Explore every episode of the podcast Extraordinary America

What if 95% of your financial decisions are made on autopilot—shaped by neural pathways formed before you were seven years old? 

In this eye-opening episode of Extraordinary America, we sit down with Hugh Massie, Executive Chairman and Founder of DNA Behavior International, who reveals the hidden forces behind our money decisions and how understanding your "hardwired behavior" can transform your financial future.

Hugh shares his remarkable journey from an Australian chartered accountant to pioneering behavioral finance. Discover why traditional financial literacy isn't enough, how immigrant identity drives adaptability, and why knowing your "System 1 vs. System 2" behavior patterns is the key to making better decisions under pressure.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply want to make better life decisions, this conversation will change how you think about your own behavior patterns and financial future.

🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Why 85% of your decision-making patterns are formed by age 7

✅ The difference between System 1 (instinctive) and System 2 (conscious) behavior

✅ How extreme risk-takers can learn strategic caution through self-awareness

✅ The relationship between purpose, identity, and entrepreneurial resilience

✅ Hugh's ambitious goal: reaching 1 billion people with AI-driven behavioral insights by 2030

✅ How multicultural perspectives and meditation shape identity evolution

✅ The future of BeFi (Behavioral Finance) technology and its impact on business

Chapters:

(01:30) Who is Hugh Massie?

(07:58) Where does people's decision-making come from

(21:01) The number one trait for people building a serious business is resilience

(30:54) A lot of our purpose comes from our identity and who we are

(35:50) Immigrant identities tend to have more adaptability and resilience

(43:23) DNA behavior International helps people become financially self-empowered

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Hugh Massie bio:

As a titan hundred CEO and widely recognized behavioral solutions architect, Hugh addresses every opportunity and challenge from the proven perspective that behavior makes money. With his unique analogical approach, Hugh helps growth-minded leaders create an exponential future by building category-king people-centric businesses and, in the process, enhancing financial decision-making culture and performance. 

Applying the pioneering behavioral finance research Hugh has undertaken since 2001, he aims to commercialize the DNA behavior AI-driven BSIDE tech platform so that, by 2030, it informs over 1 billion people annually on how to enhance decision-making and relationships, increasing life, financial, and business longevity by 30 or more years.

 Hugh partners with clients to create an exponential future by developing trailblazing financial behavior apps that build the new befi economy, impacting all key areas of life, finance, and business. 

Connect with Hugh

Website: https://dnabehavior.com 

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

• Website: http://www.dnabehavior.com and www.boyswithoutfathers.org

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hugh.massie

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/e4jeRdjI_Ak

What if 95% of your financial decisions are made on autopilot—shaped by neural pathways formed before you were seven years old? 

In this eye-opening episode of Extraordinary America, we sit down with Hugh Massie, Executive Chairman and Founder of DNA Behavior International, who reveals the hidden forces behind our money decisions and how understanding your "hardwired behavior" can transform your financial future.

Hugh shares his remarkable journey from an Australian chartered accountant to pioneering behavioral finance. Discover why traditional financial literacy isn't enough, how immigrant identity drives adaptability, and why knowing your "System 1 vs. System 2" behavior patterns is the key to making better decisions under pressure.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply want to make better life decisions, this conversation will change how you think about your own behavior patterns and financial future.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, October 22nd   

Are you making all your financial decisions alone? Feeling overwhelmed by inflation, debt, and everyday money struggles? You're not alone—and this conversation will change how you think about your financial future.

In this episode of Extraordinary America, host Cosmos sits down with Lisa Clements, a former Meta senior director, financial advisor, and founder of Clear Springs Wealth. Lisa shares her journey from a 20+ year corporate career at Meta, Accenture, and Bark to launching her own wealth management firm dedicated to empowering single professional women.

We discuss practical strategies for overcoming financial overwhelm, the importance of financial education, and how to pursue side hustles while maintaining a stable income. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the financial landscape and building a fulfilling life!

🎯 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

✅ The unique financial challenges single women face (and why planning alone is so difficult)

✅ How to cope with inflation and everyday money struggles in today's economy

✅ Practical strategies to increase your income: job switching, salary negotiation, and smart sacrifices

✅ How to design a side hustle that actually works (without overwhelming your life)

✅ Why women live longer but often have less saved for retirement

✅ The real conversation about the American Dream and why financial education matters more than ever

✅ When to leave a comfortable corporate job and how to manage the risk

✅ Clear Springs Wealth's approach to financial planning without jargon, judgment, or sky-high fees

Chapters:

(01:30) Financial advisor and wealth manager for single professional women

(04:52) Leaving corporate life to start Clear Springs Wealth, focusing on single women

(12:44) When you need a side hustle

(17:40) A lot of people in corporate careers feel empty

(20:06) Knowing your why 

(24:29) The American dream 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Lisa Clements bio:

Lisa Clements is the founder of Clear Springs Wealth, where she is committed to helping individuals navigate their financial lives with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Combining sophisticated financial expertise with genuine empathy, Lisa serves as the financial partner many people wish they had found sooner.

Drawing on both professional knowledge and personal experience, Lisa understands that financial decisions are about more than numbers—they're about people, goals, families, and the future. She works closely with her clients as a trusted thinking partner, helping them transform financial uncertainty into informed, confident decision-making.

Lisa believes that true financial planning is built on partnership. She takes the time to make complex financial concepts understandable and accessible, empowering clients to build wealth while maintaining confidence in their choices. Her approach respects each client's independence while providing the guidance and support needed to navigate important life and financial transitions.

Through Clear Springs Wealth, Lisa is dedicated to ensuring that no one has to face major financial decisions alone. She also provides ongoing financial insights and market updates, serving as a trusted source of information and guidance in an ever-changing financial landscape.

At the heart of Lisa's work is a simple commitment: helping people move forward with confidence, knowing they have an experienced advocate and trusted advisor in their corner.

Connect with Lisa

Website: clearspringswealth.com

Linktr.ee

Email: lisa@clearspringswealth.com

Instagram: @ClearSpringsWealth

Facebook: @ClearSpringsWealth

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/sgpWrxLWbRo

Are you making all your financial decisions alone? Feeling overwhelmed by inflation, debt, and everyday money struggles? You're not alone—and this conversation will change how you think about your financial future.

In this episode of Extraordinary America, host Cosmos sits down with Lisa Clements, a former Meta senior director, financial advisor, and founder of Clear Springs Wealth. Lisa shares her journey from a 20+ year corporate career at Meta, Accenture, and Bark to launching her own wealth management firm dedicated to empowering single professional women.

We discuss practical strategies for overcoming financial overwhelm, the importance of financial education, and how to pursue side hustles while maintaining a stable income. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the financial landscape and building a fulfilling life!

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, October 15th  

Think you're making rational buying decisions? Think again. In this eye-opening conversation, marketing veteran and behavioral science expert Gee Ranasinha reveals why 95% of marketing fails—and it's not because of bad products or services.

Gee has spent 18+ years helping over 400 businesses in 20+ countries crack the code on what drives sales. As CEO of Kexino and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, he's teaching MBA students (and now you) the uncomfortable truth: your customers aren't buying based on logic, features, or price comparisons. They're buying based on unconscious biases, emotional triggers, and mental shortcuts they don't even realize they're using.

Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur struggling to move the revenue needle, this episode will fundamentally shift how you think about selling.

🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

→ Why "buy one get one free" outperforms "50% off" (even though they're mathematically identical)

→ The fatal flaw in modern marketing: confusing activity with results

→ How behavioral science acts as a "cheat code" for marketing effectiveness

→ Why marketing agencies avoid accountability—and what to do about it

→ The 95/5 rule that changes everything about how you approach brand building

→ Why treating marketing like manufacturing is killing your growth

→ The creativity crisis: how over-reliance on tech is making marketing worse

Chapters:

(00:57) Helping startups and small businesses with marketing

(07:04) Behavioral science affects marketing

(14:48) Neuro-linguistic programming 

(22:30) Marketing excludes irrational or emotional decision-making

(27:51) Human nature and people's behaviors towards successful marketing

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Gee Ranasinha bio:

Born and raised in London, UK, Gee is a seasoned communications and content professional with a career spanning media production, digital imaging innovation, print and publishing technologies, and international marketing leadership.

