to stay busy, but busy does not always mean productive. Sometimes we are doing activities because someone told us we “should,” while the real needle-moving work keeps getting pushed aside.

In this Fifteen Minute Friday, Lady Jen Du Plessis, Dame Commander, joins Ben Albert to talk about moving from hustle to harmony. Lady Jen is an award-winning international speaker, The Business Scaling Architect, and The Sovereign Leadership Mentor. She has helped transform over 8,000 businesses and brings 40 years of finance experience with over $400 million in revenue generated.

Lady Jen breaks down why so many entrepreneurs stay stuck in hustle mode, what it means to stop skimming the surface, and how to identify whether your day is spent finding, minding, or grinding.

If you feel like you are working hard but not moving forward, this episode will help you rethink your priorities, protect your lead generation time, and start leading your business from a higher level.

Quote Of The Day:

“If you’re casual about your business, your business will become a casualty.” ~Les Brown

Timestamp:

[00:00] Trailer

[00:59] Quote Of The Day

[01:16] Eating Soup With a Fork

[03:24] From Hustle to Harmony

[04:17] Becoming the Expert

[06:53] No Key to Success

[09:02] Cookie-Cutter Coaching Fails

[12:06] From Hands-On to Hands-Off

[14:31] Connect with Lady Jen

[16:06] Integration Assignment

[16:27] Finder, Minder, Grinder

[18:40] Lead Generation Comes First

[20:01] Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways:  

• Staying busy is not the same as building a business. ~Lady Jen Du Plessis

• “I call it eating soup with a fork.” ~Lady Jen Du Plessis

• There is no one key to success. Success is a combination lock. ~Lady Jen Du Plessis

• Cookie-cutter coaching fails because every entrepreneur brings different skills, experiences, and gaps. ~Lady Jen Du Plessis

• Business owners scale by moving from hands-on to hands-off. ~Lady Jen Du Plessis

• Lead generation should happen before client work and admin work. ~Lady Jen Du Plessis

Integration Assignment: 

Create three columns on a piece of paper:

1. Finder

2. Minder

3. Grinder

Track your major activities for the day.

Finder activities create new business and generate leads.

Minder activities serve current clients.

Grinder activities are admin, backend, and busywork.

At the end of the day, look at where your time actually went. Then ask: What needs to be delegated, delayed, or done after lead generation?

Keep In Touch with Lady Jen Duplessis:

Website: https://www.ladyjenduplessis.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenduplessis/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenduplessis/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenDuPlessis22/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/JenDuPlessis

—

Follow Balbert:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

Learn Speak Teach Episode #160 with Michael Ceely.

Business is a sport, and if you want to perform at a higher level, you have to train like a business athlete.

In this episode, Ben Albert sits down with Michael Ceely, licensed psychotherapist, cognitive behavioral therapist, and executive coach, to talk about pressure, performance, leadership, and what it really takes to thrive without burning yourself out.

Michael shares what racing against Lance Armstrong taught him about extra gears, why your morning routine matters more than you think, and how leaders can stop making fight-or-flight decisions in business. He also breaks down the difference between coaching and therapy, the power of authoritative leadership, and how belief systems quietly shape the way we lead, work, and grow.

Ben and Michael also dive into Michael’s upcoming book, The Only Way Is Up, inspired by the rock climber who helped save his life, and how that moment became a powerful metaphor for business, courage, and playing to win.

If you want to thrive in your career without being stressed out all the time, this episode will help you rethink pressure, performance, and what it means to lead from a stronger place.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer

[00:59] Racing Against Lance Armstrong

[03:51] Business as a Sport

[05:11] Ten Minutes for Yourself

[06:34] Your Next Day Starts the Night Before

[09:37] From Therapy to Coaching

[13:01] The Problem with Hustle Culture

[15:49] Coach vs. Mentor

[17:32] Authoritative Leadership

[20:25] Becoming a Better Leader

[25:22] Stress and Decision-Making

[28:30] Are Some People Built Different?

[31:10] Telling the Truth

[35:20] Inner Critic and High Performance

[38:02] The Rock Climber Who Saved His Life

[42:29] The Only Way Is Up

[47:02] Coaching vs. Therapy

[50:27] Connect with Michael

Key Takeaways:  

• Treating business like a sport starts with daily performance: sleep, food, breaks, and a morning routine that puts you in control. ~Michael Ceely

• “If you don’t have 10 minutes in the morning for yourself, you don’t have a life.” ~Michael Ceely

• Hustle culture can become unhealthy when success means sacrificing your marriage, health, joy, or peace of mind. ~Michael Ceely

• Authoritative leadership means being clear and firm while still respecting people’s autonomy and helping them thrive. ~Michael Ceely

• Stress can push you back into old programming, so better decisions often start with waiting, breathing, and getting calm. ~Michael Ceely

• The best leaders are willing to tell the truth, even when it is uncomfortable or risky. ~Michael Ceely

• High performers need a healthier relationship with failure, disappointment, and their own inner critic. ~Michael Ceely

• “The only way is up.” ~Michael Ceely

Keep In Touch with Michael Ceely:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJkDEDNR6KI

Website: https://www.michaelceely.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ceely/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.ceely.coaching

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Fifteen Minute Fridays episode #71 Vincent A. Lanci.

Building a business, a podcast, or a personal brand can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to do it all on your own. But sometimes progress does not start with a massive breakthrough. It starts with one decision, one action, one meeting, or one small step in the right direction.

Today, we are joined by Vincent A. Lanci. Once left for dead, Vincent emerged from a coma transformed and never looked back. From a finance career and speaking at his MBA commencement, to now helping others amplify their voice as a 4x podcast host, 7x author, and CEO of Coming Alive Podcast Production and Living Proof Traumatic Brain Injury Coaching.

In this episode, Vincent shares how he rebuilt his life after a traumatic brain injury, why he believes it only takes one opportunity to change your path, and how practical habits like time blocking, exercise, and consistent action can help entrepreneurs keep moving forward. He also explains why podcasting can be a powerful tool for anyone looking to share their message and build meaningful connections.

Quote Of The Day:

“It only takes one.” ~Vincent A. Lanci

Timestamp:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:24] It Only Takes One

[02:17] From Left for Dead to Podcasting and Purpose

[03:21] Shattering Expectations After a Traumatic Brain Injury

[04:29] How to Find Your First Step

[04:50] Time Blocking and Auditing Your Day

[07:13] Can You Start a Podcast on Your Own?

[09:12] Start with One Episode and Keep Going

[09:30] Stop Selling and Start Educating

[11:33] Integration Assignment

[12:02] Time Blocking, Exercise, and Mental Clarity

[15:21] How to Connect with Vincent A. Lanci 

Key Takeaways:  

• “It only takes one.” ~Vincent A. Lanci

• “If you dedicate yourself to something, you should expect to shatter those expectations.” ~Vincent A. Lanci

• Time blocking can lower stress, reduce second-guessing, and help you audit how you actually spend your time. ~Vincent A. Lanci

• “I think everyone should have a podcast.” ~Vincent A. Lanci

• When you stop selling and start educating, the right opportunities tend to come back around to you. ~Vincent A. Lanci

• Exercise is not just about looking better. It can improve mental clarity, lower stress, and help entrepreneurs stay steady. ~Vincent A. Lanci

Integration Assignment: 

Time block tomorrow before you go to bed tonight. Write out your top action items, schedule one intentional break, and add one form of movement like a walk, stretch, or short workout. Then follow that plan for the next 7 days. the 3-stage breathing technique in the morning and evening for at least 3–5 rounds.

Keep In Touch with Vincent A. Lanci:

Website: https://vincentalanci.com/ 

Time With Vincent: https://timewithvincent.com/ 

Coming Alive Podcast Production: https://comingalivepodcastproduction.com/ 

Living Proof TBI Coaching: https://livingprooftbicoaching.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vincentalanci/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincentalanci/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vincentalanci/ 

—

Follow Balbert:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

FMF is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #35 featuring Marcus Campbell.

Affiliate marketing is everywhere, but most people still overcomplicate it.

In this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” session from the GrowGetters ONLY Inner Circle, we’re joined by Marcus Campbell, better known as The Affiliate Marketing Dude. Marcus has trained over 100,000 people, spent more than 20 years in the affiliate marketing world, and built deep expertise in AI, email marketing, traffic, offers, and online monetization.

Marcus breaks down what affiliate marketing actually is, how it has changed since he started, and how business owners can use affiliate programs to create new revenue streams. He also shares his take on the Honey app controversy, why underutilized traffic is one of the biggest opportunities online, and how creators and entrepreneurs can stop chasing noise and start focusing on what converts.

The conversation also digs into AI tools, niche selection, domain strategy, lead generation, high-ticket affiliate marketing, recurring commissions, and how to build simple systems that turn attention into income.

If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, marketer, or business owner looking for practical ways to monetize your audience, this AMA is packed with real-world affiliate marketing wisdom.

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

Join Marcus: https://joinmarcus.com/

Affiliate Marketing Dude: https://affiliatemarketingdude.com/

Manus AI: https://manus.im/

ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com/

Gemini: https://gemini.google.com/

Claude: https://claude.ai/

Honey App: https://www.joinhoney.com/

Keep In Touch with Marcus Campbell:

Main Link for Updates: https://joinmarcus.com/

Website: https://affiliatemarketingdude.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@affiliatemarketingdude/videos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/affiliatemarketingdude/|

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affiliatedude/

—

Join GrowGetters ONLY:

Inner-Circle: https://growgettersonly.com/

Community: https://weallgrowtogether.com/

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #159 with Pia Silva.

Scaling does not have to mean hiring a team, building a big agency, or burning yourself out trying to serve everyone.

In this episode, Ben Albert sits down with Pia Silva, entrepreneur, author of Badass Your Brand and Scale Solo, host of The No BS Agency Podcast, and founder of No BS Mastery.

Pia helps expert-led service providers build profitable businesses that stay small on purpose. Her approach challenges the common “scale or fail” advice and gives consultants, strategists, designers, coaches, and agency owners a simpler path to more profit, more freedom, and less BS.

In this conversation, Pia breaks down how to scale solo without burning out, why your clients probably do not want your proposal either, and how to get paid before you ever pitch the full project. She also explains her Lead Product Method, why premium clients want speed and clarity, and how to compete when AI is free and fast.

Ben and Pia also workshop real examples around podcast production, retainers, recurring revenue, authority content, and how service providers can package their expertise into clear, high-value offers.

If you sell your expertise and want a business that gives you more freedom instead of more complexity, this episode is a must-listen.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer and Intro

[01:12] Why everyone keeps talking about Pia

[02:59] What makes Pia Silva different

[03:37] More impact with less energy

[05:08] Can you scale solo and still have big impact?

[07:28] Ben’s story about impact through business

[09:29] What Scale Solo is really about

[10:53] The 50-25-25 rule

[13:05] Why experts struggle to charge

[18:43] Replacing free calls with a lead product

[22:54] Why clients don’t want proposals

[24:13] The problem with retainers

[27:16] Thinking annually like a CEO

[30:21] Can you have recurring revenue and scale solo?

[32:44] Compressing projects into two days

[36:20] Scale Solo and intensive delivery

[38:01] How AI changes expert services

[40:38] Trust, authority, and AI noise

[44:17] Why relationships still win

[48:25] Where to find Pia’s book

Key Takeaways:  

• You can scale solo, but the business has to be designed around profit, freedom, and fewer moving pieces. ~Pia Silva

• “You must make all of the revenue you need in maximum 50% of your working hours or less.” ~Pia Silva

• Experts often struggle to charge for what feels easy to them, but clients are paying for the process, confidence, leadership, and clarity behind the work. ~Pia Silva

• A lead product builds trust before the pitch because the client pays for the strategy instead of receiving a free proposal they may not value. ~Pia Silva

• “When we think monthly, we’re thinking like employees. And when we think annually, we’re thinking like CEOs.” ~Pia Silva

• AI can speed up expert services, but premium clients still pay for discernment, curation, confidence, and human strategy. ~Pia Silva

Keep In Touch with Pia Silva:

Website: https://www.piasilva.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pialovesyourbiz

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/badassyourbrand/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pia-silva-86b2723/

Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XHL8F3G

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pialovesyourbiz/videos

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

Scale Solo Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XHL8F3G

No BS Mastery: https://www.piasilva.com/

Badass Your Brand: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B06XHL8F3G

The No BS Agency Podcast: https://www.piasilva.com/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #158 with Lilian Riad-Allen.

