Episodes

  • From Singing in Parks to Selling Out Arenas: AJR’s Adam Met on Building Success from Scratch | E113

    From Singing in Parks to Selling Out Arenas: AJR’s Adam Met on Building Success from Scratch | E113
    Jun 24 2025
    As a teenager performing on New York’s streets and parks, Adam Met never imagined selling out arenas nationwide. Alongside his brothers Jack and Ryan, he formed the band AJR, playing for hours each summer while learning to capture the attention of indifferent passersby. A single tweet to Sia changed everything, launching their breakthrough. Balancing music with demanding academic work and nonprofit leadership, Adam mastered the art of building an engaged fan base that is driven to action. In this episode, Adam joins Ilana to share insights from his new book, Amplify, which blends his experiences in music and climate advocacy to inspire community building across various fields. Adam Met is a musician, climate advocate, educator, and member of the multiplatinum band AJR. He is the Executive Director of Planet Reimagined, a nonprofit leveraging media and strategic advocacy to mobilize climate action. In this episode, Ilana and Adam will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:51) Early Musical Influences and Street Performances (04:04) Coping with Rejection as a Child Performer (05:52) Attracting an Audience While Embracing Nerves (09:30) How One Tweet to Sia Changed AJR’s Career (13:01) Why “I’m Ready” Became a Smash Hit (16:58) Overcoming the Fear of Being a One-Hit Wonder (21:29) The Innovative Strategies Behind AJR’s Success (26:56) Two Key Tactics to Build an Engaged Fan Base (28:48) The Birth of Adam’s Debut Book, Amplify (31:28) How Adam Merges Music and Climate Advocacy (34:21) Adapting Quickly: The Drive-In Concert Pivot (39:21) Funding Climate Action Through Bipartisan Support Adam Met is a musician, climate advocate, educator, and member of the multiplatinum band AJR. He is the Executive Director of Planet Reimagined, a nonprofit using media and strategic advocacy to mobilize climate action. Adam works closely with Congress and the White House to promote renewable energy and serves as a sustainability advocate for the United Nations Development Programme. In recognition of his efforts, Adam received the 2024 TIME Earth Award and was named a New York Times Changemaker. Connect with Adam: Adam’s Website: adammet.net Adam’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adam-met-38274379 Resources Mentioned: Adam’s Book, Amplify: How to Use the Power of Connection to Engage, Take Action, and Build a Better World: https://www.amazon.com/Amplify-Connection-Engage-Action-Better/dp/0593735900 Planet Reimagined: planetreimagined.com Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    49 mins
  • From Near Bankruptcy to a $745M Exit: The Raw Truth Behind Kass & Mike’s Entrepreneurship Journey | E112

    From Near Bankruptcy to a $745M Exit: The Raw Truth Behind Kass & Mike’s Entrepreneurship Journey | E112
    Jun 17 2025
    Kass and Mike Lazerow’s entrepreneurial journey began with a leap of faith and a lot of grit. They started Golf.com with funding from friends and family, only to be acquired by a company that later went bankrupt. Forced to raise capital and revive their business against all odds, they quickly learned that entrepreneurship means facing setbacks every day and building the resilience to keep going when it feels impossible. In this episode, Kass and Mike join Ilana to dive into their new book, Shoveling $h!t, sharing the struggles behind their wins, the fears they confronted, and how they built successful businesses while balancing parenthood, marriage, and health challenges. Kass and Mike Lazerow are serial entrepreneurs, investors, and co-founders of Golf.com and Buddy Media. After selling Golf.com to Time Warner, they co-founded Buddy Media, a leading social media marketing platform that was acquired by Salesforce for $745 million. In this episode, Ilana, Kass, and Mike will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (00:35) Meeting and Collaborating with GaryVee (03:20) Childhood Challenges and Family Struggles (09:43) Early Ventures and the Birth of Golf.com (13:40) Kass and Mike’s Relationship Journey (18:20) Facing Near Bankruptcy After Acquisition Offers (23:02) Leading with Transparency in Crisis (26:08) Fundraising Success and Tiger Woods's Influence (28:44) Navigating Parenthood While Building a Business (35:33) Prioritizing Health Amid Career Demands (39:38) Breaking Gender Bias in Entrepreneurship (43:57) Building a Thick Skin as an Entrepreneur (47:31) Overcoming Fear and Taking Action Kass and Mike Lazerow are serial entrepreneurs, investors, and co-founders of Golf.com and Buddy Media. After selling Golf.com to Time Warner, they co-founded Buddy Media, a leading social media marketing platform that was acquired by Salesforce for $745 million. Together, Mike and Kass have supported nearly 100 early-stage startup founders and have received multiple awards recognizing their leadership and impact in entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Connect with Kass and Mike: Kass and Mike’s Website: www.kassandmike.com Kass and Mike’s Email: info@kassandmike.com Resources Mentioned: Kass and Mike Book, Shoveling $H!t: A Love Story about the Entrepreneur's Messy Path to Success: https://www.amazon.in/Shoveling-Story-about-Entrepreneurs-Success/dp/B0DY21NS7W Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    58 mins
  • NBCUniversal Vice Chairman, Bonnie Hammer: Breaking Myths About Climbing to the Top | E111

