Mick Unplugged – Details, episodes & analysis

What happens when uncertainty meets vulnerability? According to Dr. Darryl Stickel, that intersection creates trust—or destroys it. As today's uncertain world pushes people toward self-protection, leaders face unprecedented challenges in building the trust necessary for high-performing teams. Dr. Stickel brings a uniquely powerful perspective to this conversation, drawing from personal adversity that shaped his understanding of human vulnerability. After suffering a traumatic hockey injury that left him with cognitive challenges at 17, and facing progressive vision loss from a hereditary condition, he developed extraordinary empathy that would later inform his groundbreaking work. His doctoral research at Duke University on building trust in hostile environments established him as what host Mick calls "the architect of trust." The insights shared in this episode go far beyond theory. Dr. Stickel breaks down his practical framework where "trust equals uncertainty times vulnerability," explaining why our current environment makes trust-building especially challenging—and critical. With 70% of employees disengaged and what he describes as a "broken social contract" between organizations and workers, trust has become the new currency of leadership. Most provocatively, Dr. Stickel reveals that "95% of people believe they're more trustworthy than average," highlighting the dangerous blind spots that prevent leaders from recognizing trust deficits. He offers immediate, actionable approaches to measuring and building trust through conversations around benevolence, integrity, and ability, with special attention to the unique challenges of remote work environments. Whether you're managing a team, building a business, or simply trying to strengthen personal relationships, this episode provides a masterclass in the mechanics of trust—complete with the tools to start rebuilding it today. After all, as Dr. Stickel reminds us, trust is a skill we can all develop with practice. Connect & Discover Darryl:  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-stickel-phd/?originalSubdomain=ca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darryl.stickel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq1dQmEjT5a0T8xy3B2YRKw Website: https://www.trustunlimited.com/about/ Podcast:  https://imperfectcafe.buzzsprout.com/ Book: Building Trust: Exceptional Leadership in an Uncertain World FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marc Morial sits at the rare intersection of politics, activism, and business – a civil rights titan whose journey from transformative New Orleans mayor to National Urban League CEO offers profound lessons in leadership and community building. The foundation of Morial's remarkable career began in childhood, watching his parents' civil rights work from the sidelines. What began as "childcare" – tagging along to NAACP meetings and voter registration drives – became the classroom where he absorbed leadership from community giants. This early immersion shaped his lifelong commitment to economic justice and equality of opportunity. As New Orleans mayor, Morial tackled seemingly insurmountable challenges with innovative approaches. Faced with record crime rates, he refused to choose between enforcement and prevention, instead rebuilding the police department while simultaneously creating unprecedented youth programming – summer camps, job programs, and initiatives specifically for girls who had been overlooked by previous administrations. His "Gumbo Coalition" administration championed inclusivity, featuring record numbers of women and the first Asian American and LGBTQ cabinet members in city history. When Morial arrived at the National Urban League, he found an organization proud of its history but "operating in the past tense." Through visionary leadership, he's expanded the organization fivefold, broadening its portfolio to include workforce development, housing assistance, entrepreneurship programs, and strengthened advocacy work – all while building powerful coalitions with other civil rights organizations. Today, Morial warns of an unprecedented assault on civil rights progress and urges listeners not to succumb to complacency or despair. "In the short run, you hear noise but don't feel the damage. In the long run, the noise will subside, but the damage will be done," he cautions. His call to action is clear: defend fundamental American principles by getting involved, using your voice, and mentoring the next generation. Ready to be part of the solution? Visit NUL.org to join advocacy efforts or find a local affiliate in your community.  Connect & Discover Marc: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcmorial/?hl=en X: https://x.com/marcmorial?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-morial-59b05130/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcmorial/ FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website:https://www.mickhuntofficial.