You can be surrounded by people and still feel completely alone. Not because something is wrong with you, but because loneliness is not always about proximity. It is about belonging, connection, and whether you feel truly seen in the moment you are living.

In this episode, Ben Albert sits down with Lilian Riad-Allen, host of Lil on Life Pod, People & Culture executive, behavioural neuroscientist, and ICF-certified coach, for a grounded conversation about loneliness, life transitions, authenticity, and what it really means to live a life well lived.

Lilian shares why so many successful people still feel disconnected, how social media can become a substitute for real connection, and why journaling, music, nature, and small moments of presence can help us come back to ourselves. She also opens up about grief, immigration, embracing her “corporate hippie” side, and learning to be her own cup of tea.

Together, Ben and Lilian explore how to stop outsourcing validation, build deeper connection, and create a life that feels meaningful in the everyday moments, not just the big milestones.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[00:56] Feeling lonely in a crowd

[02:42] What loneliness really means

[06:48] Journaling through music

[09:08] Life Transition Compass

[10:26] Climbing cringe mountain

[11:16] Signs of a life transition

[15:05] A life well lived

[17:29] Success, achievement, and disconnection

[20:01] Wonder in everyday moments

[23:19] Becoming a corporate hippie

[24:48] Grief and authenticity

[27:50] Being your own cup of tea

[31:51] Lilian’s immigration story

[33:23] Asking what really matters

[35:09] Finding your values

[37:57] Embracing the journey

[39:33] Connect with Lilian

[41:16] Integration assignment

Key Takeaways:  

• Loneliness is about belonging. You can be surrounded by people and still feel alone when you do not feel connected. ~Lilian Riad-Allen

• Isolation is being alone when it is not your choice. Solitude is intentionally spending time with yourself. ~Lilian Riad-Allen

• Journaling does not have to mean writing in a notebook. It can happen through music, playlists, reflection, and paying attention to your body. ~Lilian Riad-Allen

• A life well lived is built through authenticity, connection, presence, vulnerability, and the courage to ask for help. ~Lilian Riad-Allen

• “We’re not actually meant to evolve, to do things on our own.” ~Lilian Riad-Allen

• “You don’t have to be everybody’s cup of tea. I’m not, and that’s okay. I’m my own cup of tea and that’s what matters.” ~Lilian Riad-Allen

• If your best day feels too big or far away, start with one small step or one millimeter of movement toward it. ~Lilian Riad-Allen

Keep In Touch with Lilian Riad-Allen:

Website: https://lilonlife.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LilonLifePodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilonlifepod/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilian-riad-allen-6997a011/

Life Transition Compass App: https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/life-transition-compass/id6760262141

Email: lilonlifepod@gmail.com

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #157 with Anne Peterson.

What happens when personal growth crosses the line into manipulation? In this episode, Anne Peterson shares her experience inside Landmark, why she now questions the harm caused by certain high-control groups, and how charisma, coercion, and intensity can get mistaken for transformation.

Today, we are thrilled to have Anne Peterson on the show, author of Is This a Cult? and a coach, consultant, and advocate for safer, more ethical personal and professional development.

In this episode, Anne breaks down Landmark, large group awareness trainings, informed consent, coercive control, and the difference between healthy growth and harmful leadership. She also shares what people should look for in ethical communities, how to spot red flags, and what to do if something feels off.

This conversation is for anyone interested in self-help, leadership, personal development, community, psychology, or the line between support and exploitation.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:26] Landmark’s Bankruptcy and the Texas Two-Step

[03:51] Is Landmark a Cult?

[04:53] The Origins of EST, Landmark, and Large Group Awareness Trainings

[11:48] “Wait, Is This a Cult?”

[16:27] Peak Experiences, Breakthroughs, and Unintended Harm

[20:07] Why We Miss Manipulation

[24:32] Where Cults Cross the Line

[35:33] The Cost of High-Control Leadership

[37:05] Duty of Care and Ethical Practice

[42:10] Anne’s Work, Book, and Safer Solutions

[45:06] What Healthy Ethical Leadership Looks Like

[48:39] How to Leave a Harmful Group

[52:52] Intuition, Community, and Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways:  

• “Wait, I think I just spent 27 years and became a senior leader and raised a lot of money for a group that is actually a harmful cult, a destructive cult.” ~Anne Peterson

• “We haven’t been trained how to see the exploitive side. We haven’t been trained how to separate charisma from character. We haven’t trained ourselves to see manipulation.” ~Anne Peterson

• “Who paid the price for my signing away and doing that was my daughter and my son who didn’t have their mom.” ~Anne Peterson

• “When the doctor gives me a medication, they have to tell me the side effects. Why? Because in that profession, there’s a standard for informed consent. Why is there not a standard for informed consent in self-help?” ~Anne Peterson

• “If the attention is on you, that’s a great teacher.” ~Anne Peterson

• “If you get a sense like, ooh, something doesn’t seem right here, listen to that.” ~Anne Peterson

Keep In Touch with Anne Peterson:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annepeterson2/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anne.l.peterson1

Book, Podcast, and More: https://linktr.ee/anne_l_peterson

Marketplace Website: https://ilumn8.life/

Seek Safely Workshops: https://ilumn8.life/lp/seek-safely-programs/

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

A Little Bit Culty: https://alittlebitculty.com/

Rachel Bernstein: https://www.rachelbernsteintherapy.com/

Seek Safely: https://www.seeksafely.org/

Anne Peterson’s Marketplace: https://ilumn8.life/

Safe Seeking Workshops: https://ilumn8.life/lp/seek-safely-programs/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #34 featuring Nick Gray.

Most people say they want better relationships, stronger networks, and more opportunities. But very few people actually create the spaces where those connections happen.

In this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” session from the GrowGetters ONLY Inner Circle, we’re joined by Nick Gray — author of The 2-Hour Cocktail Party, founder of Museum Hack, and a leading voice in personal branding and meaningful networking.

Nick shares practical, no-fluff strategies for building real relationships through intentional gatherings, showing how simple hosted events can create powerful personal and professional opportunities. He breaks down the psychology of hosting, why small curated groups outperform big crowded events, and how anyone can become a connector without being the loudest person in the room.

The conversation also explores personal branding, creating a memorable online presence, and why a simple personal website is one of the highest-leverage assets you can build. Nick explains how to stand out authentically, make it easy for people to understand your value, and turn everyday interactions into lasting connections.

If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or professional who wants stronger relationships, better visibility, and a network that actually works, this session delivers practical playbooks you can use immediately.

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. The 2-Hour Cocktail Party by Nick Gray: https://amzn.to/39rfb2V

2. Meetup Video Nick Filmed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNB0o9VD0wU

3. LocalRank Checklist: https://localrank.so/checklist/

4. UltraSpeaking (Public Speaking Training): https://ultraspeaking.com/

5. Personal Websites: https://personalwebsites.org

Keep In Touch with Nick Gray:

Website: https://nickgray.net/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nickgraynews

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickgraynews/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickgraynews/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newfriend?fref=ts

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/nickgray

—

Join GrowGetters ONLY:

Inner-Circle: https://growgettersonly.com/

Community: https://weallgrowtogether.com/

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #156 with Peter Sage.

What does it take to master your mind when life gets brutal? In this episode, Peter Sage shares lessons from rowing the Atlantic, spending 6 months in prison for something he says he didn’t do, losing everything, and building his life back from the ground up.

Today, we are thrilled to have Peter Sage on the show, a serial entrepreneur, speaker, author, mentor, and 7x TEDx speaker who has taught more than 76,000 students across 100+ countries.

In this episode, Peter breaks down what self-mastery really looks like under pressure, how to take complete responsibility for your life, why adversity can become your greatest teacher, and why fulfillment matters more than chasing success alone. He also shares deep perspective shifts on fear, freedom, growth, identity, and what it means to stop swimming upstream.

The episode also explores prison, ocean rowing, emotional resilience, false goals, and how to become the kind of person who can handle anything life throws at you.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer and Intro

[01:02] Rowing the Atlantic vs. Prison

[08:19] Mastering Your Mind Under Pressure

[10:46] Fear of Death and Fear of Living

[13:50] Losing Everything and Going to Prison

[18:13] Becoming a Secret Agent of Change

[25:51] How to Become an Agent of Change

[33:34] Take Complete Responsibility

[37:11] Is It Too Late to Change?

[43:26] Time, Money, and Fulfillment

[50:57] How to Connect with Peter Sage

Key Takeaways:  

• “Life is a growth centric experience, not a comfort centric experience.” ~Peter Sage

• “Who shows up to answer the voice? Is it the coward, the criticizer or the champion?” ~Peter Sage

• “If you do not make peace with understanding death, you will end up being afraid to live.” ~Peter Sage

• “I went in there not with the identity of a prisoner. I went in as a secret agent of change.” ~Peter Sage

• Becoming the example and the invitation is how you truly impact other people. ~Peter Sage

• “You taking complete responsibility for everything that happens in your life, case closed.” ~Peter Sage

• “I can’t get it wrong and I can’t run out of time.” ~Peter Sage

• True wealth is what is left when all your money is gone. ~Peter Sage

Keep In Touch with Peter Sage:

Website: https://petersage.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealpetersage/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealPeterSage/videos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Peter-Sage/100044204765430/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #155 with Markus Kaulius.

What does it take to build confidence, wealth, and a bigger life without losing yourself? In this episode, Markus Kaulius shares how he went from a broken home, low self-worth, and getting bullied for being skinny to becoming a confident entrepreneur, investor, and leader. He also breaks down how discipline, consistency, and the right environment can change everything.

Today, we are thrilled to have Markus Kaulius on the show, a serial entrepreneur, impact-driven investor, bestselling author, and founder of Five Talent Capital. Markus has built multiple 8 and 9 figure companies, helped scale one business to $170M in global sales, and now helps others think differently about growth, money, and fulfillment.

In this episode, Markus shares practical lessons on confidence, health, investing, compounding, diversification, and why you should only invest in things you fully understand. He also opens up about faith, impact, and why success without fulfillment is never enough.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[01:40] From Broken Home to Confidence

[04:09] What If Your Past Was a Gift?

[06:28] The Turning Point

[09:29] Stop Getting Comfortable

[11:12] Grow 1% Every Day

[13:14] Excuses or Results

[13:59] 31,000 Steps and Finding Time

[17:15] You Already Know Who You Are

[18:43] Try More Things

[20:33] Become a Magnet for the Right People

[22:55] Don’t Copy Someone Else’s Path

[24:28] Five Talent Capital

[25:25] Why Diversification Matters

[27:43] A Kindergartener’s Education on Money

[29:50] Only Invest in What You Understand

[32:00] Understanding Fees and Risk

[35:22] Find Someone You Trust

[37:38] How to Start Building Wealth

[38:50] The Compounding Effect

[39:30] The Looksmaxing Trap

[41:43] The Cost of Shortcuts

[45:10] Focus on Just Two Things

[47:16] Why Health Impacts Everything

[48:44] Stop Chasing Motivation

[49:07] Invest in Help and Accountability

[50:47] Your Health Is Cheaper Today

[51:59] How to Support Markus

[52:38] Tell Someone Your Decision

[54:21] Where to Connect with Markus

Key Takeaways:  

• What if all the garbage in your past was actually a gift? ~Markus Kaulius

• You already know who you’re supposed to be. ~Markus Kaulius

• If you feel called to play a bigger game, lean into that calling. Do not get complacent. ~Markus Kaulius

• You can have excuses or you can have results, but you cannot have both. ~Markus Kaulius

• Spend time with people who look like they’re further on the path than you. ~Markus Kaulius

• Become the person you’re supposed to be and you will attract the people you’re supposed to attract. ~Markus Kaulius

• Only invest in things that you fully understand. ~Markus Kaulius

• If you have 15 to 20 uncorrelated investments, you reduce your risk dramatically. ~Markus Kaulius

• Have money come out of your account every month. Just have it pulled. ~Markus Kaulius

• Pick something you can do consistently. ~Markus Kaulius

• How much motivation do you need to brush your teeth? ~Markus Kaulius

• You can’t improve all seven things at once. Pick two and go all in. ~Markus Kaulius

• Health is cheapest today. ~Ben Albert

• You can still relax without losing the whole night. ~Ben Albert

Keep In Touch with Markus Kaulius :

Website: https://www.fivetalentcapital.co/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markuskaulius/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markuskaulius/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markus.kaulius/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #154 with Jill Schulman.