Gee began his career by founding and running a successful media production company specializing in advertising photography and TV commercials. As professional digital photography emerged, he became deeply involved in high-end image-capture systems, working with pioneering brands such as Sinar, Leaf, PhaseOne, and Dicomed. He later transitioned into the print and publishing industries, where he served for seven years as Worldwide Director of Marketing for a German software company. In this global role, he supported a diverse client base, including commercial printers, publishers, corporate marketing departments, and government organizations, as well as major international brands such as Marvel, IKEA, Nestlé, and WPP.

For the past 18 years, Gee has led KEXINO, a dynamic, distributed team of 19 talented professionals spanning 9 countries. Under his direction, the team delivers specialized expertise in communication, content strategy, and marketing solutions.

Connect with Gee

📫 CONNECT WITH Gee Ranasinha:

Website: https://kexino.com 

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

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranasinha/overlay/contact-info

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/GgWVVIvBwhA

Think you're making rational buying decisions? Think again. In this eye-opening conversation, marketing veteran and behavioral science expert Gee Ranasinha reveals why 95% of marketing fails—and it's not because of bad products or services.

Gee has spent 18+ years helping over 400 businesses in 20+ countries crack the code on what drives sales. As CEO of Kexino and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, he's teaching MBA students (and now you) the uncomfortable truth: your customers aren't buying based on logic, features, or price comparisons. They're buying based on unconscious biases, emotional triggers, and mental shortcuts they don't even realize they're using.

Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur struggling to move the revenue needle, this episode will fundamentally shift how you think about selling.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, October 8th  

What if everything you were taught about money, debt, and retirement is wrong?

Rebecca Irey lost her family farm in the 1980s, nearly lost her husband to a health crisis, and discovered that the traditional financial advice was keeping most Americans broke. Now, as the CEO of Blue Sky Financial, she's helping families break free from broken systems and build real generational wealth.

In this powerful conversation, Rebecca shares:

✅ Why the Dave Ramsey approach fails most families

✅ How infinite banking and life insurance can replace traditional retirement

✅ The truth about "good debt" vs "bad debt" (and how the wealthy use leverage)

✅ Why paying off your mortgage early might be costing you millions

✅ How to escape the "keeping up with the Joneses" trap

✅ The first steps to take if you're drowning in debt

✅ Social Security optimization strategies they don't teach you

✅ How to build tax-free retirement income streams

Rebecca's story is a masterclass in resilience—from losing her family's 3,000-acre ranch to navigating 18 months while her husband fought for his life in the hospital. Her straight-talk approach cuts through the financial noise and gives you actionable strategies to change your family's financial trajectory.

Whether you're buried in debt, confused about retirement planning, or just tired of living paycheck to paycheck, this episode will shift how you think about money forever.

Chapters:

(04:14) Financial services helped Rebecca overcome adversity 

(10:18) How to leverage your money and then utilize other people's money

(17:57) How do wealthy people leverage debt to create wealth

(23:57) Stagnant wages and inflation 

(28:00) debt snowball action. 

(32:29) What does the American dream mean to you

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Rebecca Irey bio:

Rebecca is the heart behind Blue Skye. With over 25 years of experience, she’s helped thousands of families and entrepreneurs move from dependence to true financial independence. Her specialty is tax-free retirement and legacy wealth. Rebecca’s leadership is grounded in values, education, and a belief that everyone deserves a personalized path to prosperity.

Connect with Rebecca

Company: https://blueskyefinancial.com 

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

Connect with Extraordinary America:

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/uNWUjdad_Y4

What if everything you were taught about money, debt, and retirement is wrong?

Rebecca Irey lost her family farm in the 1980s, nearly lost her husband to a health crisis, and discovered that the traditional financial advice was keeping most Americans broke. Now, as the CEO of Blue Sky Financial, she's helping families break free from broken systems and build real generational wealth.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, October 2nd 

In this episode of Extravagant Americans, I sit down with Mike Handa, a former multi-business owner turned RevOps and CRM consultant who's spent 17+ years helping growing companies build scalable systems. After selling his email deliverability platform in 2020, Mike now focuses exclusively on helping B2B founders bring structure to the chaos of growth.

Mike shares raw insights from his journey — including losing his first startup in the 2008 financial crisis and the lessons that led to his successful exit years later. If you're a founder struggling with messy operations, unclear processes, or disconnected tools, this conversation is packed with actionable advice.

🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Why most product-led founders are making a critical mistake (hint: it's about revenue)

✅ The #1 trap early-stage entrepreneurs fall into when building their business

✅ How to think about scalability from day one without overcomplicating things

✅ The invisible costs killing your profitability (and how to fix them)

✅ Why AI can't replace human connection in sales and coaching

✅ What RevOps actually is and why every growing company needs it

✅ The power of relationships and networking over automation

✅ Real talk about MVPs, validation, and when to delegate

Chapters:

(03:42) RevOps is optimizing your internal processes for profitability

(14:38) One of the biggest mistakes early-stage founders make 

(16:52) Delegation is very important because you cannot do everything alone

(22:37) Building meaningful relationships, networking, and improving your communication skills 

(25:51) Don't outsource your sales and marketing to AI because it's going to fail

(36:30) CRM is very important for sales and marketing today

(39:42) The communication strategy 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Mike Handa bio:

Mike Handa is a former multi-business owner turned RevOps and CRM Consultant, helping growing companies build processes and implement scalable systems.

With over 17 years of experience in sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship, Mike has built and sold multiple businesses and worked with international agencies, including WPP, to develop and launch scalable growth systems.

After years of seeing how disorganized data, unclear processes, and disconnected tools slowed Companies down, Mike shifted his focus to helping B2B leaders bring structure to the chaos of growth.

He is a McKinsey Forward-certified consultant and an ICF-accredited coach who works with sales and marketing teams to create, optimize, and standardize the lean process and implement systems that reduce manual labor while making growth measurable and predictable.

He provides deep insights into aligning finance, sales, and marketing, identifying the most important KPIs and implementing systems that help to engage leads from the first point of contact to conversion while having clear data and pipeline visibility, supported by automated

analytics and reporting.

Mike’s approach blends real-world business experience with a coaching-style curiosity for how People and systems work together. He’s known for his clear, no-fluff explanations of complex processes and his ability to turn messy operations into organized, scalable systems.

Connect with Mike:

https://www.facebook.com/mikehanda10x

https://www.instagram.com/mikehanda

https://x.com/MikeHanda

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikehanda 

Website: https://enterfor.eu 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/O-PC0-M9Kp0

In this episode of Extravagant Americans, I sit down with Mike Handa, a former multi-business owner turned RevOps and CRM consultant who's spent 17+ years helping growing companies build scalable systems. After selling his email deliverability platform in 2020, Mike now focuses exclusively on helping B2B founders bring structure to the chaos of growth.

Mike shares raw insights from his journey — including losing his first startup in the 2008 financial crisis and the lessons that led to his successful exit years later. If you're a founder struggling with messy operations, unclear processes, or disconnected tools, this conversation is packed with actionable advice.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, September 24th 

The Two-Party System is BROKEN – Here's What We Can Do About It

What happens when an Iranian immigrant loses everything in the Palisades Fire and discovers just how corrupt our political system really is? Reza Safaranajad ran for Governor of California as an independent candidate and got a front-row seat to the rigged game that keeps everyday Americans locked out of power.

In this eye-opening conversation, Reza pulls back the curtain on what it's really like to challenge the political establishment without billions in corporate backing. From being excluded from debates to discovering corruption that goes deeper than most people imagine, his story is a wake-up call for every American who feels politically homeless in today's landscape.

🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Why the Palisades Fire sparked a political awakening

• The impossible challenges facing independent candidates

• How billionaires and Wall Street control both major parties

• Why 99.99% of voters never hear about independent candidates

• The urgent need for grassroots independent movements

• Whether good people can actually succeed in corrupt politics

• Lessons from Iran: What happens when citizens give up

• The death of the American Dream and how to revive it

• Reza's journey from immigrant to gubernatorial candidate

Chapters:

(01:30) Reza Safarnejad was a former independent candidate for California governor

(02:45) The two-party system is essentially flawed

(09:58) Reza Safarnejad ran for California governor as an independent

(19:55) There's definitely a generational divide in California politics right now

(27:59) The national debt now stands at 40 trillion dollars

(36:37) Money has corrupted our political system, and something has to be done

(43:59) Reza authored " The Veiled Souls about Iran's revolution and Iraq War

(46:11) Reza Amanpour has a message for independents watching this podcast

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Reza Safaranajad bio:

Author of "The Veiled Soul" | Former Independent Candidate for Governor of California | 20+ years in leadership roles with federal, state, and local government agencies | Pacific Palisades resident and fire survivor

Connect with Reza:

https://reza4california.com

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/flvKTOwdhv4

The Two-Party System is BROKEN – Here's What We Can Do About It

What happens when an Iranian immigrant loses everything in the Palisades Fire and discovers just how corrupt our political system really is? Reza Safaranajad ran for Governor of California as an independent candidate and got a front-row seat to the rigged game that keeps everyday Americans locked out of power.

In this eye-opening conversation, Reza pulls back the curtain on what it's really like to challenge the political establishment without billions in corporate backing. From being excluded from debates to discovering corruption that goes deeper than most people imagine, his story is a wake-up call for every American who feels politically homeless in today's landscape.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, September 10th 

What happens when your boss rejects your million-dollar idea? You start your own company. 

Mike Konrad entered the electronics manufacturing industry in 1985 with dreams of startup riches. The reality? Far different. But after his employer dismissed a groundbreaking product concept, Mike made a decision that would change his life forever—he started Aquis Technologies in his garage.

In this raw and inspiring conversation, Mike shares the untold story of entrepreneurship: the lawsuit that nearly bankrupted him before he even started, the crushing reality of bootstrapping, and the pivotal moment when a single word from his boss launched a 30+ year business journey.

This isn't your typical success story. Mike pulls back the curtain on every mistake, near-miss, and hard-won lesson that transformed him from a technically minded engineer into a strategic business leader.

🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Why technical expertise alone isn't enough to run a business

✅ The critical difference between passion for a product and business acumen

✅ How education-based marketing attracts better customers

✅ Why relationship-based business beats transactional thinking

✅ The abundance mindset that changes everything

✅ How to survive lawsuits, near-bankruptcy, and cash flow crises

✅ The power of mentorship and strategic hiring at the right time

Chapters:

(01:22) Unrealistic expectations 

(19:54) AD money vs education

(22:39) Conscious marketing

(35:28) Stop making fear-based decisions. Make the right decisions; make good decisions.

(40:00) Only 20% of all business startups ultimately survive, according to government statistics.

(46:42) Making mistakes. 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Mike Konrad bio:

Mike is the founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies, a company he launched in 1992. With more than three decades of entrepreneurial experience, Mike is a self-described “reluctant entrepreneur” who entered business not by choice, but by necessity—after his employer declined to develop a product he had designed. Armed with strong technical skills but lacking formal business training, he built the company through trial and error, persistence, and continuous transformation.

He is the author of The Reluctant Entrepreneur: Anatomy of a Business Start-Up – From Uncertainty to Unstoppable, a candid account of his journey that details the missteps, near-failures, and hard-won lessons that turned an uncertain start-up into a sustainable business. Mike regularly speaks at major universities and business organizations, sharing practical, real-world strategies with the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.

In addition to his writing and speaking, Mike hosts two podcasts: The Reluctant Entrepreneur Podcast, where he interviews business owners about their own startup and growth journeys, and The Reliability Matters Podcast, which focuses on technical excellence and best practices in the electronics industry. These platforms have allowed him to connect with diverse audiences, exchange insights, and inspire both aspiring and established professionals.

Connect with Mike:

Email: mike@reluctantentrepreneurpodcast.com

Website: https://www.reluctantentrepreneurpodcast.com 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/mT4gcpzgWrM

What happens when your boss rejects your million-dollar idea? You start your own company. 

Mike Konrad entered the electronics manufacturing industry in 1985 with dreams of startup riches. The reality? Far different. But after his employer dismissed a groundbreaking product concept, Mike made a decision that would change his life forever—he started Aquis Technologies in his garage.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, September 10th 

What happens when you lose everything—your savings, investments, and nearly your life? Gary Harper turned his darkest moments into a mission to help thousands of entrepreneurs succeed.

In this powerful episode of Extraordinary Americans, Gary shares his incredible journey from starting at $7.15/hour to becoming a Fortune 500 executive, only to lose it all in the 2008 crash. But the real test came in 2011 when Lyme disease nearly took his life. Discover how he fought back, rebuilt his wealth through real estate (300+ deals in one year!), and created the RISE Business Framework that's now helping entrepreneurs worldwide.

🔥 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ How to bounce back from financial devastation and health crises

✅ The power of facing challenges head-on instead of avoiding them

✅ Why tough times are meant to refine you, not destroy you

✅ The RISE Business Framework: Resources, Inspiration, Systems, Engagement

✅ Strategies for scaling your business while maintaining work/life balance

✅ From corporate executive to helping 5,000+ businesses globally

✅ Real estate investing lessons from someone who's seen it all

Chapters:

(06:03) Gary Johnson went through the 2008 crash and then battled Lyme disease.

(12:56) When you start a business, it takes obsession to build success

(18:01) The purpose of a business should also be deeply emotional 

(22:17) sustainability and how to grow the company

(24:07) The only way to let go is to build trust

(26:34) Without the right leadership and the right work culture, companies fall apart.

(31:54) If you want a better team, become a better leader. 

(37:15) Gary Harper wrote the RISE Business Framework. 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Gary Harper bio:

Experienced Owner with a demonstrated history of working in the consulting and management industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Negotiation, Budgeting, Microsoft Word, and Sales. Strong entrepreneurship professional.

Gary Harper is the CEO of Sharper Business Solutions. Gary, an author of 3 books, spent 13 years as an executive in a Fortune 500 company where he handled the process of evaluating companies’ operational expenses and helped them to reach new levels of efficiency.

He began investing in real estate in 2004 and has taken his expertise in business systems and process management to develop a program to help over 600 real estate investors position themselves to scale their business to new levels.

Gary is a Six Sigma Expert and is also a certified partner of Predictive Index. While owning 10 businesses, Gary has also successfully exited three companies.

Connect with Gary:

https://sharperprocess.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-harper-37148967

https://www.instagram.com/official_garyharper

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/tAH-3Tj3qcY

What happens when you lose everything—your savings, investments, and nearly your life? Gary Harper turned his darkest moments into a mission to help thousands of entrepreneurs succeed.

In this powerful episode of Extraordinary Americans, Gary shares his incredible journey from starting at $7.15/hour to becoming a Fortune 500 executive, only to lose it all in the 2008 crash. But the real test came in 2011 when Lyme disease nearly took his life. Discover how he fought back, rebuilt his wealth through real estate (300+ deals in one year!), and created the RISE Business Framework that's now helping entrepreneurs worldwide.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, September 3rd  

What does it take to turn job loss into a thriving business while raising four kids as a single parent? In this powerful episode, Megan Schwandt, CEO and Founder of Sidekick Accounting Services, shares her incredible journey from accidental entrepreneur to certified Profit First Professional, helping thousands of small business owners succeed.

Megan breaks down the harsh reality that 8 out of 10 small businesses fail—and reveals exactly what separates the winners from the losers. With over two decades in the accounting industry, she's seen every red flag and triumph, and she's here to share the insights that could save your business.

🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Why work-life balance is a myth (and what to focus on instead)

✅ The mindset shift from employee to business owner

✅ How to build a sustainable business that provides real choices

✅ Critical financial red flags every entrepreneur must know

✅ The Profit First methodology explained

✅ Managing business growth while handling personal challenges

✅ Essential systems and processes for scaling

✅ Real advice for single parents considering entrepreneurship

Whether you're thinking about starting a business, struggling with your current venture, or looking to scale to the next level, Megan's hard-won wisdom will give you the roadmap you need.