    NBCUniversal Vice Chairman, Bonnie Hammer: Breaking Myths About Climbing to the Top | E111
    Jun 10 2025
    Bonnie Hammer’s passion for photography and storytelling led her to an internship on a TV production set, but instead of a glamorous role, her first job involved cleaning up dog poop. Despite these humble beginnings, Bonnie’s curiosity, strong work ethic, and willingness to tackle any task helped her rise through the ranks at NBC Universal, eventually becoming vice chairman and a powerhouse in the cable industry In this episode, Bonnie shares how her ability to learn, embrace opportunities, and adapt to change shaped her success, and how tough mentors and tough love played crucial roles in her career growth. Bonnie Hammer is an author, businesswoman, and media executive. She served as vice chair of NBCUniversal, where she spent decades transforming the television industry. Under her leadership, the company’s cable group and studios achieved record profits, garnered 167 Emmy nominations, and launched hundreds of hit series, including Suits. In this episode, Ilana and Bonnie will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:58) From Photography Passion to TV Career Launch (10:11) Embracing Career Growth Opportunities (16:46) The Impact of Mentorship on Her Career (22:06) Tough Love as a Driver for Success (29:44) Bonnie’s Key to Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (31:52) How to Thrive During Organizational Changes (34:29) Transforming Career Setbacks into Opportunities (40:16) How to Communicate Your Professional Value (43:16) The Power of Hunger and Resilience (46:34) Turning Small Opportunities into Big Breaks (51:05) Redefining Success on Your Own Terms Bonnie Hammer is an author, businesswoman, and media executive. She served as vice chair of NBCUniversal, where she spent decades transforming the television industry. Under her leadership, the company’s cable group and studios achieved record profits, garnered 167 Emmy nominations, and launched hundreds of hit series, including Suits. Bonnie was named “the Queen of Cable” by The New York Times and hailed as “the most powerful woman in entertainment” by The Hollywood Reporter. Resources Mentioned: Bonnie’s Book, 15 Lies Women Are Told at Work: …And the Truth We Need to Succeed: https://www.amazon.com/Lies-Women-Are-Told-Work/dp/1668027615 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    55 mins
  • Gretchen Carlson: The Journalist Who Defied Fox News and Exposed Workplace Abuse | E110

    Gretchen Carlson: The Journalist Who Defied Fox News and Exposed Workplace Abuse | E110
    Jun 3 2025
    In 2016, former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson made a bold move that transformed the conversation around workplace harassment. After enduring years of mistreatment, she filed a lawsuit against Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. Despite the immense personal and professional risks, this courageous act helped spark the #MeToo movement, giving a voice to countless women who had suffered in silence. Now, through her nonprofit, Gretchen is working to dismantle the silencing mechanisms that allow harassment to thrive in the workplace. In this episode, Gretchen joins Ilana to share how her painful experiences fueled her mission to create safer, more inclusive environments for all. Gretchen Carlson is a journalist, author, and women’s rights advocate. As the co-founder of Lift Our Voices, a nonprofit combating forced arbitration and toxic workplace environments, her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes. In this episode, Ilana and Gretchen will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (02:15) The Decision to File a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit (04:42) Why Most Victims Struggle to Speak Out (11:40) The Role of a Support System in Tough Times (15:19) Learning to Advocate for Herself as a Child (17:57) From Violin Prodigy to Miss America (23:37) Building a Thick Skin as Miss America (26:47) Facing Sexual Assault Early in Her Career (30:00) How to Foster Safe and Inclusive Workplaces (37:11) Balancing Ambition, Family, and Career in TV (42:19) Creating Change Through Reforms and Advocacy (48:24) Overcoming Rejection in Nonprofits Gretchen Carlson is a journalist, author, and women’s rights advocate. As the co-founder of Lift Our Voices, a nonprofit combating forced arbitration and toxic workplace environments, her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes, including the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act. The bestselling author of Getting Real and Be Fierce, Gretchen was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2017. Connect with Gretchen: Gretchen’s Website: gretchencarlson.com Gretchen’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gretchen-carlson Resources Mentioned: Gretchen’s Book, Getting Real: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Real-Gretchen-Carlson/dp/0143109243 Gretchen’s Book, Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Fierce-Stop-Harassment-Power/dp/1478992174 Lift Our Voices: liftourvoices.org Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    54 mins
  • From $500 Startup to Open Source Pioneer: How Tim O’Reilly Built a Media and Tech Legacy | E109