Bravery isn’t being fearless. Bravery is taking a step forward in the presence of fear. When you do the hard thing scared, you build confidence, resilience, and a deeper sense of pride in who you are becoming.

Today, we are thrilled to have Jill Schulman on the show, a former United States Marine, positive psychology expert, speaker, and author of The Bravery Effect.

In this episode, Jill shares the science behind bravery, stress, confidence, failure, and resilience. She explains why action comes before confidence, why avoiding fear can shrink your life, and how doing hard things can actually make you happier.

The episode also explores brave communication, asking for help, building a brave tribe, and why leaders, parents, and teams should support people in meeting high standards instead of removing every challenge.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[01:25] Why Jill Intimidates Ben

[02:56] Becoming a Marine

[03:31] The Navy SEAL Confidence Course

[05:46] Bravery Is Not Fearlessness

[06:47] What Failure Really Teaches You

[09:03] After Action Reports

[10:26] Is Stress Actually Bad for You?

[14:45] Building Your Bravery Muscle

[18:41] Bravery and Happiness

[19:04] Experiential Avoidance

[21:26] Feeding the Brave Wolf

[22:34] You Have the Power to Change Your Life

[24:53] Manifesting Requires Action

[26:39] Attack the Hill

[28:44] Action Precedes Confidence

[30:18] Curating a Brave Tribe

[33:19] Today’s Soft World

[37:49] Redefining a Me Day

[40:06] Helping People Meet the Standard

[43:15] Brave Communication

[45:26] Nice vs. Kind

[46:26] The Bravery Effect

[48:20] Bravery Workouts

[49:37] Do Things Scared

Key Takeaways:  

• Bravery is not being fearless. Bravery is taking a step forward in the presence of fear. ~Jill Schulman

• When you are scared and do it anyway, you become more confident. ~Jill Schulman

• Failures are stepping stones to success. ~Jill Schulman

• Your mindset on stress is predictive of how you respond to stress. ~Jill Schulman

• Anyone can build their bravery muscle. ~Jill Schulman

• Each time you avoid something you fear, you give the fear more power. ~Jill Schulman

• You have the power to change your life, but it will require bravery. ~Jill Schulman

• Action precedes confidence. ~Jill Schulman

• Bravery is contagious. ~Jill Schulman

• A me day means keeping promises to yourself. ~Jill Schulman

• Asking for help is a source of strength and it will make you stronger. ~Jill Schulman

• Nice guys may finish last, but kind guys finish first. ~Ben Albert

• Courageous is kind. ~Jill Schulman

Keep In Touch with Jill Schulman:

Website: https://www.jillschulman.com/

Book: The Bravery Effect: https://www.amazon.com/Bravery-Effect-Teaching-Conquering-Achieving/dp/B0F2BBPR35 

Additional Resources:

Free Bravery Assessment: https://www.jillschulman.com/

Free Brave Action Guide: https://www.jillschulman.com/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #33 featuring Nick Hutchison.

Reading a book is easy. Applying it is rare. Building a life and business around what you learn? That’s where transformation happens.

In this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” session from the GrowGetters ONLY Inner Circle, we’re joined by Nick Hutchison — founder of BookThinkers, host of BookThinkers: Life-Changing Books, and author of Rise of the Reader.

Nick shares practical strategies for turning reading into real-world results, explaining why consumption without implementation is just another form of procrastination. He breaks down how to retain more from books, create systems for applying what you learn, and build powerful relationships with authors and thought leaders.

The conversation also explores timeless vs. trendy ideas, building community through shared learning, hosting transformational live events, and why deep focus is becoming a competitive advantage in a distracted world.

If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or lifelong learner who wants ideas to translate into action, this session is packed with practical wisdom.

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Rise of the Reader by Nick Hutchison

https://www.amazon.com/Rise-Reader-Strategies-Mastering-Applying-ebook/dp/B0CGXZ5WJ9?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1

2. BookThinkers Live Event (2026)

https://www.bookthinkers.com/book-thinkers-live-2026

Keep In Touch with Nick Hutchison:

Nick’s Company: https://www.bookthinkers.com/

Instagram (BookThinkers): https://www.instagram.com/bookthinkers/

Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/nicklovesbooks/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bookthinkers/

—

Join GrowGetters ONLY:

Inner-Circle: https://growgettersonly.com/

Community: https://weallgrowtogether.com/

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/8QwCwGjDn-I

Learn Speak Teach Episode #153 with Vinnie Potestivo.

What does it really take to get discovered, build a personal brand, and create content that lasts? In this episode, Vinnie Potestivo shares why creators, entrepreneurs, and leaders need to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start making what they can with what they already have.

Today, we are thrilled to have Vinnie Potestivo on the show, an Emmy Award-winning media advisor, talent development and media strategist, and the host of I Have A Podcast. Vinnie is widely known for helping executives, founders, and creatives grow and monetize their personal brands, and for launching talent, shows, and media properties that have shaped modern pop culture.

As a network executive at MTV from 1998 to 2007, Vinnie helped discover talent and develop original programming behind shows and franchises including Punk’d, The Osbournes, TRL, 8th & Ocean, Wild ’N Out, and The Challenge. Through his work at VPE and beyond, he has continued helping clients develop, launch, distribute, and amplify original content across platforms, especially in podcasting.

In this episode, Vinnie shares stories from his early days editing with two VCRs, building his career at MTV, and learning what really makes content timeless. The conversation also explores podcast guesting, audience-building, creative resilience, and why documenting your life can often be more powerful than trying to manufacture perfect content.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer + Intro

[01:25] Creativity as a Survival Skill

[02:28] Editing with Two VCRs

[05:14] Create First, Edit Later

[06:18] Why Documenting Works

[10:17] What Makes Content Timeless

[13:46] The Osbournes and Building Hit Shows

[18:11] Punk’d, Jersey Shore, and Media Evolution

[26:37] How to Start Building a Brand

[30:40] Why Podcast Guesting Matters

[34:44] Using a Podcast to Declare Who You Are

[36:39] Finding Your Voice in Public

[41:18] Why Human Beats Perfect

[51:10] The Why Ladder

[53:28] Create What You Can, Not What You Should

[58:28] What Vinnie Gets to Do Next

[59:14] Launching Networks, Not Just Shows

Key Takeaways:  

• Being a creative is a survival skill. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• The audience makes content timeless. The content doesn’t make it a great series. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• Any podcast that has me is my podcast. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• I use my podcast as a way to declare who I am. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• The hardest thing about being a guest is listening. It’s not speaking actually. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• I’ll niche down and refine the message, but I will never niche down and refine the person. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• Just don’t let there not being an audience prevent you from creating the thing that you’re capable of creating right now. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• Create what you can, not what you should. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• Different questions will get you different answers. ~Vinnie Potestivo

• It’s the person that might be stumbling, bumbling over the question that the listener trusts more than the sweet-talking guy with the gel in their hair. ~Ben Albert

Keep In Touch with Vinnie Potestivo:

Website: https://www.vpe.tv/

Podcast: https://www.ihaveapodcast.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinniepotestivo

Email: vinnie@vpetalent.com

Podmatch: https://www.podmatch.com/member/vinniepotestivo 

Additional Resources:

I Have A Podcast: https://www.ihaveapodcast.com/

Vinnie’s Creator Hub: https://vpe.tv/hub

Podcast Amplification Tool: https://vpe.tv/quuu

How To Stand Out: https://vpe.tv/fascinate 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

See you next year: https://www.justintschenck.com/

Follow Balbert…

Facebook www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert

Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

Real Business Connections is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #152 with Anniston Riekstins.

Mastering your energy is the bridge to greater peace, calm, presence, creativity, and success. As you become more intentional with your energy, you gain clarity, move with purpose, and attract opportunities and clients that truly align with who you are.

Today, we are thrilled to have Anniston Riekstins on the show, a transformational mentor for women, master numerologist, best-selling author of The Universe Is Hiring, and founder and host of The Anniston Riekstins Show.

In this episode, Anniston shares the warning signs that indicate you need to master your energy. Moreover, she highlights the benefits of regulating your energy and provides practical tips to get started.

The episode also explores the fascinating world of numerology and its role in understanding your life path.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:55] Mastering Your Energy

[07:54] Warning Signs

[10:00] Benefits

[19:27] Attracting Ideal Clients

[29:31] Numerology

[46:49] Learn more

Life Path Workshop: Your Prosperity Code - https://youtu.be/AEGXPuMLSpI

2026 Energetic Forecast: https://youtu.be/P63YC8Okiwg

Life Path Quiz: Uncover the Hidden Patterns Shaping Your Life - https://www.annistonriekstins.com/discover-whats-keeping-you-hidden-quiz

[49:00] Current Focus

[59:55] Connect with Anniston 

• Website: https://www.annistonriekstins.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annistonblairriekstins/

• Podcast: https://www.annistonriekstins.com/podcasts/the-anniston-riekstins-show

Key Takeaways:  

• Stress scatters our thoughts, reduces our efficiency, and causes us to waste time, making it harder to complete tasks quickly and effectively. ~Anniston Riekstins [03:46]

• You can never fully master your energy because it is constantly evolving. ~Anniston Riekstins [05:23]

• Mastering your energy is the bridge to greater peace, calm, presence, and success. ~Anniston Riekstins [10:02]

• Everything is a reflection. When you make internal shifts, you begin to see those changes reflected externally. ~Anniston Riekstins [29:03]

• Success rewards speed. ~Ben Albert [41:06]

• We cannot create change or solve problems with the same energy that created them. ~Anniston Riekstins [52:05]

• The most powerful person in the room is the one who is most regulated.” ~Anniston Riekstins [55:54]

Keep In Touch with Anniston Riekstins:

Website: https://www.annistonriekstins.com/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/anniston.blair.9#

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annistonblairriekstins/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniston-blair-riekstins-a33766349/

Additional Resources:

Life Path Workshop: Your Prosperity Code - https://youtu.be/AEGXPuMLSpI

2026 Energetic Forecast: https://youtu.be/P63YC8Okiwg

Life Path Quiz: Uncover the Hidden Patterns Shaping Your Life - https://www.annistonriekstins.com/discover-whats-keeping-you-hidden-quiz

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #151 with Christian F Johnson.

In a world full of distractions and pressure, staying aligned with purpose can feel impossible. However, embracing the Presence-Centered Path helps you regain clarity, sharpen your focus, and perform at your best every day.

In this episode, Ben Albert speaks with Christian F Johnson, a Presence-Centered Leadership Coach, Speaker, and Author who helps high-achieving leaders lead from divine alignment rather than performance. Through his signature framework, The Presence-Centered Path™, he guides leaders to destroy distractions, align with God, and fortify their focus to lead with peace, purpose, and power.

Christian shares the secrets behind his powerful MC performances and offers practical tips on mastering public speaking. He explains how leaders and speakers can show up authentically and connect deeply with their audience.

Christian also introduces the R.I.N.S.E. Method, a 5-step spiritual recalibration system that helps high-achieving leaders realign when stress and distractions take over. Additionally, he discusses how to live authentically and cultivate a net positive life that balances success with purpose.