Chapters:

(07:42) Work-life balance is a priority based

(08:37) The biggest struggle faced in becoming a business owner

(10:45) The biggest lesson learned regarding business and business ownership

(19:22) advice for people transitioning from jobs to business

(27:19) Creating systems and processes allows you to be outside of your business

(30:30) What does the American dream 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Megan Schwan bio:

Megan Schwan is the CEO and Founder of Sidekick Accounting Services. As a single Mom to 4 beautiful children, she understands the necessity and benefits of running a profitable, successful company. Most businesses provide for families, both the owners and the employees. Her mission and passion are to change the statistic that 8 out of 10 small businesses fail and to empower other "regular" people to create the business of their dreams.

Megan is also a speaker, coach, and published author. She pours into the small business communities, providing education and support to starting and growing businesses. As your Accounting & Tax Sidekick, she and her team are here to help you understand, use, and grow!

When she is not working to change the world of small business, she enjoys exploring new places and experiences with her kids!

🤝 CONNECT WITH MEGAN SCHWANDT:

Website: https://www.sidekick-accounting.com 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XAfHWMXfKAI

What does it take to turn job loss into a thriving business while raising four kids as a single parent? In this powerful episode, Megan Schwandt, CEO and Founder of Sidekick Accounting Services, shares her incredible journey from accidental entrepreneur to certified Profit First Professional, helping thousands of small business owners succeed.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, August 27th 

🎯 From Landscaping to Leading Marketing Expert | Andrew Newand on Building Sustainable Growth in Healthcare

What if the key to explosive business growth isn't sexy Facebook ads or viral TikToks, but something most people completely overlook?

In this episode of Extraordinary Americans, we sit down with Andrew Newand, founder of Functional Medicine Marketing and author of "Digital Marketing and SEO for Functional Medicine Practices." Andrew shares his remarkable journey from struggling landscaper to marketing expert who's helped healthcare practices nationwide achieve astronomical growth.

Andrew reveals why most healthcare marketing fails, the truth about "30 patients in 30 seconds" claims, and why Google SEO is still the most powerful (yet underutilized) tool for building trust with potential patients. If you're a business owner, healthcare provider, or anyone looking to build sustainable growth, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

🔥 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Why "build it and they will come" doesn't work (and what does)

✅ The critical difference between quick wins and sustainable marketing

✅ How personal health struggles can transform your business direction

✅ Why SEO beats Facebook funnels for high-ticket healthcare services

✅ Understanding the user journey in building patient trust

✅ Marketing strategies that actually work for new business owners

✅ The connection between personal development and business success

Chapters:

(05:42) SEO driven strategies for marketing for functional medicine

(10:09) Google or Facebook ads

(12:31) A lot of people start their businesses with a limited budget

(17:45) Direct people to your website

(21:46) Your website is the hero of the story

(31:19) Monetize  passion

(42:17) Unstoppable persistence 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Andrew Newland bio:

Andrew Newland is the Founder and CEO of Functional Medicine Marketing and the author of Digital Marketing & SEO for Functional Medicine Practices: The Best Online Marketing Methods for Getting More Calls, Better Leads & Bigger Profits. With a passion for results and a deep respect for the mission of functional and integrative clinicians, Andrew has become one of the leading voices in alternative healthcare marketing.

His mission is simple: to help you help more people.

To achieve that goal, he puts relationships first. Too many marketing agencies are bogged down by automated ticket systems, virtual agents, and complex processes. But you deserve more. Andrew Newland is here to understand your clinic’s needs and support you with excellent digital marketing services. 

Functional medicine puts the patient first. Functional medicine marketing puts the practice owner first. It’s that simple.

Connect with Andrew:

https://functionalmedmarketing.com 

Connect with Extraordinary America:

 https://extraordinary-amErika.com

https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

In this episode of Extraordinary Americans, we sit down with Andrew Newand, founder of Functional Medicine Marketing and author of "Digital Marketing and SEO for Functional Medicine Practices." Andrew shares his remarkable journey from struggling landscaper to marketing expert who's helped healthcare practices nationwide achieve astronomical growth.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, August 20th 

💰 Are You Paying TOO MUCH in Taxes? Small Business Owners, This Episode Will Save You Thousands! 

Did you know that taxes are likely your #1 business expense—and most entrepreneurs are overpaying WITHOUT realizing it? 

In this game-changing episode, Master Tax Advisor and IRS-Enrolled Agent Roger Pearson reveals the insider strategies that big corporations use to minimize their tax burden—and shows you how to do the same LEGALLY.

With over 50 years of business experience, Roger has watched hundreds of small business owners lose thousands of dollars needlessly. Now, he's on a mission to give entrepreneurs the knowledge to keep more money in their pockets and less in the government's hands.

🔥 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

✅ The 3 Pillars of Knowledge every business is built on (that nobody teaches you!)

✅ How to choose the RIGHT business structure (LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp) based on your 5-year vision

✅ Why your accountant might NOT be saving you money (and how to find one who will)

✅ The biggest tax mistakes small business owners make (and how to avoid them)

✅ How to interview and hire the right tax professional for YOUR business

✅ Legal strategies to maximize deductions and minimize tax liability

✅ Why your paperwork system directly impacts how much tax you pay

✅ Partnership red flags and how to protect yourself with a "business prenuptial."

Whether you're a solo entrepreneur, managing a small business, or planning to scale to the stock exchange, this episode is PACKED with actionable insights that could save you thousands (or even tens of thousands) every year.

Chapters:

(04:16) The three pillars of business that every business is built on

(17:02) How to hire a proper accountant or track professional

(21:37) One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting a business 

(30:20) What does the American dream mean 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

🎯 ABOUT ROGER PEARSON:

Roger Pearson is a Master Tax Advisor and IRS-Enrolled Agent who has created, sold, or managed numerous small businesses over 50+ years. Since 2001, he's dedicated his career to helping entrepreneurs build solid financial foundations and stop overpaying on taxes.

Seagull Technologies provides business education ranging from free basic business concepts courses to college-level paid courses, plus consulting services for personalized guidance. Their mission: helping small businesses succeed and build the great American dream.

📞 CONNECT WITH ROGER:

Website: https://seagulltechnologies.com 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9nYt2l1sEiw

💰 Are You Paying TOO MUCH in Taxes? Small Business Owners, This Episode Will Save You Thousands! 

Did you know that taxes are likely your #1 business expense—and most entrepreneurs are overpaying WITHOUT realizing it? 

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, August 13th      

Ever wonder how humor can transform your business? In this episode of Extraordinary Americans, we sit down with Jan McInnis, a comedy writer for Jay Leno's Tonight Show, Jerry Springer, and now a sought-after keynote speaker who's cracked the code on using humor in the corporate world.

Jan shares her incredible journey from marketing professional to comedy club performer to a keynote speaker for organizations such as the Federal Reserve Banks and Mayo Clinic. If you've ever felt stuck in your day job or wondered how to pursue your passion, this conversation is packed with practical advice and inspiring insights.

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ How to transition from a stable career to following your passion

✅ The "throw your hat over the fence" method for committing to change

✅ Practical tips on using humor to diffuse tension and handle change in business

✅ Inside stories from writing for Jay Leno and Jerry Springer

✅ Why clean comedy can open more doors than you think

✅ How to use humor without becoming the office comedian

Chapters:

(04:16) Motivational factor or catalyst that pushed Jan into comedy

(11:54) Being a comedian is something that can be learned

(15:38) The genre of humor that works the most effectively in business

(23:24) Technology has changed the way comedy is seen

(33:37) Using humor to deal with tough situations is a skill set and an art

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Jan McInnis bio:

Jan is the author of "Finding the Funny Fast" and "Convention Comedian" and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, and The Huffington Post.

🔗 CONNECT WITH JAN MCINNIS:

Website: theworklady.com

Email: jan@theworklady.com

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/tMuP5oKuTvs

Ever wonder how humor can transform your business? In this episode of Extraordinary Americans, we sit down with Jan McInnis, a comedy writer for Jay Leno's Tonight Show, Jerry Springer, and now a sought-after keynote speaker who's cracked the code on using humor in the corporate world.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, August 6th     

In this episode, we welcome Clint Harris, a professional real estate investor and entrepreneur, who shares his journey from a medical sales career to success in real estate. Clint discusses his transition to managing Airbnb properties and ultimately focusing on self-storage investments.