    From $500 Startup to Open Source Pioneer: How Tim O’Reilly Built a Media and Tech Legacy | E109
    May 29 2025
    Tim O'Reilly’s entrepreneurial journey began with odd jobs like being a janitor, cemetery caretaker, and dishwasher. With just $500, he founded O'Reilly Media, initially focusing on publishing tech manuals. After a major setback during the dot-com bust, which saw revenue drop by $20 million, Tim continued building his business and creating a huge impact in the tech world. His work with Web 2.0 and open-source technologies like Linux and Perl helped position O'Reilly Media as a key player in the internet’s evolution. In this episode, Tim shares how he built O'Reilly Media from the ground up, navigated industry shifts, and why focusing on value is essential for long-term business success. Tim O'Reilly is an entrepreneur, author, and the founder of O'Reilly Media, a leading tech publishing company known for its groundbreaking books, conferences, and online learning platforms. In this episode, Ilana and Tim will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (02:29) Growing Up with Poor Vision and a Love for Books (03:53) Building O'Reilly Media with Just $500 (07:07) Leadership Lessons from the Dot-Com Crash (11:32) How Web 2.0 and Open Source Transformed the Web (19:27) The Problem with Silicon Valley’s Business Model (26:15) Scaling a Business with Limited Resources (31:11) AI and the Future of Programming (35:11) Tim’s Key Lessons in Entrepreneurship (37:47) Why Every Business Should Prioritize Value Tim O'Reilly is an entrepreneur, author, and the founder of O'Reilly Media, a leading tech publishing company known for its groundbreaking books, conferences, and online learning platforms. A key figure in the evolution of the internet, Tim played a major role in popularizing tech concepts such as open-source software and Web 2.0. He has been a strong advocate for ethical technology and continues to explore the future of AI, programming, and innovation. Connect with Tim: Tim’s Website: oreilly.com Tim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/timo3 Resources Mentioned: The Whole Internet User's Guide & Catalog by Ed Krol: https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Internet-Users-Guide-Catalog/dp/1565920635 Sailing Alone Around the World by Joshua Slocum: https://www.amazon.com/Sailing-Alone-Around-Joshua-Slocum/dp/0486203263 Dune Mass Market by Frank Herbert: https://www.amazon.com/Dune-Frank-Herbert/dp/0441172717 The Golden Warrior, the Story of Harold and William, a Novel of the Norman Conquest by Hope Muntz: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Warrior-Harold-William-Conquest/dp/B001DA6IKC Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    41 mins
  • Breaking the Glass Ceiling: How Adva Amir Became One of the Few Female Airline Captains | E108

    Breaking the Glass Ceiling: How Adva Amir Became One of the Few Female Airline Captains | E108
    May 27 2025
    As a curious eight-year-old, Adva Amir was mesmerized by the cockpit during a family trip, sparking a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. After failing to become a military pilot in Israel, Adva felt broken. Shifting her mindset and picking up the pieces, she moved to the U.S. to pursue civilian flight training. Despite language barriers, naysayers, and grueling hours, she broke into this male-dominated field and became one of the few female airline captains in the world. In this episode, Adva joins Ilana to share insights on chasing your dream, even when the odds are stacked against you. Adva Amir is a commercial airline pilot, TEDx speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice. Recognized by the National Business Aviation Association as one of the top 40 most influential people in aviation, Adva actively advocates for diversity and inclusion while mentoring aspiring pilots. In this episode, Ilana and Adva will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:54) Her Childhood Fascination with Flying (03:16) Failing to Become a Military Pilot (05:51) Leading a Military Unit at 19 Years Old (07:15) Moving to the U.S. for Flight Training (12:06) The Challenging Path to Becoming a Pilot (17:15) Landing First Airline Job Amid COVID-19 (20:11) Breaking Barriers and Expectations in Aviation (23:06) Adva’s Viral LinkedIn Post Inspiring Millions (26:50) Adjusting to Long-Haul Flights with Hawaiian Airlines (30:34) Discovering a Passion for Surfing (36:54) Competing in the Maccabiah Games (39:01) Pursuing Dreams Despite Naysayers Adva Amir is a commercial airline pilot, TEDx speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice. While at SkyWest Airlines, she became one of the few female airline captains, breaking barriers and inspiring others. Currently at Hawaiian Airlines, she flies long-haul routes as a First Officer. Recognized by the National Business Aviation Association as one of the top 40 most influential people in aviation, Adva actively advocates for diversity and inclusion while mentoring aspiring pilots. Connect with Adva: Adva’s Website: advamir.com Adva’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adva-amir-3bb2a6136 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    51 mins
  • From School Teacher to Fitness Icon: What I Wish I Knew Before Quitting My Job | Brian Keane | E107