Lastly, Christian shares his personal journey to finding God and offers practical guidance on choosing the right mentor or coach.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:58] Secrets of MCing

[07:19] Public Speaking

[09:16] R.I.N.S.E

[13:55] Being Your Authentic Self

[17:18] Connect with Christian

• Website: https://iamchristianfjohnson.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamchristianfjohnson/

[18:30] Net Positive Life

[28:00] Finding God

[37:37] Choosing a Coach

[44:14] Support Christian

• Website: https://iamchristianfjohnson.com/

• Book: https://www.amazon.com/When-Youre-Speaking-Still-Silent/dp/B0F6YQ8NSW

Key Takeaways:  

• In public speaking, we must embody what we are speaking from. ~Christian F. Johnson [12:57]

• “You have to be you; everybody else is taken.” ~Christian F Johnson [15:07]

• You already have everything you need to succeed; we just sometimes need external things to remind us of what we already have. ~Christian F Johnson [16:29]

• “Spend time loving over hating.” ~Christian F Johnson [35:08]

• Healing is just applying love to the places that are hurting. ~Ben Albert [35:27]

• “You don’t need a new voice; you just need to return to your authentic voice.” ~Christian F Johnson [48:29]

• “What you feed will live, and what you starve will die.” ~Christian F Johnson [48:58]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. When You’re Speaking, But Still Silent: https://amzn.to/4rfJ7kI

2. Kingdom Legacy House Church: https://klh.life

Keep In Touch with Christian F Johnson:

Website: https://iamchristianfjohnson.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamchristianfjohnson/

Email: info@iamchristianfjohnson.com

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #32 with John David Mann.

Success is often chased through achievement, status, and outcomes. But what if real fulfillment comes from contribution, creativity, and who we become along the way?

In this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” episode from the GrowGetters ONLY Inner Circle, we’re joined by John David Mann — co-author of The Go-Giver, master storyteller, and one of the most respected voices in modern business writing.

John shares the philosophy behind his work, exploring how generosity, service, and intention create deeper impact than transactional success. He discusses the discipline of creativity, the responsibility of storytellers, and the mindset required to produce meaningful work that stands the test of time.

The conversation also dives into purpose-driven leadership, becoming valuable instead of chasing value, and why the most influential ideas come from alignment rather than ambition alone.

If you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or leader who wants your work to matter, this conversation will stay with you.

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. The Go-Giver (and other books by John David Mann):

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001JP1Y50/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=557dc7c0-ecf4-426b-8128-5a88a5e73442&ref_=aufs_ap_ahdr_dsk_aa&ccs_id=fb40da27-a1b9-45d2-a4c2-2c58cf3c9d10 

Keep In Touch with John David Mann:

Website: https://johndavidmann.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndavidmann/

—

Join GrowGetters ONLY

Inner-Circle: https://growgettersonly.com/

Community: https://weallgrowtogether.com/

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #150 with Tansel Ali.

Being an entrepreneur demands focus, sharp thinking, and the ability to remember what matters most. However, our brains prioritize certain information and can become overloaded, causing us to forget important things.

So how can we train our memory to effortlessly recall even the smallest but most important details, like names and numbers? Find out in this episode featuring Tansel Ali, a four-time Australian Memory Champion, international bestselling author, and memory mentor.

In this episode, Tansel dives into how our brains really work and why we forget things. Moreover, he shares practical tips for improving memory, including the techniques he uses when training his clients.

Tansel explores whether memory champions are born or made, showing that anyone can train their brain to achieve remarkable focus and recall. You’ll also discover simple ways to boost your memory, including a quick 5-minute daily brain workout, and learn why consistency is king in memory training.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[03:03] Why We Forget

[05:38] Improve Your Memory

[15:22] Becoming a Memory Champion

[19:27] Brain Training

[21:47] Website: https://tanselali.com/

[24:36] 5-Minute Brain Workout

[38:50] Consistency is king

[41:30] Memory League

• Website: https://memoryleague.com/

[47:10] Connect with Tansel Ali

• Website: https://tanselali.com/ 

Key Takeaways:  

• The reason why we forget is that our brain prioritizes certain information and sometimes becomes overloaded. ~Tansel Ali [03:03]

• You can train your brain to increase its encoding speed, allowing you to memorize and retain more information. ~Tansel Ali [13:42]

• Our brain cannot distinguish between what’s real and what isn’t. ~Tansel Ali [25:18]

• “If you do something consistently, you will naturally improve.” ~Tansel Ali [38:56]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Memory League: https://memoryleague.com/

Keep In Touch with Tansel Ali:

Website: https://tanselali.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanselali/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tansel.a.l.i/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TanselAliMemory

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #149 with Dr. Indre Viskontas.

We are all musical creatures, and musical elements exist in everything we participate in. Just as music shapes our experiences, it also influences creativity, guiding how we think, problem-solve, and bring ideas to life.

Joining us on the show is Dr. Indre Viskontas, a cognitive neuroscientist, creativity expert, Opera Singer, and science communicator. She’s also the host of Inquiring Minds podcast and author of How Music Can Make You Better.

In this episode, Dr. Indre Viskontas explores whether creating music is instinctive or something we learn. Moreover, she discusses the impact of AI and digital tools on music-making and the reasons why people are drawn to create music.

Dr. Indre Viskontas also discusses the importance of embracing the struggle, showing how it applies not just to music but to entrepreneurship and life in general. Listeners will also discover the common traits of creative people and the factors that influence creativity.

Finally, Dr. Indre Viskontas shares details about her LinkedIn Learning course, Building Creative Thinking from the Brain Up, which provides practical strategies to strengthen your own creative potential.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[06:35] Creating Music

[13:39] AI & Digital Tools

[18:35] Why Make Music

[29:51] Embrace the Struggle

[34:49] Creativity

[42:24] LinkedIn Learning Course: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/building-creative-thinking-from-the-brain-up 

[47:12] Website: https://www.tsfnc.org/

[56:28] Connect with Dr. Indre Viskontas

• Website: https://www.indreviskontas.com/ 

• Podcast: https://inquiring.show/ 

Key Takeaways:  

• Children born in resource-poor environments tend to have higher cortisol levels for the rest of their lives because they are conditioned to see life as stressful and to react constantly. ~Dr. Indre Viskontas [07:40]

• “Music is our first language.” ~Dr. Indre Viskontas [12:39]

• The difference between amateur creatives and executors is the ability to stay comfortable in the struggle. ~Dr. Indre Viskontas [29:51]

• Creative people are open to new experiences. ~Dr. Indre Viskontas [35:00]

• External motivators kill creativity. ~Dr. Indre Viskontas [40:03]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Peter Gabriel

2. LinkedIn Learning Course: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/building-creative-thinking-from-the-brain-up

3. How Music Can Make You Better: https://www.amazon.com/How-Music-Can-Make-Better/dp/1452171920

Keep In Touch with Dr. Indre Viskontas:

Website: https://www.indreviskontas.com/

Podcast: https://inquiring.show/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/DrIndreViskontas/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/indre-viskontas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drindredirects

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #31 with Robin Waite.

Joining us in this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” episode from GrowGetters ONLY is Robin Waite, better known as The Fearless Business Coach. Robin is a straight-talking expert in pricing, packaging, and positioning your services. Additionally, he is a regular keynote speaker at business events and the bestselling author of several books, including Fearless Business Blueprint, Marketing Machine, and Take Your Shot.

In this episode, Robin dives into how to structure your offers, set prices that reflect your value, and stop undercharging out of fear so you can attract better-fit clients. Moreover, he outlines three practical steps to doubling your income and shares a practical pricing case study.

Robin wraps up by exploring the three types of niches and guiding listeners on how to identify their own. He also explains how to scale a coaching business.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Introduction

[00:55] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com

[01:47] Fearless business coach

[07:32] Double your income

[20:23] Setting your pricing

[36:01] Finding your niche

[48:30] Connect with Robin

• Get a FREE book!: https://www.fearless.biz/books

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/RobinMWaite

[01:12:24] Scale your coaching business

Key Takeaways:  

• If your business is unprofitable and you try to scale it by adding more clients, you’re only scaling the lack of profitability. ~Robin Waite [12:16]

• In coaching, clients don’t pay for the work you do; they pay for the results and outcomes you help them achieve. ~Robin Waite [22:32]

• When we don’t place value on a tool, our subconscious believes we’re undeserving and pushes us away from it. ~Robin Waite [23:43]

• For most service-based client businesses, the optimal conversion rate is about 20–30%. ~Robin Waite [24:38]

• “If you find it hard to attract clients, it could be because you’re in the wrong market.” ~Robin Waite [43:32]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. The Prosperous Coach: https://bit.ly/3NIRuXz

2. Robin Waite’s FREE books: https://www.fearless.biz/books

Get a free book!

• If you have a service/client business, Take Your Shot - https://www.robinwaite.com/tys 

• If you’re going through a reset for your business, then The Fearless Business Blueprint is the right book for you: https://www.robinwaite.com/fbb

Keep In Touch with Robin Waite:

Website: https://www.robinwaite.com/

Books: https://www.fearless.biz/books

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/RobinMWaite

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinmwaite/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinmwaite/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobinMWaite/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #148 with Scott Rouse. 

Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/YdNN7JzeP3U

Understanding how to read body language can give you a powerful edge in business, especially when pitching ideas or negotiating deals. By reading nonverbal cues and conveying confidence through your own gestures, you can build trust, influence decisions, and communicate more effectively.

In this insightful episode, Ben Albert sits down with Scott Rouse, a behavior analyst, body language expert, and one of the four members of The Behavior Panel, a YouTube platform with over 1.1 million subscribers and more than 212 million views.

Scott discusses how body movements influence the tone and delivery of your voice and offers practical tips for public speaking. Moreover, he takes listeners behind the scenes of interrogation rooms, revealing the real tactics and techniques used.

The conversation goes further into intuition, exploring whether it’s innate or a skill you can develop. Scott also shares a simple tip on how to use eye contact to spot when someone is lying.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[05:09] Pitching

[12:30] Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/YdNN7JzeP3U 

[12:40] Body Movement & Tone

[13:48] Public Speaking Secrets

[22:01] Interrogation room

[24:15] Interrogation Techniques

[36:15] Intuition

[42:34] Connect with Scott Rouse

• Behavior X: https://www.youtube.com/c/scottrouse

• The Behavior Panel: https://www.youtube.com/c/thebehaviorpanel

• Body Language Tactics Course: https://body-language-tactics.mykajabi.com/body-language-tactics-landing

[43:48] Integration tip 

Key Takeaways:  

• When you feel better, you sound better and stay more on point because your mind is focused. ~Scott Rouse [13:12]

• When speaking to a large audience, treat the entire group as if it were one person. This makes your talk feel conversational. ~Scott Rouse [13:56]

• People like people who are like them and who are genuine, not putting on an act. ~Scott Rouse [20:38]

• When someone is lying to you, they often maintain eye contact. Their brain wonders, ‘Do they believe me?’ If not, they add qualifiers to convince you. ~Scott Rouse [44:02]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. 48 Hours: https://www.youtube.com/user/48hours

2. The Female Brain: https://bit.ly/49PeBsh

Keep In Touch with Scott Rouse:

Website: https://www.scottrouse.com/

Twitter: https://x.com/ScottRouse3

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottrouse3/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottRouse4

YouTube (Behavior X): https://www.youtube.com/c/scottrouse

YouTube (The Behavior Panel): https://www.youtube.com/c/thebehaviorpanel

Learn Speak Teach Episode #147 with Amberly Lago.

Even during life’s most challenging moments, you can find joy by focusing on the good in your life and appreciating what you’ve already overcome. Finding joy in these moments strengthens your spirit and gives you the resilience to move forward.

Today, we are joined by Amberly Lago, a Top Influential Speaker, Global Top 1% Podcast Host, and the author of multiple best-selling books, including Joy Through the Journey.

Amberly shares her inspiring journey and the insights behind her latest book, Joy Through the Journey. Moreover, she dives into the power of choosing positivity and practicing gratitude, showing how these simple yet powerful shifts can create more joy in everyday life.