He emphasizes the importance of achieving financial, time, and location independence and offers valuable insights into navigating the real estate market, especially during uncertain economic times. Join us for an enlightening conversation packed with actionable strategies!

Chapters:

(03:33)  transitioning from medical sales to real estate investing to self-storage

(14:31) Adaptive reuse or cap rate arbitrage as a real estate investing strategy

(25:40) A recession is always coming

(31:27) What is the ideal portfolio that somebody should have to beat inflation

(39:24) You have a podcast called Truly Passive Income.

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Clint Harris bio:

Clint is a professional real estate investor and entrepreneur, and handles capital raising and investor relations at Nomad Capital. He owns Going Coastal Property Management and hosts the Truly Passive Income podcast. 

With a background in medical sales, Clint built a lucrative multi-family real estate portfolio that converted into high-performing Airbnb Properties. Frustrated with management services, he founded Going Coastal Property Management. 

For diversification, Clint transitioned to self-storage investments, eventually joining Nomad Capital as a general partner and buying old big-box retail buildings, converting them into self-storage. Having raised capital for over $150 million in stabilized assets, he aims to inspire financial independence for investors in both location and time.

CONNECT WITH Clint:

Text: 910-515-1785

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/SXYeZugDX7w?si=Cz-Xyvl2piHT9ElN

In this episode, we welcome Clint Harris, a professional real estate investor and entrepreneur, who shares his journey from a medical sales career to success in real estate. Clint discusses his transition to managing Airbnb properties and ultimately focusing on self-storage investments. He emphasizes the importance of achieving financial, time, and location independence and offers valuable insights into navigating the real estate market, especially during uncertain economic times. Join us for an enlightening conversation packed with actionable strategies!

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, July 30th    

In this episode, we welcome Mike Jesoshek, founder of Tax Elm and host of the Small Business Tax Savings podcast. Mike shares his journey as an entrepreneur and his passion for helping small business owners understand tax savings. 

He discusses common mistakes business owners make regarding taxes, the importance of tax planning, and how to legally maximize deductions. With actionable insights and strategies, Mike aims to empower listeners to take control of their tax situations and enhance their business growth.

Chapters:

(00:00) Who is Mike Jesoshek

(05:40) Understanding tax strategies is key to helping business owners succeed

(17:12) Structuring business and also on tax saving strategy

(24:52) Managing the team and managing employees are key business lessons

(27:01) Mike Rhett exited his firm because he was getting burned out

(29:56) The greatest mindset shift

(35:32) Mike has a podcast called Tax Saving, Small Business Tax Savings Podcast

(36:45) Mike's book is called the Small Business Tax Savings Handbook. 

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Mike Jesowshek  bio:

Mike is the founder of Tax Elm, host of the Small Business Tax Savings podcast, and author of the Small Business Tax Savings Handbook. He's helped thousands of entrepreneurs legally reduce their tax bills through clear, actionable strategies and is on a mission to make tax savings simple, accessible, and stress-free. Mike is a true expert in making tax savings simple for small business owners. 

As an entrepreneur, speaker, author, and podcast host, he's all about breaking down the complex world of taxes into easy-to-understand strategies. Having educated thousands of entrepreneurs nationwide, Mike's expertise makes navigating tax savings accessible, empowering business owners to take critical steps towards business growth and enhance wealth.

📫 CONNECT WITH Mike Jesowshek:

Website: https://taxsavingspodcast.com/About-us 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bIJwkRtjonk?si=e0Nlo6-8unVh1j15

In this episode, we welcome Mike Jesoshek, founder of Tax Elm and host of the Small Business Tax Savings podcast. Mike shares his journey as an entrepreneur and his passion for helping small business owners understand tax savings. 

He discusses common mistakes business owners make regarding taxes, the importance of tax planning, and how to legally maximize deductions. With actionable insights and strategies, Mike aims to empower listeners to take control of their tax situations and enhance their business growth.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, July 23rd   

Want to know the REAL secrets to raising capital for your business? Forget what you've seen on Shark Tank!

In this powerful conversation, Karl Dakin—Capital Coach with over 45 years of experience—reveals the proven strategies that successful entrepreneurs use to secure funding. This isn't theory; it's battle-tested wisdom from someone who's helped hundreds of businesses raise capital.

💡 What You'll Discover:

✅ The #1 mistake entrepreneurs make when seeking funding (and how to avoid it)

✅ Why most businesses are "invisible" to investors—and how to stand out

✅ The truth about what investors ACTUALLY look for beyond just ROI

✅ How to find your "funding soulmate"—investors who NEED you to succeed

✅ Angel investors vs. Venture Capital: Which is right for your business?

✅ The Motivated Money Method: A proven framework for raising capital

✅ Why your business plan alone won't get you funded

✅ How to communicate with investors in a way that makes them want to write checks

Chapters:

(04:28) Businesses need to determine how much capital they need

(08:07) Choose between venture capital and angel funding

(10:53)  Myth - every entrepreneur needs to raise funding

(14:05) raising capital and securing funding for a podcast

(20:52) First words to an investor candidate should be about outcomes

(23:21) common challenges facing small businesses trying to secure funding

(30:40) American identity is about freedom, and then we apply it to finances

(38:07) Carl Dakin offers a free consultation to anyone who has a capital raising challenge

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Karl Dakin bio:

Karl Dakin is the CEO and Owner of Dakin Capital, LLC, and author of "The Motivated Money Method." He's also the co-creator of Kapp, an AI-powered avatar designed to answer funding questions in real-time. His groundbreaking approach has transformed how entrepreneurs think about capital raising.

Whether you're launching a startup, scaling an existing business, or working on a community project, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can help you secure the funding you need to achieve your dreams.

📫 CONNECT WITH KARL DAKIN:

Website: https://dakincapital.com 

Email: kdakin@daikincapital.com

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/g-x2QtdI8Mo

Want to know the REAL secrets to raising capital for your business? Forget what you've seen on Shark Tank!

In this powerful conversation, Karl Dakin—Capital Coach with over 45 years of experience—reveals the proven strategies that successful entrepreneurs use to secure funding. This isn't theory; it's battle-tested wisdom from someone who's helped hundreds of businesses raise capital

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, July 16th    

 From selling glitter water at 5 to building million-dollar businesses | The Truth About Generational Wealth & Entrepreneurial Success

What happens when you watch your parents build a million-dollar company while battling addiction? For Kimberly Spencer, it became the blueprint for understanding that success is about mindset AND skillset—not just money.

In this powerful episode, award-winning coach and TEDx speaker Kimberly Spencer breaks down the real secrets behind building sustainable wealth, running multiple businesses while raising three kids, and why the second generation loses 70% of generational wealth.

🔥 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ The critical difference between inheriting money vs. inheriting an entrepreneurial mindset

✅ Why "secure" corporate jobs are riskier than entrepreneurship in 2024

✅ How to balance multiple businesses with family life (practical strategies)

✅ The art of pivoting when your "dream" doesn't fulfill you

✅ From screenwriting for Netflix to a 7-figure coaching empire

✅ Building resilience through calculated risk-taking

✅ The subconscious structures needed for business success

Kimberly's journey is proof that making your own mold beats conforming to someone else's. Featured on Netflix, Forbes, CNBC, and ESPN, she's revolutionizing how visionary leaders leverage their voices and build lasting impact.

Chapters:

(10:54) Three children run multiple businesses simultaneously

(14:45) How do we go about creating generational wealth in today's world

(22:40) Profit first approach 

(33:09) A lot of financial courses that teach entrepreneurship tend to be scams.

(36:43) What Americans should do in terms of educating themselves about business and entrepreneurship

(51:32) Kim discusses generational wealth and financial education on the Cosmos podcast.

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Kimberly Spencer bio:

Kimberly Spencer is a dynamic 16+ year entrepreneur, subconscious success strategist, Amazon #1 bestselling author, and TEDx speaker. As the founder of Crown Yourself® and CEO of Communication Queens Agency, she empowers leaders to transform self-limiting beliefs, rewrite their personal stories, and achieve holistic success in business, relationships, and life.