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert J. O'Neill, the Navy SEAL who took out Osama Bin Laden, brings raw truth and battle-tested wisdom to this riveting conversation about what separates elite performers from everyone else. "Stress is a choice," O'Neill states with conviction, describing it as "a bag of bricks you pick up." Drawing from over 400 combat missions, including the most famous raid in modern military history, he reveals how elite operators manage fear and make split-second decisions when lives hang in the balance. The most powerful moment comes when O'Neill recounts saying goodbye to his three-year-old daughter before departing for the Bin Laden mission. Not understanding the gravity of the situation, she packed her Hello Kitty suitcase and left it by the door, asking him to take her on vacation when he returned. These deeply human moments remind us that behind every warrior's face is a person with profound personal connections. From his accidental journey into the SEALs (he didn't even know how to swim) to the mental techniques that helped him survive the world's most brutal military training, O'Neill shares actionable wisdom applicable far beyond the battlefield. His philosophy – "Don't quit today, quit tomorrow" – offers a powerful framework for tackling seemingly impossible challenges by breaking them into manageable pieces. O'Neill's insights on leadership resonate whether you're leading a team into combat or through a difficult project: "Panic is contagious, but calm is even more contagious." His emphasis on mastering fundamentals, communicating clearly, and staying present are lessons distilled from life-or-death situations but remarkably relevant to everyday challenges. Subscribe now to hear more unfiltered conversations with extraordinary performers who've tested themselves at the highest levels. These aren't just war stories – they're masterclasses in mental toughness, leadership, and finding purpose in the most demanding circumstances imaginable. Connect & Discover Robert: Website: http://www.robertjoneill.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mchooyah Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RJORobertJONeill Books: The Operator Book: The Way Forward: Master Life's Toughest Battles and Create Your Lasting Legacy FOLLOW MICK ON: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another illuminating episode of Mick Unplugged! Today we bring you an extraordinary conversation with Grace Vandecruze, a powerhouse in the financial world and author of the transformative book "Homeless to Millionaire." In this episode, Grace takes us on her journey from homelessness to making over $25 billion in insurance mergers and acquisitions, including deals with Warren Buffett. She shares invaluable insights on resilience, education, and financial empowerment, inspired by her grandmother's wisdom to "believe beyond your limits." Plus, an exciting offer – Mick Hunt will be giving away 20 copies of Grace’s book to the first listeners who message "financial abundance" via email, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Join us for a deep dive into Grace's inspiring life, practical advice for achieving financial success, and the promise of an empowering follow-up episode. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your financial game and connect with us for more enriching content. Let's get started! Takeaways: Believe beyond your limits and look beyond your current circumstances Education can be a bridge to a brighter future The insurance industry is pivotal for building wealth and lifting generations out of poverty Financial literacy is essential for achieving financial abundance Sound Bites "My life is a result of not believing in any limits of any of your circumstances." "In your situation is a gift." "Grace Global Capital is an example of living it every day."   Connect and DiscoverLinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/gracevandecruze Instagram:  Instagram.com/gracevandecruze Facebook:  facebook.com/gracevandecruze Website:  graceglobalcapital.com Book: Homeless to Millionaire: 6 Keys to Uplift Your Financial Abundance     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another insightful episode of "Mick Unplugged"! Today, we're diving deep into the world of financial literacy, mentorship, and smart investing with our guest, Herman Dolce. As the founder of Bella Sloan Enterprises and Bella Sona Academy, Herman is dedicated to educating individuals on the importance of financial education and strategic investments.In this episode, we'll explore how having a mentor can save you from costly mistakes, the value of surrounding yourself with the right influences, and the powerful analogy of using "fast passes" to accelerate your success. Herman will share personal anecdotes, such as how guidance from his brother led him to establish his thriving business, and how wisdom from mentors like Les Brown has shaped our host, Mick Hunt's journey. We'll also delve into the nuances of good debt versus bad debt, strategic business financing, and Herman's mission to teach financial literacy from high school classrooms to boardrooms. Whether you're looking to better manage your credit, invest wisely, or simply understand the tax laws better, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories to help you achieve financial freedom. So tune in as we unlock the secrets to financial success and personal growth with Herman Dolce, only on "Mick Unplugged".Takeaways: Financial literacy and education are crucial for achieving financial freedom. Not all debt is bad debt; understanding the difference between good and bad debt is important. Having a mentor and investing in coaches can provide valuable wisdom and shortcuts to success. Initiatives like Bella Sloan Academy and the Blueprint Foundation aim to teach financial literacy to individuals of all ages. Sound Bites "Everybody should not have a business. But everyone should be an investor." "We need to have amazing examples of what we truly want to be. It is the shortcut and hack to be successful in this life." Connect and DiscoverLinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/herman-dolce Instagram:  Instagram.com/Haitian_CEO Facebook:  facebook.com/BellaSloanEnterprises TikTok: @Haitian_CEO Website:  bellasloanllc.com Non-Profit: Blue Print Foundation                     Podcast: Execute! Books: ABC’s of Credit               Bella Builds Business Credit       See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another enlightening episode of *Mick Unplugged*! In today's session, our host Mick Hunt sits down with the remarkable