In addition, Amberly provides practical strategies for finding happiness, even amidst life’s challenges, making the pursuit of joy accessible to everyone. She also highlights her upcoming Unstoppable Success Summit 2026 and offers tactical practices for living a joyful life.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:03] Joy Through the Journey

[07:16] LST #17: https://realbusinessconnections.com/podcast/amberly/

[09:02] Positivity & Gratitude

[17:17] Finding joy

[26:59] Unstoppable Success Summit 2026 

[32:36] Website: https://amberlylago.com/

[40:53] Podcast: https://amberlylago.com/podcast/

[42:03] Joy tactics

Key Takeaways:  

• “Pain demands to be heard.” ~Amberly Lago [03:13]

• “Joy is a choice, not a constant.” ~Amberly Lago [03:37]

• If you’re going through a hard time, focus on the good in your life, even when it feels difficult. ~Amberly Lago [05:32]

• Gratitude is a form of alchemy: it shifts your mindset, helping you focus on what you have instead of what you don’t have, and on what you can do instead of what you can’t do.” ~Amberly Lago [10:50]

• Pain and joy can coexist; it’s up to us to build on the joy. ~Amberly Lago [16:22]

• When you’re going through a tough struggle, the easiest and quickest way to shift your mindset is through gratitude. ~Amberly Lago [42:34]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Joy Through the Journey: https://amberlylago.com/book/

2. My Spiritual Toolkit app: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.myspiritualtoolkit.mytoolkit&hl=en

Keep In Touch with Amberly Lago:

Website: https://amberlylago.com/

X: https://x.com/amberlylago

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberlylago/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberlylagomotivation/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1PfuUb5fgT90e29aDKB6nQ

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #146 with Jenn Drummond.

Everyone is on a climb, pursuing their own mountain, whether it is a personal goal, a career milestone, or a life challenge. The journey can be tough, but by finding joy in the incremental progress we make and treating ourselves with kindness along the way, we gain the strength to keep moving forward and achieve more than we ever imagined.

Jenn Drummond is a testament to this. She is a world record mountaineer, a performance mentor, and the first and only woman to climb the second-highest summit on every continent. She is also the host of the Seek Your Summit podcast and the founder of The Summit Series, a live weekly experience for high performers looking to climb higher in every area of life.

In this episode, Jenn shares her journey, including a near-death experience that became a turning point in her life and the behind-the-scenes of her mountain climbing adventures. She also opens up about why she returned to climbing after losing a teammate to an avalanche, and how finding joy in incremental progress has kept her moving forward.

You’ll also hear about Jenn’s favorite mountains, the vision behind The Summit Series, her upcoming climbs, and how she builds a team that supports her goals.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:32] Near-Death Experience

[05:06] Mountain Climbing

[16:08] Most Difficult Climb

[23:54] Back to Climbing

[28:24] Joy in Progress

[31:57] Favourite Mountain

[32:46] Connect with Jenn

• Website: https://jenndrummond.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-drummond/

[33:46] The Summit Series

• Website: https://jenndrummond.com/summit

[37:12] Upcoming Mountain Climb

[39:14] Building a team

[44:49] Closing remarks

Key Takeaways:  

• “Accountability is love.” ~Jenn Drummond [09:01]

• “The bigger the goal, the more people you need on your side to help make it happen.” ~Jenn Drummond [15:41]

• Loving growth means appreciating every step of progress. ~Jenn Drummond [28:40]

• “Being kind to yourself makes you stronger.” ~Jenn Drummond [44:51]

Keep In Touch with Jenn Drummond:

Website: https://jenndrummond.com/

Podcast: https://jenndrummond.com/podcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-drummond/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejenndrummond

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jenndrummond

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejenndrummond

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenndrummondutah

X: https://x.com/thejenndrummond

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #145 with Simona Costantini.

Making video content is not just about having the right equipment. Videos resonate most with your audience when they are crafted with strategy, authenticity, and a deep understanding of their needs.

In this episode, we learn from Simona Costantini, Founder and CEO of VOLT Productions, podcast producer and strategist, and host of As It Relates to Podcasting and Happiness Happens.

Simona shares insights into what it takes to be great on camera, how to ensure your videos & livestreams add value, and how to choose content topics that truly resonate with your audience. Additionally, she explains how to craft sound bites that make your message memorable and shareable.

Beyond content creation, Simona explores the meaning of happiness and the importance of choosing yourself and prioritizing your own well-being. Let’s tap into some of her wisdom.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:32] Being Great on Camera

[05:38] Valuable Content

[10:42] Content Topics

[12:47] Podcast: https://www.voltproductions.co/podcast

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tlry97spKc8_lJ-7g3hew

[13:03] Sound bites

[22:02] Happiness

[31:36] Choosing yourself

[41:27] Integration assignment

[41:58] Connect with Simona

• Website: https://www.voltproductions.co/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volt.productions

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simona-costantini-25653a30/

Key Takeaways:

• When creating videos, podcasts, and livestreams, answer every question as if you are speaking in sound bites. ~Simona Costantini [06:37]

• "Happiness happens when you are least expecting it." ~Simona Costantini [13:58]

• “Podcasting is the most intimate relationship you will ever have with your audience.” ~Simona Costantini [14:28]

• “Happiness is inner peace.” ~Simona Costantini [22:27]

• “Happiness is a choice. ~Simona Costantini [22:38]

Keep In Touch with Simona Costantini:

Website: https://www.voltproductions.co/

Website (Personal): https://www.simonacostantini.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/volt.productions

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simona-costantini-25653a30/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tlry97spKc8_lJ-7g3hew

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to engage your audience and drive meaningful results. By understanding the strategies, tools, and techniques behind successful emails, you can turn your email list into a powerful growth engine for your business.

Today’s exclusive “Ask Me Anything” episode from the GrowGetters Only community features Liz Wilcox, famously known as the “Fresh Princess of Email.” Liz shares her journey to becoming the “Fresh Princess of Email” and the unique strategies that set her apart in the world of email marketing.

Liz also discusses how to use video effectively in email marketing, the power of the PS (postscript), and how to craft emails that capture attention and keep readers engaged. Additionally, she shares practical tips for making every email you send truly valuable to your audience.

Beyond writing great emails, Liz discusses open and click rates, boosting engagement, and building an email list that people actually read and respond to.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Introduction

[00:46] Community: weallgrowtogether.com

[02:28] Fresh Princess of Email

[04:01] Email Strategy

[08:26] Video in Email Marketing

[14:40] Artificial intelligence (AI)

[16:12] The Power of the PS

[21:02] Emails that get read

[27:42] Value 

[37:15] Open & Click Rates

[47:13] Email List

[53:58] Connect with Liz Wilcox

• Website: https://lizwilcox.com/

•  Email Marketing Membership: https://benalbertfylc315--lizwilcox.thrivecart.com/email-marketing-membership/ 

Key Takeaways:  

• Instead of storytelling in emails, share personal updates with your audience. ~Liz Wilcox [05:49]

• Emails should never exceed 400 words. ~Liz Wilcox [21:03]

• Email is the most effective way to make money through marketing. ~Liz Wilcox [21:55]

• Email metrics are never entirely accurate due to technological glitches. ~Liz Wilcox [38:18]

• The best way to boost your open and click rates is to ensure your welcome sequence engages people. ~Liz Wilcox [39:33]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Kit: https://kit.com/

2. Website: https://lizwilcox.com/?affiliate=benalbertfylc315

3. Email Marketing Membership: https://benalbertfylc315--lizwilcox.thrivecart.com/email-marketing-membership/

4. The Power of the PS: https://lizwilcox.com/episode-38-the-power-of-the-ps/

5. Boosting Open & Click Rates: https://lizwilcox.com/episode-34-boosting-open-and-click-rates/

6. 7 Reasons You Hate Email and Why to Ignore It: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TE0mprUg2D0

7. 7 Complaints About Email: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3Nn4imuLxc&t=1s

8. 7 Different Ways to Use AI in Email: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7aIySNDCWpo

9. AI Podcast Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jWlx8l_kVE&t=182s

10. Funnels in 2025 and Beyond: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqqFUJz2MAM&t=26s

11. Opens and Clicks Deep Dive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHSvbjJb1U0&t=1026s

12. Extra Email Training: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7I6I4jhvYdM

Keep In Touch with Liz Wilcox:

Website: https://lizwilcox.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelizwilcox/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thelizwilcox

Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/emailmarketingwithliz

Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/emailmarketingwithliz

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #144 with Nick Gray.

Making new friends doesn’t have to be challenging. With the right approach, you can build meaningful personal relationships and grow valuable business connections with ease.

Joining us today is Nick Gray, an entrepreneur and the author of the best-selling book The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings.

In the episode, Nick shares practical tips on how to make new friends and expand your social circle. He also highlights trending tools that make connecting with others easier, whether for personal growth or business networking.

Nick also dives into his viral blind date that gained 27 million impressions, offering an inside look at what made it so successful. Moreover, he discusses how to create a Personal Friend Newsletter that provides real value and fosters genuine connections.

Finally, Nick discusses the importance of having a personal website and shares tips for creating one that stands out. He also provides guidance on how to tour a museum for the best possible experience.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:17] Nick’s First Time On The Show

 https://realbusinessconnections.com/podcast/nickgray/

[02:30] Making New Friends

[03:40] The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: https://bit.ly/3Ix0OYk

[06:05] Viral blind date

[07:40] Friend Newsletter

[20:33] Personal Website

[24:01] PersonalWebsites.net

[25:21] http://realbenalbert.com

[29:18] PersonalWebsite.org

[32:59] Museum Hack

[48:01] Connect with Nick 

• Friend Newsletter: https://nickgray.net/signup-for-email-updates/

• The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: https://party.pro/book/

Key Takeaways:  

• When sending a friendship newsletter, focus on adding value first, such as offering personal recommendations. ~Nick Gray [10:56]

• “Perfect is the enemy of good. ~Nick Gray [15:45]

• Including a picture of yourself in your friend newsletter is helpful because it creates a personal and human connection. ~Nick Gray [19:52]

• A personal website is one of the simplest ways to influence the first few results that appear on Google and ChatGPT. ~Nick Gray [20:56]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: https://bit.ly/3Ix0OYk

2. Partiful: https://partiful.com/

3. Luma: https://luma.com/

4. Carrd: https://carrd.co/

5. nownownow.com

Keep In Touch with Nick Gray:

Website: https://nickgray.net/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nickgraynews

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickgraynews/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickgraynews/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newfriend?fref=ts

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/nickgray

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #143 with Mark Schaefer.

AI is evolving every day, and it is getting incredibly close to producing human-like responses. As this happens, the big question becomes: will the most human companies still win?

In this episode, Ben is joined by Mark Schaefer, author, marketing thought leader, and a fourth time guest on the podcast. Mark also has a new book titled How AI Changes Your Customers. Together, they dive into the intersection of AI and humanity in business and unpack a critical question for our times: does the most human company still win even as artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated?

Whether you want to stand out against the rising tide of AI or find new ways to blend technology with real human connection, this episode offers nuggets of wisdom to help your brand move to the next level. Grab a notebook and pen and tune in.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:31] Human first companies

[04:56] Tactical empathy

[05:45] Strategic awkwardness

[10:19] Creativity and art in businesses

[17:15] AI in a decade

[18:01] The Diaper Business blog

[20:00] Offsite versus onsite marketing

[23:08] AI as a decision marker vs overrides

[26:46] Creating override in decision making

[30:24] Transcendent content

[35:39] Brand culture

[39:05] AI relationships

[45:03] Get Mark’s book

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/How-Changes-Your-Customers-Marketing-ebook/dp/B0FQ67TBHF  

[47:19] Creative ways to use AI

Key Takeaways:  

• "In the future, the most human company might be a blend of real people and AI."~Mark Schaefer [02:51]

• "AI is not empathetic. It gives the illusion of empathy." ~Mark Schaefer [03:46]

• "Behind these AI interactions is a business plan."~Mark Schaefer [05:01]

• "The real human value comes down to vulnerability and shared experiences." ~Mark Schaefer [08:35]

• What's missing in the business voice today is this human connection, friendliness, accessibility, and vulnerability. ~Dr. Philip Kotler [12:01]

• "There's no such thing as a weakness.There's just an overdone strength." ~Mark Schaefer [40:16]

• You've got to bring the thunder every time. In everything that you do, double down on the quality. It's really the only way to win in this noisy world.~Mark Schaefer [51:52]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Marketing Rebellion

2. Belonging to the Brand

Keep In Touch with Mark Schaefer:

Website:  https://businessesgrow.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwschaefer/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MarkSchaefer 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Rochester Business Connections Episode #152 with Eric Winegard.