    From School Teacher to Fitness Icon: What I Wish I Knew Before Quitting My Job | Brian Keane | E107
    May 22 2025
    Brian Keane’s journey is a powerful example of embracing change and conquering fear. Originally a primary school teacher in London, Brian realized teaching wasn’t his true calling and made a bold leap into fitness, despite doubts from family and peers. With his mom’s support, he overcame numerous challenges to become a three-time bestselling author, certified strength and conditioning coach, and ultra-marathon runner. In this episode, Brian joins Ilana to share how he tackled fear, turned his career around, and undertook the most daring endurance challenges, including running through the Sahara Desert and the Arctic. Brian Keane is a bestselling author, online fitness coach, and nutritionist. He is the founder of Brian Keane Fitness, where he helps clients transform their bodies and mindset for the long term, and the host of The Brian Keane Podcast, one of Ireland and the UK’s top health podcasts. In this episode, Ilana and Brian will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (02:02) From Teaching to Full-Time Fitness (09:17) Crushing the Fear of Failure in Career Transitions (12:31) Navigating Burnout While Building a Fitness Career (18:22) Balancing Passion with Business Skills (23:40) The Power of Mindset in Achieving Success (30:57) The Framework for Building Sustainable Habits (35:39) How to Overcome Comparison and Stay Focused (43:12) Tackling Ultra Marathons and Extreme Challenges (52:00) Learning from Setbacks and Building Resilience (1:00:00) Embracing Change and Taking Action Brian Keane is a bestselling author, online fitness coach, and nutritionist. He is the founder of Brian Keane Fitness, where he helps clients transform their bodies and mindset for the long term, and the host of The Brian Keane Podcast, one of Ireland and the UK’s top health podcasts. As an ultra-endurance athlete, Brian has completed several challenging races, including six back-to-back marathons through the Sahara Desert, a 230 km race through the Arctic Circle, and has also led an expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Connect with Brian: Brian’s Website: briankeanefitness.com Brian’s Instagram: instagram.com/brian_keane_fitness Resources Mentioned: Brian’s Book, The Fitness Mindset: Eat for Energy, Train for Tension, Manage Your Mindset, Reap the Results: https://www.amazon.com/Fitness-Mindset-tension-mindset-results/dp/1781332525 Brian’s Book, Rewriting Your Story: Seven Habits to Help You Reclaim Your Power, Let Go of Fear, and Change the Narratives That Hold You Back: https://www.amazon.co.uk/REWRITING-YOUR-STORY-RECLAIM-NARRATIVES/dp/B0DWB1ZSL3 Brian’s Book, Rewire Your Mindset: Own Your Thinking, Control Your Actions, Change Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Rewire-Your-Mindset-Thinking-Control/dp/1781334234 The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business Paperback by Charles Duhigg: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Tony Khan: Building AEW into a Billion-Dollar Brand and Competing with Wrestling Giants | E106

    Tony Khan: Building AEW into a Billion-Dollar Brand and Competing with Wrestling Giants | E106
    May 20 2025
    Tony Khan was captivated by sports and wrestling from a young age. After immersing himself in sports analytics, he joined his father’s ventures, using his expertise to build a data-driven team at the Jacksonville Jaguars. Witnessing Fulham’s struggles, Tony saw an opportunity to apply his skills to improve the team and took it. His passion for wrestling ultimately led him to launch All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Despite initial skepticism, Tony’s vision and perseverance allowed AEW to thrive, becoming a major disruptor in the wrestling world. In this episode, Tony joins Ilana to share the power of taking bold actions and seizing opportunities. Tony Khan is the founder, president, and CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a leading professional wrestling promotion. He also holds executive roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and Fulham F.C. in the English Premier League. In this episode, Ilana and Tony will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:56) His Early Passion for Sports and Wrestling (04:52) Shifting from Engineering to Finance (08:35) Building a Data-Driven Sports Team at the Jaguars (14:24) Overcoming Setbacks at Fulham FC (18:41) The Birth of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) (22:22) Earning Trust and Disrupting the Wrestling World (28:55) Navigating AEW Through the Pandemic (35:53) Acquiring Ring of Honor to Preserve Its Legacy (38:21) Honoring Wrestling Legends and Their Impact (41:10) Thriving in a Highly Competitive Industry (43:03) The Key to Breaking into Media and Entertainment (46:36) Making the Most of Opportunities in Life Tony Khan is the founder, president, and CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a leading professional wrestling promotion. He also holds executive roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and Fulham F.C. in the English Premier League. With a background in finance and sports analytics, Tony has revolutionized the business of sports entertainment, positioning AEW as a major competitor to WWE. He was awarded "Promoter of the Year" and "Best Booker" by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter for three consecutive years. Connect with Tony: Tony’s Instagram: instagram.com/tonyrkhan Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
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    51 mins