A former Miss Congeniality, certified Pilates instructor, screenwriter (with her film BRO acquired by Lionsgate), and multifaceted achiever in fitness, entrepreneurship, and pageantry, Kimberly draws from a journey marked by overcoming childhood challenges, including family addiction, bulimia, perfectionism, and chronic self-sabotage. Despite early successes across diverse fields—from running a Pilates studio and starring in London theater to pitching on Shark Tank auditions and building e-commerce ventures—she recognized that internal patterns of fear, codependency, and not-enoughness were undermining her wins.

This realization sparked her pivot to mindset mastery, blending neuro-linguistic programming, somatic practices, breathwork, and high-performance habits with practical entrepreneurship strategies. Today, she helps hundreds of visionary leaders clear unconscious blocks, align their mindset with messaging, amplify their visibility (including through podcasting mastery, as detailed in her #1 bestseller, Make Every Podcast Want You), and build empires rooted in freedom, fulfillment, and authenticity.

A health enthusiast fueled by green juice and espresso, a devoted mother to two boys, and an unsinkable optimist who believes in miracles, Manolos, and the profit in mistakes, Kimberly champions the idea that everyone can crown themselves sovereign by choosing a powerful new story. 

🔗 CONNECT WITH KIMBERLY SPENCER:

Website: https://www.crownyourself.com 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kodVzk2mxRc

From selling glitter water at 5 to building million-dollar businesses | The Truth About Generational Wealth & Entrepreneurial Success

What happens when you watch your parents build a million-dollar company while battling addiction? For Kimberly Spencer, it became the blueprint for understanding that success is about mindset AND skillset—not just money.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, July 9th    

What if the thing you fear most—CHANGE—is actually the key to unlocking your extraordinary life? 

In this powerful episode of Extraordinary America, host Cosmos sits down with Anne Bonney, a dynamic keynote speaker, two-time author, and host of the "Dancing in the Discomfort Zone" podcast. Anne's journey from a childhood spent moving across the globe (including Saudi Arabia!) to quitting her high-paying NYC corporate job and moving into her parents' basement will completely shift how you view life's uncomfortable moments.

🔥 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

✅ Why your brain is WIRED to resist change (and how to work with it, not against it)

✅ The "low-stakes discomfort" strategy that builds resilience without risking everything

✅ How to quiet the anxiety when making big life decisions (like starting your own business)

✅ The power of "action shrivels anxiety" and why movement beats overthinking

✅ Practical tools for navigating career transitions, toxic relationships, and major life shifts

✅ Anne's personal story of leaving security for purpose (and what happened next)

Chapters:

(03:35) How do you go about experiencing change when most people just settle down

(14:32) Consider the big move.

(20:08) The moment you make a huge change, you have to redefine your identity.

(27:21) How do average Americans achieve success

(35:48) Intentionally seek out uncomfortable experiences to get better at ones you can't control

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Anne Bonney bio:

Anne Bonney is a dynamic, energetic international motivational keynote speaker, trainer, and certified speaking professional (CSP®) who specializes in change management, resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication. As an authority on navigating change, she helps individuals and organizations thrive amid uncertainty by embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth and fulfillment.

From a young age, Anne embodied adaptability. At seven years old, when her parents announced a move to Saudi Arabia—her fifth relocation in as many years—she famously puffed up her chest and declared, “I’ve got places to go and people to see.” This early mindset has defined her life: change has become her comfort zone. Over the years, she has moved 27 times, attended 13 different schools from kindergarten through her master’s degree, lived on four continents, and built six distinct and successful careers.

Drawing on her extensive personal and professional experience—including two decades in corporate and nonprofit leadership—Anne has studied the anatomy of habits, change, and human reactions to uncertainty. She is the author of two books on change and resilience, a sought-after conference emcee, and the host and creator of the popular podcast Dancing in the Discomfort Zone, where she explores topics such as stepping beyond comfort zones, building courage, and leading through challenges.

A firm believer in the ancient wisdom of Heraclitus—“Change is the only constant in life”—Anne ignites audiences to get good at embracing it. Whether through high-energy keynotes, interactive workshops, or her TEDx talk Dancing with Discomfort: The Power of Seeking the Unfamiliar, she empowers people to intentionally seek the unfamiliar, strengthen their resilience, and lead more fun, fulfilling lives. Anne’s message is clear: discomfort isn’t something to avoid—it’s where real growth and courage begin.

🌐 CONNECT WITH ANNE BONNEY:

Website: https://yourchangespeaker.com 

Website: https://ignitingyourcourage.com 

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

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dancing-in-the-discomfort-zone-with-anne-bonney/id1444223443 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4wP-mxH54v4

In this powerful episode of Extraordinary America, host Cosmos sits down with Anne Bonney, a dynamic keynote speaker, two-time author, and host of the "Dancing in the Discomfort Zone" podcast. Anne's journey from a childhood spent moving across the globe (including Saudi Arabia!) to quitting her high-paying NYC corporate job and moving into her parents' basement will completely shift how you view life's uncomfortable moments.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, July 2nd   

In this episode, we sit down with Catrina Croft, a CPA and tax strategist who has transformed her own financial struggles into a thriving business helping others. After overcoming $100,000 in debt and losing 80% of her income, Catrina shares her journey and the advanced tax strategies used by the ultra-wealthy to protect and grow their wealth. 

From entity structuring to overlooked deductions, listeners will gain practical insights on how to leverage the tax code to their advantage. Tune in to discover how you can cut your taxes and boost your profits!

Chapters:

(02:49) Catrina helps other business owners utilize tax strategies to build wealth.

(10:56) An LLC is at the state level, so that's a limited liability company.

(24:14) Tax strategies are always changing.

(29:25) Most people want financial freedom, but they don't know how to achieve it.

(31:54) The biggest mistake people make when it comes to taxes is trying to do it themselves.

(38:18) Craft More Cash helps business owners maximize their cash and profitability.

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Catrina M Craft bio:

Catrina M. Craft is a dedicated tax strategist and wealth advisor who specializes in partnering with high-achieving entrepreneurs to build and preserve lasting wealth.

With a proven track record of implementing advanced tax strategies, Catrina has helped business owners save more than $150,000 annually in taxes, often transforming situations where clients were paying more in taxes than they earned in profits.

She focuses on uncovering hidden tax advantages known primarily to the nation's top 2%, making sophisticated planning accessible to driven entrepreneurs who lack the time or desire to navigate the complex, ever-changing tax code themselves.

Catrina empowers her clients to leverage the tax code not just for compliance but as a powerful tool to boost the bottom line, maximize deductions, achieve retirement goals, and protect generational wealth.

Recognizing that many successful business owners are unaware of the full potential available to them due to the intricacies of tax law, she serves as a trusted ally—working collaboratively to design personalized tax strategies and comprehensive legacy plans.

Connect with Catrina:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrinamcraft

https://craftmoneymap.com

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:  https://youtu.be/PnKBjSZlcTs

We sit down with Catrina Croft, a CPA and tax strategist who has transformed her own financial struggles into a thriving business helping others. After overcoming $100,000 in debt and losing 80% of her income, Catrina shares her journey and the advanced tax strategies used by the ultra-wealthy to protect and grow their wealth. 

From entity structuring to overlooked deductions, listeners will gain practical insights on how to leverage the tax code to their advantage. Tune in to discover how you can cut your taxes and boost your profits!

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, June 25th 

In this episode, we welcome Rod Khleif, a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and host of the largest commercial real estate podcast in the world. Rod shares his inspiring journey from a Dutch immigrant to owning over 2,000 properties, experiencing both monumental successes and significant setbacks, including a $50 million loss during the 2008 financial crisis. 

He discusses the mindset required to recover from failures and emphasizes the importance of goal setting, gratitude, and giving back. Join us for an enlightening conversation filled with valuable insights on resilience, success, and the true meaning of fulfillment.

Chapters:

(02:55) psychology and mindset behind his success in real estate

(11:27) It starts with goals, but then the next piece is making a decision

(14:15) Every successful person has fear, but action mitigates fear

(17:33) The most successful people on the planet have the highest degree of focus

(24:26) Gratitude is the most important foundational emotion we have available to us

(29:53) Give back right now, and you'll be happily achieving, Rod says

(32:36) If you want to be happy, give back

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Rod Khleif bio:

Rod is a multiple-time business owner and philanthropist who's passionate about business, high-performance real estate, and giving back. 

As one of the country's top real estate and peak-performance luminaries, he has also owned more than 2,000 properties. Rod soared from humble beginnings as a young, impoverished Dutch immigrant to incredible success. His experience includes both remarkable triumphs and spectacular failures, which he affectionately calls "seminars." Rod knows the mindset required to recover from losing $50 million in the 2008 crash to the success he enjoys today. 

And he brings incredible authenticity and insight to his approach to real estate, mindset, success, and life. Rod also founded the Tiny Hands Foundation, which has benefited more than 100,000 children in need. He's also the host of the world's largest commercial real estate podcast, Lifetime Cash Flow Real Estate Investing, with over 12 million downloads to date. 

Connect with Rod:

https://rodkhleif.com

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:    https://youtu.be/0htpeJc1mKY

We welcome Rod Khleif, a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and host of the world's largest commercial real estate podcast. Rod shares his inspiring journey from a Dutch immigrant to owning over 2,000 properties, experiencing both monumental successes and significant setbacks, including a $50 million loss during the 2008 financial crisis. 

He discusses the mindset required to recover from failures and emphasizes the importance of goal setting, gratitude, and giving back. Join us for an enlightening conversation filled with valuable insights on resilience, success, and the true meaning of fulfillment.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, June 18th

In this powerful episode, we welcome Sabrina Osso, the founder and CEO of OSSO SAFE, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to creating safe and respectful environments in homes, schools, and workplaces. 

Sabrina, a TEDx speaker and survivor of domestic violence, shares her journey from personal trauma to empowering others through education and technology. Discover how her OSSO SAFE certification is transforming the real estate industry and learn about her children's book, "Home Safe Home for You and Me," which serves as a vital resource for fostering respect and safety. 

Join us as we explore the importance of turning pain into power and the critical role of respect in preventing violence.

Chapters:

(01:20) Sabrina is a survivor of violence herself

(06:05) Sabrina founded OSSO SAFE to help victims of home violence

(10:22) Turn pain into power by practicing conscious breathing

(16:46) A therapist can help you turn darkness into power, into empowerment

(25:06) meditation to help abused children

(36:04) OSASAFE is working to make respect a required standard in homes

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Sabrina Osso  bio:

Sabrina is the founder and CEO of Ossosafe.com. Feel Safe where you live, learn, work, and play. She's a TEDx speaker, author, dancer, and real estate agent who prioritizes creating and maintaining respect in homes, workplaces, and schools. She combines education and technology through her core product, the OSSO Safe certification for properties, which entails the OSSO Safe Home sweet home package for the real estate industry. 

Also, part of the certification includes the children's book Home Safe Home for you and me. It serves as a tool for both children and adults ah alike and lays the groundwork for respect and safety. She's also a professional dancer and teacher who uses her performance skills to educate others about the subject. 

The Women's Federation for World Peace awarded Sabrina the March 2024 Her Story Award for her commitment to protecting children from domestic violence and fostering positive family relationships. As a real estate agent, Sabrina is bringing the real estate industry to OSSO Safe. 

Connect with Sabrina:

https://www.facebook.com/sabrina.osso.1

https://www.ossosafe.com

https://x.com/OssoSabrina

Connect with Cosmos:

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:    https://youtu.be/II3kwrjIMq4

Sabrina, a TEDx speaker and survivor of domestic violence, shares her journey from personal trauma to empowering others through education and technology. Discover how her OSSO SAFE certification is transforming the real estate industry and learn about her children's book, "Home Safe Home for You and Me," which serves as a vital resource for fostering respect and safety.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, June 11th 

In this episode, we welcome Barry Dyke, president of Castle Asset Management LLC, who brings over 40 years of experience in financial planning. Barry shares his contrarian views on the financial industry, the dangers of currency debasement, and the importance of financial education. 

He discusses how historical economic patterns can inform our current situation and offers practical advice on wealth creation and retirement planning. Don't miss this insightful conversation that aims to empower listeners to take control of their financial future.

Chapters:

(03:17) How do empires debase the currency, and how does that affect civilization

(20:39) What can people do to keep their money safe, liquid and profitable

(26:40) My faith, my family, my friends, physical fitness, and then finance

(36:58) What saddens me about America is the financial collapse

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Barry Dyke bio:

Barry James Dyke has been in the financial services business for close to four decades. He has owned a pension consulting firm and a third-party benefits administration firm. In 2001, he founded Castle Asset Management LLC, a registered investment advisory business. He prides himself on being a good listener and treating his clients’ wealth as if it were his own. As a best-selling author of three books, Barry has sold over 34,000 books in 23 countries since 2008. Barry warns about the dangers of too much debt on the balance sheets of individuals, families, and businesses as well as the hazards of excessive speculation that is so popular in society today. Through his research and writing, Barry argues that this gambling has provided the necessary cannon fodder for the collapse of the American dream. As a result of his conservative philosophy, Barry has successfully retained clients for decades. A list of The most important things in life for Barry are what he refers to as the “Five Fs”: faith, family, friends, physical fitness, and personal finance. A frequent speaker on economic issues, Barry has served as a retirement advisor for the educational endowment for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Co., a Fortune 500 company and is currently on the advisory board of Lafayette Life, a division of Western & Southern Financial Group, a Fortune 500 subsidiary company.

Connect with Barry:

https://www.barryjamesdyke.com

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:    https://youtu.be/90vMSFHEoO4

We welcome Barry Dyke, president of Castle Asset Management LLC, who brings over 40 years of experience in financial planning. Barry shares his contrarian views on the financial industry, the dangers of currency debasement, and the importance of financial education. 

He discusses how historical economic patterns can inform our current situation and offers practical advice on wealth creation and retirement planning. Don't miss this insightful conversation that aims to empower listeners to take control of their financial future.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, June 4th     

In this episode, we welcome Joey Seaman, the CEO and founder of Nova Echo, a revolutionary platform specializing in conversational voice AI technology. Joey shares his journey from marketing to the forefront of AI, discussing how his company is transforming customer interactions through intelligent automation. 

We examine the implications of AI for the workforce and society, exploring both the potential utopian and dystopian outcomes of AI's evolution. Join us for an enlightening conversation about the future of work, creativity, and the essence of the American dream.

Chapters:

(01:30) Joey Seaman is the CEO and founder of Nova Echo

(04:21) The motivational factor that motivates you to go through business

(11:55) A future where people don't have to earn a living

(18:49) Mindfulness meditation can help you control your mind and emotions

(23:55) Knowing what incentivizes and motivates people is very important in leadership

(34:11) People who are constantly chasing happiness will often not see that paradox

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Joey Seeman bio:

Joey Seeman is a teenage entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Nova Echo AI, a leading platform for hyper-realistic conversational voice AI that automates sales and customer service phone calls for businesses.

Raised in a modest New York City apartment by his single mother, Joey discovered his entrepreneurial drive early. At 12, he became a professional video gamer and content creator. By age 14, he launched his first business, persevering through initial struggles that yielded just $500 after 18 months.

At 15, while maintaining a 4.0 GPA and a full scholarship at one of Florida's top high schools, Joey scaled a voice AI agency to monthly revenues exceeding many teachers' annual salaries. He made the bold decision to drop out, becoming potentially the first in the world to sell a voice AI agency at age 16.

Shortly after, he founded Nova Echo AI, growing the team to 10, speaking on major stages, sponsoring high-profile events, and connecting with top influencers. The company has served hundreds of clients, with Joey's vision to scale impact to tens of thousands of businesses through advanced, human-like AI technology.

Known for his relentless work ethic and ability to persist through years of effort for breakthrough results, Joey embodies the philosophy that true conquest comes from unwavering focus on ambitious goals.

Connect with Joey:

https://joeyseeman.com

https://novaecho.ai 

Connect with Cosmos:

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:    https://youtu.be/K0Ymw3c7C7g

In this episode, we welcome Joey Seaman, the CEO and founder of Nova Echo, a revolutionary platform specializing in conversational voice AI technology. Joey shares his journey from marketing to the forefront of AI, discussing how his company is transforming customer interactions through intelligent automation. 

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, May 29th      

In this episode, we welcome George Dubec, a prominent expert in business and social networking. George shares his incredible journey from engineer at General Motors to becoming a successful entrepreneur and consultant. 