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/lemHfNQRwbA

Is it too late for you to transition from corporate to entrepreneurship? Eric Winegard believes it’s never too late. He walked away from corporate life as a top-producing Vice President and took a leap into entrepreneurship. Together with his wife, Eric has built Rare Blue Moon Marketing into an eight-figure business heading toward nine figures.

In this episode, Eric Winegard joins Ben Albert on the show to share nuggets of wisdom on how we can create successful businesses no matter where we are. Eric advocates for starting marketing efforts by first understanding social media platforms and creating content that resonates with your audience. He also emphasizes the power of networking and shares how we can use AI to generate unlimited leads.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Grab a notebook and pen, Eric has some powerful notes for you to take home.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:22] Timing

[02:22] The competitive Eric

[04:37] The exit from corporate

[08:21] Entrepreneurship mindset

[10:23] Entrepreneurship takeaways

[11:28] Services: addition vs subtraction

[17:14] Limitless leads

[24:02] Learn about Eric’s AI

runday.ai

[24:35] Inception of Rare Blue Moon Marketing

[32:50] Working with your partner

[40:55] Business owner marketing

[50:53] Support Eric Winegard

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericwinegardofficial/

Website: https://rarebluemoon.io/eric-alexis-winegard/

[52:27] Sales tip

Key Takeaways: 

• People will tell you that the best producers don't always make the best managers, but a lot of times you can learn so much from them. ~Eric Winegard [03:46]

• “There's a lot to learn in business. It's not just sales.” ~ Eric Winegard [09:51]

• I think in a way AI is going to be a blessing because the birth rate is so low, the people to service these low-level jobs aren’t even going to be there. ~ Eric Winegard [15:23]

• “No business relationship is built without trust, and trust is built through conversation.” ~Ben Albert [21:53]

• “I can't stress enough how many people don't take this step because they're just insecure about what other people are going to say.” ~Eric Winegard [45:25]

• “People do business with the best people.” ~ Eric Winegard [53:40]

Keep In Touch with Eric Winegard:

Website: https://rarebluemoon.io/eric-alexis-winegard/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-winegard-93892717/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericwinegardofficial/ 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

RBC is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #142 with Danielle Fette.

If you cut part of your finger and it fell to the floor, what do you think would be the best way to fix it? Have it sewn back? That’s the traditional approach medicine would take. Danielle Fette and her company have invented a technology that gives your body instructions to regrow the missing part of your finger. With this technology, sewing a body part back is no longer necessary.

In this episode, Danielle Fette joins Ben Albert to discuss the revolution Fettech is bringing to the healthcare industry. Danielle and her husband, Clay Fette, are the co-founders of the company.

Danielle tells Ben about surviving a plane fire in July 2025, becoming ‘the wound girl,’ and how she and her husband are transforming the healthcare industry through their companies, among other fascinating stories.

Tune in for an in-depth conversation. 

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:39] July 2025

[08:53] Reaction to trauma

[09:37] Victim mentality

[11:13] Dwelling versus moving on too fast

[12:43] Latest trend

[13:35] The power couple

[17:34] Divide and conquer

[24:00] Support Danielle Fette

Website: https://www.fettech.com/  

[26:55] Changing lives

[29:22] Is Fettech hiring?

[34:06] How Danielle became the wound girl

[38:58] What’s next for Danielle?

[44:38] Connect with Danielle Fette

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielle.fette/  

Key Takeaways:  

• I try not to forget when I go through hard times, because then it makes me appreciate the good times, but I don't let it define me. ~Danielle Fette [09:10]

• “If things were good all the time, I don't know how great we'd be at growing and evolving. There'd be no reason to.”~Danielle Fette [14:29]

• Scarring is a beautiful thing. It's basically saying, "Hey, cells, let's quickly put a patch there so there's no further injury or an infection that happens in the body.” ~Danielle Fette [20:27]

• We all want to feel good in life, but unless you get in tune with your health, notice when something feels off, and speak up for yourself, you're going to get screwed in healthcare. ~Maria Menounos [24:36]

• You have to work with people you're able to communicate with and you respect, whether you see eye to eye or not. ~Danielle Fette [32:17]

• “My motto is, we're all going to be patients one day. Treat people the way you want to be treated.” ~Danielle Fette [37:58]

Keep In Touch with Danielle Fette:

Website: https://www.fettech.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielle.fette/ 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danielle-fette 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #29 with Stan Phelps.

Most businesses lose their edge by imitating competitors instead of embracing their uniqueness. One powerful way to stand out is to do less of what everyone else does and focus on what truly sets your brand apart, creating a lasting impact.

In this exclusive ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode from the Growgetters ONLY Inner Circle, we are thrilled to have Stan Phelps, a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, marketing strategist, customer experience expert and author of the Goldfish Series of books.

Stan dives into the concept of Lagniappe, the idea of giving a little extra that leaves a lasting impression. Moreover, he shares the strategies he uses to ensure that the lessons from his talks continue to resonate with audiences long after the talks are over.

As the conversation unfolds, he explains how to use Sampling in business effectively. He also explores the Purple Goldfish concept and how to ensure your unique offering aligns with the needs and desires of your ideal client.

Finally, he breaks down what makes workshops successful and the common mistakes to avoid. He also shares insights from Pink Goldfish on embracing and owning your unique qualities.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Introduction

[01:15] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com

[01:46] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/

[06:31] What is Lagniappe?

[14:34] Lasting Lessons

[20:41] Sampling

[22:41] Purple Goldfish

[26:24] Connecting with Clients

[36:20] Workshops

[44:11] Embrace Your Uniqueness

[49:36] Connect with Stan

•  Website: https://stanphelps.com/Lagniappe/

Key Takeaways:  

• Referral clients stay longer as customers and spend up to twice as much over their lifetime compared to non-referral clients. ~Stan Phelps [19:28]

• On average, people who are already working with you know only 30% of your total capabilities. ~Stan Phelps [20:21]

• Sampling is the idea of giving your customers additional taste and letting them try out an additional capability. ~Stan Phelps [20:41]

• If you’re not pissing some people off, you’re probably not relevant to many. ~Stan Phelps [23:13]

• Take care of the customers you have, and they will bring you the clients and valuable customers you want. ~Stan Phelps [29:25]

• One way to stand out is by doing less of what everyone else does. ~Stan Phelps [45:58]

• You begin to achieve success when you focus and become known for something. ~Stan Phelps [46:35]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. The Goldfish Series: https://stanphelps.com/books/

Keep In Touch with Stan Phelps:

Website: https://stanphelps.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanphelps/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/PurpleGoldfishBooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/StanPhelpsPG

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Rochester Business Connections Episode #151 with Jesse Cruz.

Have you ever experienced stage fright? That sudden wave of panic just before you face an audience, when your heart races and your mind goes blank. It can make even the most prepared person doubt themselves, yet it’s not a sign of weakness.

Today, Jesse Cruz shares tips on how we can deal with stage fright. Jesse Cruz is an internationally recognized, award winning speaker, best selling author, and coach specializing in speaker development. He is also the founder and CEO of Merge Worldwide.

One powerful lesson Jesse shared came straight from his military experience: “Mission First.” This principle isn’t just for the battlefield; clarity on your mission and the people you’re serving is the foundation for success, both in business and when stepping up as a speaker. Keeping your mission in mind ensures that every decision and action moves you and your audience forward.

According to Jesse, your phone should be your stage. It doesn’t matter how many followers you have; it’s a great starting point. You can go live on any of your social media platforms, for instance, once a week. Always look at it like a stage and never forget to put your audience at the center of your talk. Jesse also shares actionable tips on how to choose a topic and manage being on a physical stage.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:29] Communication leadership in the military

[02:37] Keynote speaking

[05:53] Knowing your audience

[07:32] Signature talks

[11:21] On the spot workshop

[13:44] How Jesse got into communication

[15:42] Rejection

[18:24] Finding your tribe

[22:50] Playing small

[26:11] Don’t mute your voice

[26:58] Criticism

[30:32] Your phone, your stage

[33:18] Getting on a physical stage

[38:54] Connect with Jesse Cruz

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/jesse.cruz.5/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-cruz-133714164/ 

[41:58] Partner with Jesse

[42:58] Choosing a topic

Key Takeaways:  

• I believe if you want to go faster, you hire a master that can help you and has already walked the path that you've been on. ~Jesse Cruz [04:34]

• Sometimes speakers get on stage, and they want to make the talk all about themselves, and it's not really helping. ~Jesse Cruz [04:52]

• “Not every stage opportunity is your opportunity.” ~Jesse Cruz [07:48]

• When someone's building out a signature talk, they want to focus on the universal principles that most humanity can agree upon. ~Jesse Cruz [09:44]

• “Never take criticism from someone you wouldn't take advice from.” ~Jesse Cruz [27:51]

• The people who are actually very successful, their criticism does not come from a place of envy or hatred. If they were to give you criticism, it's constructive criticism. ~Jesse Cruz [28:14]

• “When you are building a business, don't listen to the people closest to you. Listen to the people closest to your goal.” ~Jesse Cruz [28:55]

• “You actually have a stage in your pocket everywhere you go, because you have a phone.” ~Jesse Cruz [30:49]

• “You don't have to have this crazy inspiring story to have a great message to share.” ~Ben Albert [40:46]

• “Painful lessons usually turn into profitable lessons.” ~Jesse Cruz [43:59]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Erica Mallett Episode: https://realbusinessconnections.com/podcast/ericamallett/ 

Keep In Touch with Jesse Cruz:

Website: https://mergeworldwide.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesse.cruz.5 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-cruz-133714164 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessecruzspeaks/ 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

RBC is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #141 with Richard Moore.

The majority of people join LinkedIn to find new clients, yet many struggle to convert their engagement into actual business. You may be getting likes, follows, and comments, but are you actually converting them into sales?

In this episode, Ben Albert speaks with Richard Moore, a conversion coach who specializes in helping coaches and consultants convert on LinkedIn through their content. He is also the founder of LinkedIn Client Accelerator and the Art of Sell.

Richard discusses why spam happens, how to minimize it, and the best ways to reach out to potential connections. He also dives into cold-selling strategies and shares how to comment on LinkedIn in ways that resonate with your audience.

As the conversation unfolds, he explains why copying successful LinkedIn personalities won’t get you the results you want and how to develop your own authentic presence that stands out.

Lastly, Richard gives an inside look at his Art of Sell Membership program and how it benefits members. He also shares practical sales conversation tips you can start using right away to engage and confidently convert prospects.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:00] LinkedIn Spam

[11:12] Cold Selling

[18:53] Commenting on LinkedIn

[33:00] Copying Won’t Work

[43:08] Art of Sell

[50:46] Join Art of Sell

• Website: https://www.therichardmoore.com/artofsell

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjamesmoore/

[52:27] Sales Conversation Tip

Key Takeaways:  

• No one likes to be sold to, but they love shopping with their friends. ~Richard Moore [11:43]

• The main reason most people join LinkedIn is to acquire new clients. ~Richard Moore [22:42]

• LinkedIn deals originate from individual interactions, not from high-volume activity. ~Richard Moore [26:00]

• Having money does not make the customer the prize. You are the prize because your role is to solve their problem with your solution. ~Richard Moore [53:25]

• In sales, embodying your role as the expert is what closes deals. ~Richard Moore [53:36]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Justin Welsh

2. Alex Hormozi

3. Chris Van Vliet

Keep In Touch with Richard Moore:

Website: https://www.therichardmoore.com/

Art of Sell: https://www.therichardmoore.com/artofsell

LinkedIn Client Accelerator: https://www.therichardmoore.com/linkedin-client-accelerator

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjamesmoore/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.richard.moore/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@richardmoore8614/featured

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #28 with Heather Parady.

Many entrepreneurs struggle to break through the market noise and create content that truly resonates with their audience. However, by leveraging the art of storytelling in content creation, they can share their stories in a compelling way that captivates audiences and builds meaningful connections.

“In this exclusive ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode from the GrowGetters Only community, we learn from Heather Parady, a short-form video strategist, master storyteller, and host of Unconventional Leaders.

Heather dives into the psychology behind viral storytelling and shares insights on crafting videos that resonate with audiences. She discusses the origin of her ideas, what fuels her creativity, and how her unique personality influences the content she creates.

Heather also provides practical guidance on getting started with storytelling through videos and navigating negative feedback. Additionally, she shares the tools she uses to simplify content creation and discusses how her videos impact her business.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Intro

[01:32] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com

[02:06] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/

[06:40] Ideas

[11:55] Personality

[18:33] Inauthentic Guests

[21:15] Storytelling

[25:34] Negative Feedback

[25:59] Website: https://www.heatherparady.com/untestimonials

[40:08] Impact

[41:30] Tools

[45:14] Media company

[49:31] Connect with Heather

• Blog: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog

Key Takeaways:  

• “If you have no tolerance for failure, you won’t create anything new.” ~Brené Brown [04:12]

• “Energy is the most undeniable thing. You can’t fake it.” ~Heather Parady [13:29]

• There is nothing more attractive or magnetic than being comfortable in your own skin. ~Heather Parady [13:44]

• Use Negative Feedback Objectively. ~Heather Parady [44:35]

• Sometimes you need to take a step back in order to move forward. ~Heather Parady [47:19]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Tommy Robinson

Keep In Touch with Heather Parady:

Website: https://www.heatherparady.com/

Podcast: https://www.heatherparady.com/podcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherParady

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/

Blog: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #140 with Jeff C West.

Many people hold misconceptions about money and wealth without realizing how these beliefs shape their decisions and limit their potential. Understanding and confronting these misconceptions is the first step toward true financial independence.

Today, we are joined by Jeff C. West, renowned speaker and international authority on sales & leadership, and acclaimed author of business parables including The Unexpected Tour Guide, Said the Lady with the Blue Hair, Streetwise to Saleswise, and his most recent book, The Hidden Heist: Stop Robbing Yourself of Lasting Wealth.

In the episode, Jeff shares the inspiration behind his latest book, The Hidden Heist, and gives listeners a glimpse of some of its powerful insights. He opens up about his writing journey, explaining how he got started, why he writes in parables, and where his ideas come from.

Jeff also shares key sales lessons and uncovers common misconceptions about money and wealth, showing how these beliefs subtly shape our decisions.

Finally, Jeff introduces his Fusion Point concept, a framework built on aligning emotion and logic to boost sales and client retention. In addition, he shares practical tips for effective business conversations.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:27] The Hidden Heist

[08:30] Sales Lessons

[11:57] Money Misconceptions

[16:13] Books: https://jeffcwest.com/books/

[19:45] Journey Into Writing

[27:13] Books in Progress

[33:43] FusionPoint

[45:43] Connect with Jeff

• Website: https://jeffcwest.com/

• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffCWestAuthorSpeaker

• How Ordinary People Become Millionaires: https://bit.ly/48uMqOB

[47:27] Business Conversations

Key Takeaways:  

• “Sales presentations make people talk, while sales conversations make people ask questions and listen.” ~Jeff C West [09:01]

• Before anyone can change their actions, they must first change their mindset. ~Jeff C West [11:24]

• “Every decision is a combination of logic and emotion. The decisions we make often depend on which emotion is in the lead.” ~Jeff C West [35:17]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Michael Connelly

2. The Hidden Heist: https://jeffcwest.com/thehiddenheist/

3. Streetwise to Saleswise: https://jeffcwest.com/saleswise/

4. The Unexpected Tour Guide: https://jeffcwest.com/tutgbook/

5. Said the Lady with the Blue Hair: https://jeffcwest.com/bluehairbook/

6. How I Raised Myself From Failure To Success In Selling: https://bit.ly/4ieJkS0

7. The Lincoln Lawyer: https://bit.ly/44bwn5Z

8. The Case for Christ: https://bit.ly/48i79E3

9. Endless Referrals: https://bit.ly/4p8ytvS

Keep In Touch with Jeff C West:

Website: https://jeffcwest.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcwest/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffcwest/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.west.330

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffCWestAuthorSpeaker

Books: https://jeffcwest.com/books/

X: https://x.com/JeffCWestAuthor

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #139 with Anika Jackson.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is influencing nearly every industry and transforming the way we live, work, and connect with the world. Nevertheless, it’s essential to understand that AI is designed to enhance and support human efforts, not replace them.

Joining us on the show is Anika Jackson, a professor at USC Annenberg specializing in digital media management and social media, where she pioneered an AI-first curriculum. She is also the founder and podcast host of Your Brand Amplified®.

Anika shares insights on the latest trends in teaching AI. She explains what artificial intelligence is here to do for us, where it’s headed, and how its relationship with humans is evolving. She also opens up about her bold decision to leave her full-time job to pursue podcasting.

Anika takes us through her podcasting journey, explaining why she started Your Brand Amplified®, the motivation behind it, and the strategies she’s using to grow and succeed in the podcasting world. For a fun twist, the episode wraps up with an AI-generated rap recap that creatively summarizes the key insights from the conversation.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[01:08] Trends in Teaching AI

[08:48] From Underdog to Empowering Growth-Minded Leaders:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKvTFcaQaBU

[10:34] Understanding AI

[20:50] Quitting Full-Time Job

[25:48] Podcasting Journey

[41:00] Podcasting Goals

[43:11] From Underdog to Empowering Growth-Minded Leaders:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKvTFcaQaBU

[43:34] Connect & Support Anika

Podcast: https://yourbrandamplified.com/

Website: https://www.yourbrandedpodcast.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/

[45:15] AI Rap Recap

Key Takeaways:

• As humans, we know where we’re headed and the goals we want to accomplish. AI helps us get there. ~Anika Jackson [08:12]

• AI is a new species. ~Anika Jackson [10:35]

• AI is your partner. It’s here to support you, not take your place. ~Anika Jackson [15:50]

• The essence of being human lies in forming genuine connections. ~Anika Jackson [17:35]

• There are enough people in the world for everyone to have a business. ~Anika Jackson [23:18]

• If you follow your passion and what you’re highly skilled at, money will follow. ~Anika Jackson [25:40]

• AI helps, but it doesn’t lead. ~Anika Jackson [46:36]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Suno AI

2. Claude

Keep In Touch with Anika Jackson:

Podcast: https://yourbrandamplified.com/

Website: https://www.yourbrandedpodcast.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amplifywithanika/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #138 with Matthew Rouse.

Lately, layoffs have become the order of the day. Companies are replacing people with AI to cut costs and increase efficiency. As a result, many people are afraid for their jobs. But the truth is ,AI isn’t the devil it’s been painted to be. It has its good, bad, and ugly sides. Matthew Rouse, author, digital marketing expert, and self-proclaimed “AI Chicken Wrangler,” joins Ben Albert on the podcast to tackle one of today’s hottest questions: Will AI take my job?

Matthew Rouse, author, digital marketing expert, and self-proclaimed “AI Chicken Wrangler,” joins Ben Albert on the podcast to tackle one of today’s hottest questions: Will AI take my job?

From the rise of fully automated, AI-generated podcasts to the impact of machine learning on everything from technical support to farm labor, Ben and Matthew dive deep into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work, communicate, and even socialize.

They explore both the promise and pitfalls of AI, sharing personal stories and real-world examples of AI’s growing influence in editing, transcribing, and even job searching. Matt also reveals key insights from his new book, Will AI Take My Job 2? discussing not just which jobs are at risk, but also how we can partner with AI to stay ahead. This episode brings a candid look at the “good, the bad, and the ugly” future that technology might bring.

Grab your notebook and pen, you’ll want to take notes for this tech-driven future.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[01:09] Will AI take my job?

[04:21] AI-generated podcasts

[07:20] Bot conversations

[14:08] Jobs AI is guaranteed to take

[18:08] The ugly

[21:02] The bad

[24:35] The good

[25:55] AI in farming

[27:39] Grab Matthew’s book Will AI Take My Job 2?

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Will-AI-Take-Job-Organizations-ebook/dp/B0FNNKV5GL

Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/

[30:11] Training AI for the future

[32:23] The AI Chicken Wrangler

[34:41] Controversial AI takes

[37:46] Transparency in AI

[40:45] Household robots

[45:23] Connect with Matthew Rouse

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/

Website: https://matthewrouse.com/

[46:41] Partnering with AI

Key Takeaways:  

• “50% of people surveyed said they do not want to listen to AI-created podcasts.” ~Matthew Rouse [09:39]

• If the point with AI is to get information across, it's fine. But if the point is to have a human connection with people, then no. ~Matthew Rouse [06:49]

• “In my world, almost 100% of businesses are using AI.” ~Matthew Rouse [17:35]

• “If we think for one minute that there isn’t going to be automation or robots everywhere soon, then we’re fooling ourselves.” ~Matthew Rouse [22:20]

• The good side is that AI creates tons of new jobs and opportunities, ones people actually like better which increases prosperity for everyone. ~Matthew Rouse [24:36]

• “The best way to stay relevant is partnering with AI.” ~Matthew Rouse [34:44]

• “The amount of power and usage for the amount of output you get from AI drops by almost 90% a year.” ~Matthew Rouse [36:50]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Will AI take my Job 2?

2. Digital Marketing Masters Podcast

Keep In Touch with Matthew Rouse:

Website: https://matthewrouse.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/ 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #137 with Eric Jorgenson.

Scribe Media, once a top name in the publishing world, fell from industry leader in 2021 to bankruptcy by May 2023. Its collapse left hundreds of employees and freelancers jobless, authors who had paid in full with nothing in return, and investors defrauded of millions.

In this episode, Eric Jorgenson shares how he stepped in as CEO of Scribe Media during its most turbulent chapter and the ongoing journey to rebuild the company’s reputation, trust, and future.

Eric breaks down Scribe’s carefully designed process that helps authors turn their ideas into published books. He also reveals the secret to selling a million copies and discusses the drawbacks of relying on AI for writing.

Beyond Scribe, Eric talks about his book The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, the evolution of audiobooks, and his venture fund, Rolling Fun. Tune in for amazing insights!

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[00:49] The Lost episode

[05:19] Scribe Collapse & Recovery

[08:33] Becoming Scribe’s CEO

[16:51] Book writing process

[27:46] Selling a Million Copies

[29:44] AI Tools

[32:42] The Almanack of Naval Ravikant

[35:14] Audiobooks

[44:28] Venture fund

• Website: https://www.rolling.fun/

[51:28] Connect with Eric

• Website: https://www.ejorgenson.com/

• Podcast: https://www.ejorgenson.com/podcast

Key Takeaways:

• “Being particular with your customers is a massive advantage.” ~Eric Jorgenson [15:45]

• “Almost every writer has experienced writer’s block, but no human being has ever experienced talker’s block.” ~Eric Jorgenson [17:46]

• If you want to sell a million copies of a book, don’t try to sell a million copies in a category that has never sold a million. Instead, go to a category where a million copies are sold once every few years when there is a hit. ~Eric Jorgenson [27:46]

• “You aren't advertising to a standing army; you are advertising to a moving parade." ~David Ogilvy [28:02]

• AI writing tools deny writers the full experience of writing. ~Eric Jorgenson [30:34]

• There is wisdom in the things you hear over and over again. ~Eric Jorgenson [34:20]

• Most people are now audiobook consumers. ~Eric Jorgenson [36:22]

• The best thing a human being can do is help another human being know more. ~Eric Jorgenson [43:18]

• The acquisition of wisdom is a moral duty. ~Eric Jorgenson [43:22]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Tucker Max

2. Timothy Ferriss

3. David Ogilvy

4. Elon Musk

5. Peter Thiel

6. The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: https://bit.ly/4pEb85P

7. Scribe Collapse & Recovery: https://www.tuckermax.com/the-scribe-media-collapse-and-recovery/

Keep In Touch with Eric Jorgenson:

Website (Company): https://scribemedia.com/

Website (Personal): https://www.ejorgenson.com/

Podcast: https://www.ejorgenson.com/podcast

X: https://x.com/ericjorgenson

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Freestyle Rap Track Inspired By my top takeaways from The Bookthinkers Live 2025.

https://www.bookthinkers.com/

Freestyle Rap written using my custom Rap Lyric Songwriter GPT: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-68117a0e4f648191b790ed5006b62ac9-rap-lyric-songwriter

+ https://suno.com/

I HOPE TO SEE YOU IN 2026 AND BEYOND!