Marquel Russell. Known for his unparalleled ability to simplify complex business concepts and make them accessible for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike, Marquel shares his inspirational journey from high school dropout to a globe-trotting entrepreneur and founder of Client Attraction University. We'll uncover his deeper purpose and how he views his work as a spiritual mission, dive into his impactful strategies that have helped millions, and explore the concept of intrapreneurship—highlighting how entrepreneurial skills can thrive within existing companies. Tune in as Marquel discusses everything from his background and transition from drug dealing to legal and successful ventures to his innovative approaches in marketing and business scaling. Whether you're an aspiring business owner, a seasoned entrepreneur, or looking to make a mark within your organization, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and motivational stories that you won't want to miss. Stay tuned to *Mick Unplugged*! Takeaways: Being available and visible as a leader is a mark of true leadership. Retargeting is a powerful strategy that allows businesses to reach potential customers who have shown interest but haven't taken action. Meaningful work and aligning goals with values are key to creating a fulfilling life. Sound Bites "You can have as many leads as you want, but if they're not moving through your process, you just have a very heavy top end and at some point that top end falls down “To be available, to be visible for those that are striving to get to where you are, to me is a mark of true leadership." Connect and DiscoverLinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/marquel-russell Instagram:  Instagram.com/marquelrussell Facebook:  facebook.com/ceomarquelrussell Website: scalemadeeasy.com Podcast: Strategic Scale with Marquel Russell         See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another electrifying episode of Mick Unplugged! Today, we're diving into the mind of business strategist extraordinaire, Chris Lee. Join host Mick Hunt as he unpacks Chris’s insights on the true essence of entrepreneurship, the critical role of business identity, and the paramount importance of culture in scaling successful businesses. Discover why your only competition is the pain you're solving and learn from Chris's unique experiences and game-changing strategies that have led him to impact billions. Buckle up for bold moves and raw insights in this unmissable conversation!  Takeaways Entrepreneurs have the power to change society through entrepreneurship by providing value and solving customer pain points. One common mistake entrepreneurs make when scaling their businesses is working solely for money instead of focusing on their people and developing a strong company culture. Charging more for products or services can lead to better customer experiences and higher profits, as long as the value provided justifies the price. Creating a strong company culture is essential for success, and it can be achieved through a clear vision and mission, core values, and a focus on the whole human approach. Top 3 Questions answered in the episode: Why is maintaining a business identity crucial for growth? Chris emphasizes that businesses should focus on their unique identity and solving customer pain points, rather than trying to impress others or compete on price alone. What are the common mistakes made by entrepreneurs in their growth journey? Chris points out flaws such as prioritizing money over mission, neglecting employee development, and misusing profits for personal gain instead of reinvesting in the business. How can a business effectively create and maintain a strong culture? Chris highlights the importance of a designed culture, stressing a clear vision, mission, and core values actively practiced within the organization to ensure holistic employee development. Sound Bites "Money chases value and entrepreneurs can change society through entrepreneurship." "Charge more and provide more, either be the most expensive or the cheapest in the market." "You are not in competition with anybody, your competition is the pain you are solving." Connect and Discover: LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/chris-lee-0b02722b Instagram:  Instagram.com/chrisleeqb Facebook:  facebook.com/chrisleeqb Website:  gonextlevelpros.com Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-level-pros/id1687030281 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another impactful episode of Mick Unplugged! Today, we have the honor of hosting Martha and Chris Thomas, founders of the nonprofit "The Defensive Line," which is dedicated to preventing youth suicide, particularly among young people of color. In this episode, we dive deep into the pressing issues of mental health stigma, the importance of community support, and actionable steps to recognize and address mental health struggles.   We discuss societal expectations around masculinity, the significance of showing vulnerability, and how local resources and crisis hotlines like 988 can make a life-saving difference. Martha and Chris also share their personal motivations, inspired by their late daughter Ella, to foster open conversations about mental health and collaborate with organizations like AFSP and Dak Prescott’s Faith by Finish. Join us as we explore how comprehensive health encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and hear about their exciting plans to expand their training programs with the Clinton Global Initiative. Plus, learn about the unique impact their workshops and keynotes are having on schools, universities, and communities nationwide. Your unique purpose is your superpower, so tune in, push your limits, embrace your goals, and chase greatness with us today on Mick Unplugged!   