He discusses the evolution of the automotive industry, the challenges facing today's youth, and the importance of building a strong support network. As he reflects on his experiences, George emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards family values and community support, while also addressing pressing social issues in America. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights and motivation!

Chapters:

(01:30) George Dubec is considered one of the top business and social networking experts.

(09:30) Millennials and Gen Z need mentorship around business and investing.

(18:51) Take charge of your life and your finances yourself. 

(26:01) George Clooney says he got wrapped up in American culture

(32:23) You have to focus on the family first

(36:51) Many people are doing side hustles to help with inflation and debt

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

George Dubec bio:

George Dubec is recognized as one of the top marketing and networking experts in the USA, with over 50 years of experience across corporate, social, tech, and entrepreneurial fields.

He began his career in 1967 at Packard Electric (a General Motors division), rising from engineer to management over 18 years. In 1985, he relocated to South Florida, launching the largest singles network (Find-A-Mate) with over 10,000 members, gaining 7 years in social networking and matchmaking.

In the mid-1990s, as VP of Marketing & Sales for Interaxx TV Network, he focused on B2B sales, fundraising, and networking with major corporations and high-net-worth individuals. From 1997 to 2010, he served as VP at WebStream Internet Solutions, helping build it into a leading Southeast web design, marketing, and hosting firm while networking with Fortune 500 companies and non-profits.

Post-retirement, he excelled in network marketing, earning over $25,000 per week through large affiliate networks by recruiting, training, and mentoring. Additional ventures include hosting the national radio show "The Internet Business Hour" in over 35 markets, developing a music/entertainment promotion company, modeling in movies and TV, and directing the Nightingale-Conant Speakers Bureau for 4 years (scheduling top speakers like Anthony Robbins, Zig Ziglar, and Brian Tracy).

A nationally recognized speaker and author, he has recently published Ultimate Networking and the accompanying Ultimate Networking Workbook.

Connect with George:

call 561-777-3196

george@georgedubec.com

www.georgedubec.com

https://americasrealdeal.com

https://theultimatenetworker.com

https://www.facebook.com/georgedubec

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgedubec

https://www.instagram.com/georgedubec

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:    https://youtu.be/TbGNW-m2Joc

In this episode, we welcome George Dubec, a prominent expert in business and social networking. George shares his incredible journey from engineer at General Motors to becoming a successful entrepreneur and consultant. 

He discusses the evolution of the automotive industry, the challenges facing today's youth, and the importance of building a strong support network. As he reflects on his experiences, George emphasizes the need for a cultural shift towards family values and community support, while also addressing pressing social issues in America. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insights and motivation!

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, May 22nd.   

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Dr. Erika Rasure, a financial therapist and chief financial wellness advisor at Beyond Finance. Dr. Erika shares her journey from financial advisor to therapist, emphasizing the emotional aspects of financial wellness. 

Discover how debt impacts mental health, the concept of 'loud budgeting,' and the importance of mindful spending. Join us as we explore the connection between personal values and financial decisions, and learn how to break the cycle of debt through self-acceptance and support.

Chapters:

(04:36) Financial wellness is the ability to meet your current obligations, but also feel secure.

(08:00) There's a lot of stress and anxiety that comes from being in debt

(10:03) Erika  advocates for the loud budgeting strategy

(11:53) The Shame of Debt

(22:06) Debt doesn't discriminate, regardless of how much you make

(23:04) There has to be a readiness present in someone to overcome debt

(25:58) Generally, people feel more confident after financial therapy sessions

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Dr. Erkia Rasure bio:

Dr. Erika Rasure is an internationally recognized leader in holistic financial wellness, passionately dedicated to bridging the gap between money and personal empowerment. With over two decades of experience in financial therapy and coaching, she has reshaped financial well-being to make it more accessible, practical, and deeply personal.

As Chief Financial Wellness Advisor at Beyond Finance, Dr. Rasure leads innovative initiatives to deliver real-world solutions that improve financial health and transform individuals' relationships with money. She played a key role in developing National Financial Practice Week, an initiative to advance financial wellness by emphasizing actionable habits over mere literacy.

In addition to her work at Beyond Finance, she serves on the Financial Review Boards for Investopedia, The Balance, VeryWell Family, and VeryWell Parents, where she helps shape informed, empathetic dialogue and education around personal finance. Her expertise has been featured in prominent outlets such as MindBodyGreen, CNN, and Forbes.

Dr. Rasure holds a PhD in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University. She is a Certified Financial Therapist™ Practitioner and Certified Deep Transformational Coach, blending rigorous academic knowledge with therapeutic and coaching approaches.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Rasure maintains a rich personal yoga practice and teaches as a registered yoga instructor at Maryville University, sharing movement and mindfulness with students, faculty, and staff.

Connect with Erika:

https://www.beyondfinance.com 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikarasure 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:   https://youtu.be/WG1kjD1MprQ

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Dr. Erika Rasure, a financial therapist and chief financial wellness advisor at Beyond Finance. Dr. Erika shares her journey from financial advisor to therapist, emphasizing the emotional aspects of financial wellness. 

Discover how debt impacts mental health, the concept of 'loud budgeting,' and the importance of mindful spending. Join us as we explore the connection between personal values and financial decisions, and learn how to break the cycle of debt through self-acceptance and support.

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, May 14th     

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Gross, the president of BSG PR, who brings over 32 years of experience in media and public relations. 

Brian shares his journey from interning at Deaf American Recordings to working with high-profile clients like Gene Simmons and Sasha Grey. He discusses the intricacies of working with celebrities, the importance of listening to clients, and the evolution of public relations in the age of social media. 

Join us as we explore the challenges and rewards of this dynamic industry!

Chapters:

(02:56) Brian Miller shares his story about how he got started in PR

(05:14) What are the main differences between working with anonymous and celebrity employees

(10:18) People should definitely research PR firms that handle specific products or brands

(12:43) In today's world, social media has been a very big factor

(15:26) What does the American dream actually mean to you

(17:46) The idea of perception

(20:50) Young people get into public relations

(21:18) Doing research is key to improving your brand and your reputation

Sponsored by:

BLU Scholarship: https://www.blu.university/a/2147984849/YbykQKgP

Brian Gross bio:

Brian Gross, President of BSG PR, has been in the service of media and public relations for over 32 years. Gross has been employed by companies such as Def American Recordings, Warner Brothers Records, Reprise Records, Elektra Entertainment Group, Vivid Entertainment Group, and such organizations as The Lollapalooza Tour. Brian Gross was an Executive Producer for Reality-X: The Search For Adam & Eve.  His background includes all facets of public and media relations, working with some of the largest businesses, celebrities, and music acts in the world.

Clients of BSG PR, past and present, include Gene Simmons, Sasha Grey, Maitland Ward, Adam & Eve, PlusOne, AdultTime, Penthouse, Phoenix Books, The AVN Adult Entertainment Expo, Joanna Angel, BurningAngel, Greg Lansky, The Vixen Media Group, Pink Visual, Evil Angel, Girlsway, Autoblow A.I., CamCon, The Fearless Man, Nina Hartley, Lupe Fuentes, Kendra Sunderland, LA Pop Art, Liberation Entertainment, Ecko TV, Kaiju Big Battel, Eyeglasses.com, Lucky 13 Clothing, Pinup Girl Clothing, Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival, Chuck Zito, Omarosa, Blanc/Biehn Productions, Stockroom, Tony Clifton, Big Teaze Toys, Slixa, WantedList, Sheri’s Ranch, WoodRocket and many others…

Connect with Brian:

https://www.instagram.com/bsgpr 

Connect with Extraordinary America: https://extraordinary-america.com/platform

Or Watch on YouTube:   https://youtu.be/85p4TdUZYws

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Gross, the president of BSG PR, who brings over 32 years of experience in media and public relations. 

Brian shares his journey from interning at Deaf American Recordings to working with high-profile clients like Gene Simmons and Sasha Grey. He discusses the intricacies of working with celebrities, the importance of listening to clients, and the evolution of public relations in the age of social media. 

Join us as we explore the challenges and rewards of this dynamic industry!

You can hear the full episode on Thursday, May 7th