-----

Follow Balbert…

Facebook www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert

Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

Real Business Connections is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Lyrics:

Title: "Voices from the Page"

By Ben Albert, after attending Book Thinkers Live in Boston, MA

[Intro – Spoken Flow]

Ben Albert here.

I attended Book Thinkers Live in Boston, Massachusetts.

And here are my top takeaways…

[Verse 1]

I heard someone say, "I was addicted to achievement,"

Checked all the boxes, but lacked real agreement.

They said, “I had success and I still felt empty,”

A life full of gold but the soul felt gently —

Tugged by a voice that whispered, you’re made for more,

Purpose ain’t a goal, it’s a deeper core.

A breakdown led to a breakthrough scene,

Pain cracked open what ambition screened.

So many folks in that room said the same,

“I realized I was chasing someone else’s name.”

[Hook – Chant Style]

Show up every day, even when it hurts,

Write through resistance, dig through the dirt.

Clarity don’t come in the comfort zone,

Truth lives loud when you’re all alone.

Serve before scale, story before sell,

If it don’t scare you, it might not compel.

The story you’re scared to tell’s the one,

That heals the most once the page is done.

[Verse 2]

They said “The book ain’t the biz — it’s just the start,”

But without the model, your vision falls apart.

“You don’t need a budget, you need a backbone,”

Build that brand from the pain you own.

Stop chasin’ viral, go build a lane,

Consistency hits harder than a trending name.

They said: “I used to chase the applause,

Now I chase the impact, the mission, the cause.”

Marketing ain’t magic — it’s a mirror you hold,

Reflect who you are, not what gets sold.

“Confidence is currency” — that hit deep,

Some said they never felt enough to leap.

[Bridge – Spoken Build]

Steven Pressfield was in the air, I swear.

Everybody talked about the war we wear.

Resistance, fear, and showing up scared —

But doing it anyway — that’s how legends are prepared.

The pros show up, the rest delay,

Discipline ain’t sexy, but it pays each day.

Your muse don’t visit if you don’t do the work,

You fight through doubt — that’s how breakthroughs lurk.

[Verse 3]

I heard: if you want clarity, speak more plain,

Cut through fluff, stop playing the game.

Don’t write for approval or clicks or likes,

Write like your life’s on the line each night.

The real flex? Serving with precision,

Helping one soul — that’s real vision.

Books don't blow up from fancy release,

They grow from work that don’t ever cease.

[Verse 4]

This is for the reader, the one who's stuck,

Who opens your book and finds their luck.

They see your wounds and feel less alone,

That’s the magic — that’s the tone.

It’s not about being clever or known,

It’s about being human in every zone.

If one life shifts from your shared page,

Then you just set the world ablaze.

[Final Hook – Anthemic Chant]

Write what hurts, not what trends,

Your words got power, let the silence end.

From breakdowns to breakthroughs, pain to page,

This is your story — not a brand, it’s a stage.

You don’t need permission, list, or praise,

Just daily choices that compound days.

Book was the start, but the legacy's flame,

Is lit by the lines that outlive your name.

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #27 with Alex Sanfilippo.

Many people struggle with podcasting, whether it is finding the right guests, conducting good interviews, or mastering the skills of hosting and guesting. The truth is, podcast success isn’t about luck. It takes strategy, preparation, and purpose. So what are the secrets behind successful podcasting?

Discover the secrets in this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” episode from the GrowGetters Only community featuring Alex Sanfilippo, a podcaster and founder of PodMatch.com.

In the episode, Alex shares the inspiration behind starting PodMatch, the innovative podcast booking service that automatically connects ideal hosts and guests for interviews. He also explores what makes a great interview and offers practical tips for balancing podcast guesting with your personal & professional life.

In addition, Alex discusses the mistakes he made while building PodMatch, the most common mistakes people make in their profiles, and the best pre-episode onboarding practices for hosts.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Introduction

[01:11] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com

[01:34] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/

[02:57] PodMatch

[11:27] Good Interviews

[15:57] Podcast guesting

[19:57] Host vs.Guest

[24:54] Business Mistake

[27:39] PodMatch: https://podmatch.com/free

[38:12] Profile Mistakes

[43:27] Pre-Episode Onboarding

[47:31] Worst Interviews

[50:06] Connect with Alex

• Website: https://podmatch.com/free

Key Takeaways:  

• The key to a successful podcast interview is thorough research and preparation to maximize synergy and connection. ~Alex Sanfilippo [12:24]

• You become a better podcast host when you start being a podcast guest. ~Alex Sanfilippo [20:28]

• Unspecific goals yield unspecific results. ~Alex Sanfilippo [30:21]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Seth Godin

2. 21(movie): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0478087/

Keep In Touch with Alex Sanfilippo:

Personal Website: https://alexsanfilippo.com/

PodMatch Website: https://podmatch.com/

PodPros Website: https://podpros.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsanfilippo/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajsanfilippo/

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #136 with Ryan Koral.

If your business isn’t leveraging video, you’re overlooking one of the biggest drivers of growth. Strategic video content has the power to captivate your audience, build trust, and drive real business results.

In this episode, Ben Albert sits down with Ryan Koral, a filmmaker turned entrepreneur, podcast host, and coach who empowers creatives and business leaders to build thriving businesses. Ryan is also the Founder of Tell Studios, a creative agency dedicated to helping brands share their unique story through video that engages, inspires, and converts.

Ryan shares his journey into filmmaking and highlights some of his most memorable projects, including a favorite that involved a kid organizing a massive underground party. He also reflects on how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted his business and why he chose to give it another chance after nearly walking away.

In addition, Ryan dives into balancing creativity with business strategy and provides actionable advice for small businesses and personal brands beginning their video journey.

P.S - You can listen to Ben on Ryan’s podcast, “Grow Your Video Business” here: https://www.studiosherpas.com/podcasts/grow-your-video-business-3/episodes/2149081538

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[02:49] Journey into Filmmaking

[11:45] Favourite projects

[16:01] Tell Studios: https://www.tellstudios.com/

[17:57] COVID’s Impact on Tell Studios

[20:30] Giving business another chance

[25:09] Creativity & Business Strategy

[33:12] Getting started with video

[44:56] Connect with Ryan Koral

• Website: https://ryankoral.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankoral/

[45:57] Ben Albert on Grow Your Video Business Podcast

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFI6zWoXrZQ

[46:11] Integration assignment

Key Takeaways:  

• Your passion is what makes you come alive. ~Ryan Koral [15:12]

• If you truly believe in how you help people, you owe it to your ideal clients to show up, because if you don’t, your competition will. ~Ryan Koral [33:22]

• “Your mission is more important than your mug.” ~Ryan Koral [34:10]

• You can’t improve your next video if you don’t shoot the first one. ~Ryan Koral [47:06]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. MrBeast

Keep In Touch with Ryan Koral:

Website: https://ryankoral.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankoral/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryankoral/

YouTube/Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@GrowYourVideoBusiness/videos

• Watch the video project he did with the kids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FxOyD7ZRVA&t=19s

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #135 with Megan Robinson.

In this special episode, Megan Robinson and Ben break down the 4 types of connection — Fun, Manipulative, Deep, and Power. You're getting a rare, behind-the-scenes brainstorm with two minds riffing in real time. We don’t just talk about connection, we build it live — sharing examples, missteps, and frameworks that shift how you see relationships, influence, and leadership.

Megan is the founder of E-Leader Experience, where she’s making leadership accessible to everyone, regardless of title or experience. We dig into why so many people get stuck in shallow or manipulative zones, and how to move into real connection — even when it’s uncomfortable.

If you’re tired of surface-level relationships and want to lead with authenticity, this one’s for you.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer

[02:17] E-Leader Experience

https://www.eleaderexperience.com/

[02:48] We are all leaders

[03:39] Building up leadership

[04:23] Building connections and relationships

[08:05] Real versus deep

[11:51] The fun zone

[14:29] Empty zone

[17:07] Manipulative connections in corporate

[20:45] Deep and manipulative zone

[23:39] Danger zone

[29:57] Utilizing influence

[33:44] Power zone

[35:10] Servant leadership

[36:09] Coaching-style leadership

[38:43] Qualities of a great leader

[41:50] E-Leader Experience

[43:41] Seeking leadership support

[48:00] What’s Megan working on?

Key Takeaways:  

• "Real doesn't necessarily mean that it has to be deep." ~Megan Robinson [07:27]

• The good or bad of manipulation doesn't necessarily matter if the behavior is manipulative. ~Megan Robinson [10:15]

• If a leader can utilize coercive control, people do things that they never would have done on their own. ~Ben Albert [24:20]

• "If you feel that you’ve finished developing, it's most likely something to reflect on a little bit." ~Megan Robinson [45:26]

• Our mission is making leadership accessible for everyone, regardless of title, position, or experience. ~Megan Robinson [45:51]

• "Title doesn't make you a leader." ~Megan Robinson [46:01]

• "Leadership is influence." ~John Maxwell [46:18]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Article: The Connection Imperative

Keep In Touch with Megan Robinson:

Website: https://www.eleaderexperience.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tritcak/ 

Podcast: https://www.eleaderexperience.com/podcast 

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #134 with Naida Allen.

Many of us spend our lives chasing things that don’t truly bring joy or fulfillment. In this episode, Naida Allen challenges us to pause and reflect: What do we really want from life, and what will genuinely make us feel fulfilled? By living in alignment with what makes you happy, you open the door to deeper fulfillment, greater longevity, and a healthier way of living.

Naida shares her journey of discovering and embracing her uniqueness, showing how owning who you are can become a powerful foundation for success. Moreover, she explores the concept of living in alignment and explains how to recognize when your choices, actions, and goals are truly in sync with who you are.

Gratitude, resilience, and peer support are also key themes in the episode. Naida highlights how gratitude keeps you centered and free from the trap of comparison, which she calls the greatest enemy of every entrepreneur and dreamer. She also emphasizes the importance of resilience and having a supportive community to help you navigate the challenges and stay on course toward your goals.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Trailer 

[00:55] Love for Metal & Rock

[02:09] Embracing her uniqueness

[08:25] Living life in alignment

[16:18] The power of gratitude

[22:48] Resilience & peer support

[35:07] Current Focus

[37:05] Connect with Naida

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naida-allen/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewriteway.uk/

Key Takeaways:

• “There is no right or wrong. You just have to figure out what’s right for you.” ~Naida Allen [07:22]

• The comparison game is one you can never win. It’s the greatest enemy of every entrepreneur, every idea you want to pursue, and every dream you want to achieve. ~Naida Allen [11:58]

• We compare ourselves to others because we’re not focused on where we are now. Instead, we’re always fixated on where we need to go. ~Naida Allen [14:38]

• “It takes a village to grow a business.” ~Naida Allen [24:10]

• “You are good enough now. You’re only getting better.” ~Ben Albert [40:01]

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Leila Hormozi

2. Concrete Jungle by Bad Omens: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xHEJZs7as

Keep In Touch with Naida Allen:

Website: https://thewriteway.my.canva.site/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naida-allen/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewriteway.uk/

Book a discovery call: https://calendly.com/the-write-way/disco-call

—

Follow Balbert…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/

Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

 –

LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Follow Balbert…

Facebook www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnections

Instagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert

Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/

–

Real Business Connections is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/