Top 3 Questions answered in the episode: How can we recognize the signs of someone struggling with mental health issues and intervene? Discussion Points Notice behavioral changes, isolation, and giving away possessions. Improve awareness and confidence through workshops and panels. How can asking direct questions about suicide help prevent it rather than cause harm? Discussion Points Directly asking about suicidal thoughts can be helpful. Role plays are used to reduce discomfort and improve response readiness. What role do tailored strategies for people of color play in dealing with mental health crises? Discussion Points Suicide increasingly affects communities of color. Utilize community leaders and organizations to provide customized support.   Takeaways Mental health impacts not just individuals but entire communities. Open conversations about mental health can reduce stigma. Taking action after a tragedy can lead to meaningful change. Connection and listening are vital in supporting those in need. Recognizing signs of mental health struggles is crucial for intervention.   Connect and Discover: LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/the-defensive-line Instagram:  Instagram.com/thedefensiveline Facebook:  facebook.com/thedefensiveline Website:  thedefensiveline.org Podcast:  @thedefensiveline1238   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Mick Unplugged! In today's episode, we dive into an eye-opening discussion with Dr. Anthony Mazzella, a trailblazer in integrated medicine and holistic care. Together with your host Mick Hunt, Dr. Mazzella challenges conventional wisdom on boundaries in relationships, offering insights into the value of getting closer to someone's subjective experience for true understanding and conflict resolution. We delve deep into psychodynamic and psychoanalytic therapies, exploring how they address root causes rather than just symptoms. Dr. Mazzella sheds light on complex topics like narcissism and borderline personality disorder, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and effective communication. We'll also touch on the fascinating intersections of depression, anxiety, and personality disorders, and how nuanced approaches can lead to better mental health outcomes. And for those battling sleepless nights, both Mick and Dr. Mazzella share their unique strategies for turning insomnia into productivity. So, get ready for a transformative and enlightening conversation that promises to shift your perspective on mental wellness and relationships. Let's get unplugged!   Takeaways ·      Self-reflection and understanding are crucial in relationships with narcissists. ·      Closer communication and validation can help manage conflicts with narcissistic individuals. ·      Narcissism and borderline personality disorder have overlapping characteristics but differ in terms of self-image and emotional regulation. ·      Depression and anxiety can be symptoms of underlying personality disorders and may require a different approach to treatment.   Sound Bites "You're one of the very few people that are qualified." "Get as close as possible to what just happened." "Appreciating somebody's subjective experience."   Here are 3 Key Takeaways: Beyond Boundaries: Dr. Mazzella challenges the conventional approach of "creating boundaries" in relationships by suggesting that we sometimes need to get closer to understand each other’s subjective experiences. This isn’t about tolerating abuse but fostering deeper connections and empathy. Understanding Over Labels: Labeling someone as a "narcissist" can escalate conflicts and hinder understanding. Dr. Mazzella emphasizes the need for psychoanalytic approaches that work on underlying issues rather than just addressing the symptoms. Handling Dysregulated Emotional States: When someone is in an emotionally charged state, the first step is to validate their feelings. Acknowledgment and validation help move them from a place of distress to one where they can reflect and manage their emotions better. 💡 Bonus Insight: Both Dr. Mazzella and Mick Hunt shared their unique approach to sleepless nights—using the time for productive reflection rather than struggling to sleep. Trusting your body to find its balance can be more beneficial than stressing over insomnia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another compelling episode of Mick Unplugged. Today, we have the honor and privilege of hosting an exceptional guest, Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans, a decorated U.S. veteran with over 27 years of service. Known for her incredible resilience and inspiring journey, Sergeant Major Evans has transformed the trauma and challenges she faced in combat into a powerful mission of hope and advocacy for veterans. In this episode, we dive deep into her story of overcoming life-altering injuries, finding purpose beyond adversity, and her unwavering commitment to giving back. From her military career to her work as a motivational speaker and leader of Team Unbroken, Sergeant Major Evans' insights on resilience, grit, and living a life in service of others will leave you inspired and motivated. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be moved by the extraordinary tale of Sergeant Major Gretchen Evans. Takeaways Acknowledge and process pain and trauma before moving forward Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success Form a supportive community and help others Live a life without regrets and pursue your purpose Sound Bites "I had a couple of days of the whimy and a little bit of a pity party" "I'm not gonna let what happened to me define who I am" "Failure is not the end of the story. Failure is just another chapter in the book" Connect and Discover: ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices