Mick Unplugged

My wife and family are special, and I want the world to see how special they are. Entrepreneur David Grutman, co-owner of Groot Hospitality, shares how to build a lasting legacy and why nurturing relationships is key to success. He explains why focusing on intellectual property and an exit strategy, even if you never plan to sell, are critical for any business leader. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The critical importance of building an ecosystem around your business - How David Grutman uses AI in his hospitality ventures - Why your intellectual property and name are everything - The one thing David is

You don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation. This Memorial Day episode features reflections from figures like Chef Robert Irvine and Michelle Mace-Curren on military service and leadership. Delve into the deep driving forces behind dedication and self-sacrifice, exploring the critical role of preparation in overcoming impossible challenges. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - Chef Robert Irvine's mission to help those lost - The reason behind a 30-year Air Force veteran's call for help - Why micromanaging doesn't constitute leadership - 4 principles for building strong, l

The story will keep you there. This Mick Unplugged episode features JEFRË, a Public Artist and Creative Director. He explores how pivotal life experiences and a singular vision shaped his career, leading him to create monumental public art around the globe. Discover JEFRË’s journey from urban designer to iconic artist. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - JEFRË's journey after a 35-year-old heart attack - How to become a brand-collaborating artist - The significance behind "Victor" in the Philippines - Why brands seek creative leaders like JEFRË - Developing art from community insights QUOTES THAT HIT "T

Haley Sacks — better known as Mrs. Dow Jones — is the financial educator helping millions of people stop being weird about money and start building real wealth. Named Creator of the Year by Adweek, featured on Fortune's 40 Under 40, and dubbed by The Wall Street Journal as “the financial guru millennials listen to,” Haley has built a movement around making personal finance feel less like punishment and more like power. She's also the author of the brand-new book Future Rich Person: The New Rules for Building Wealth — a modernized, judgment-free playbook for anyone who's tired of the old advice

Rickey Smiley is a nationally beloved stand-up comedian, award-winning syndicated radio host, television personality, bestselling author, and one of the most authentic voices in entertainment today. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Rickey first captured America’s attention through his legendary prank phone calls and breakout performances on BET’s Comic View before building a media empire that includes The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, heard in over 70 cities nationwide. A two-time Marconi Award winner, Rickey has starred in multiple television series and specials, including his critically

Jeremy Guthrie is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who commanded the mound for over a decade with the Cleveland Indians, Baltimore Orioles, Colorado Rockies, and Kansas City Royals. A Stanford graduate and former BYU standout, Jeremy was an American League Rookie of the Year candidate in 2007, represented Team USA in the 2009 World Baseball Classic, and started Games 3 and 7 of the 2014 World Series before earning a World Series ring in 2015. Off the field, Jeremy serves as an MLB Commissioner’s Ambassador, traveling to over 60 countries across six continents to grow the game globally. H

Aneesh Raman is LinkedIn’s Chief Economic Opportunity Officer, where he works with leaders across societies and sectors to shape the global response to the historic changes hitting work. A former CNN war correspondent and presidential speechwriter for Barack Obama, Aneesh has spent his career at the intersection of storytelling, economic policy, and human potential. He previously served as Senior Advisor on economic strategy to the State of California and led economic impact initiatives at Facebook. Alongside LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky, Aneesh co-authored the groundbreaking book “Open to Work

Jason Wild is a globally recognized innovation strategist and co-author of the groundbreaking book “Genius at Scale: How Great Leaders Drive Innovation,” written alongside Dr. Linda A. Hill of Harvard Business School and Emily Tedards. A former child actor turned business leader, Jason has shaped innovation strategy for some of the world’s most iconic brands—including Microsoft, Salesforce, and IBM—while advising CEOs across six continents. As the former Global Vice President of CEO Co-Innovation and Customer Engagement at Microsoft, Jason brings a rare blend of practitioner experience and tho

Alanna Taylor is a visionary leader and strategic architect who has spent three decades transforming bold ideas into fundable realities. With a staggering 60% plus grant win rate and over a million dollars raised annually for her clients, she is a nationally respected expert in program design, funding, and sustainable growth for mission-driven organizations. As the founder of Granted Success, Inc., Alanna specializes in grant writing, fractional executive director services, and her signature Grant-Ready Elevation Audit—a powerful diagnostic tool that evaluates a nonprofit’s win-ability across

Boomer Anderson is not your typical health guru—he’s a former investment banker turned health optimization pioneer who got the wake-up call of a lifetime when he was diagnosed with cardiovascular disease at just 30 years old. Instead of accepting the standard “take a pill and come back in ten years” approach, Boomer went all-in on understanding what true health actually means. Today he’s the CEO of Troscriptions, building science-backed solutions for stress, sleep, focus, and immune function, and the driving force behind Health Optimization Medicine and Practice (HOMe HOPe), a nonprofit that t

Bruce Bruce is an entertainment legend, a master of comedic timing whose sharp wit and improvisational brilliance have captivated audiences for decades across stand-up, television, and film. With a new Netflix special "I Ain't Playing" that has audiences roaring from start to finish, he redefines longevity and authenticity in the comedy game, building a career on delivering big laughs infused with relatable human insights. A true "goat" of comedy, Bruce Bruce consistently draws sold-out crowds with fresh material and an unwavering dedication to his craft, proving that genuine connection and hu

Nir Eyal is not just an author; he’s a behavioral architect, a master decoder of the invisible forces that drive human action and inaction. A former Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer who co-founded and sold tech companies before transitioning into writing and teaching, Nir’s brilliance lies in his rare ability to bridge psychology, technology, and business into frameworks that fundamentally change how leaders think, operate, and perform. With bestselling books like Hooked, Indistractable, and the upcoming Beyond Belief, Nir delivers the kind of substance that makes you stop, think,

Morgan Housel is not just an author; he's a financial philosopher, an alchemist of understanding who transforms complex financial concepts into relatable human narratives. With a staggering 11 million books sold worldwide and translations into over 60 languages, Morgan's brilliance lies in his unique ability to unpack the intricate dance between human behavior and financial success, offering unparalleled insights that resonate deeply with business leaders and entrepreneurs alike. Takeaways: The Power of Storytelling in Finance: Housel emphasizes that effective financial communication lies i

Chef Kwame Onwuachi is a revolutionary culinary artist, an award-winning author, and a visionary restaurateur who is boldly redefining the landscape of modern American cuisine with a global perspective rooted in his Nigerian, Caribbean, and Creole heritage. From launching a catering company from the trunk of his car to earning a James Beard Award and opening nationally celebrated restaurants like Tatiana and the upcoming Maroon, Kwame is an unstoppable force constantly pushing boundaries and elevating Black foodways on the global stage. Takeaways: Leaving a Place Better Than You Found It: H

Allyson Felix, a name synonymous with unparalleled achievement and groundbreaking advocacy, joins Mick Unplugged to share her remarkable journey. From shattering Olympic records and redefining what it means to be a champion athlete to becoming a fierce advocate for maternal rights and an innovative entrepreneur with her brand, Saysh, Allyson's story is one of unwavering resilience, profound purpose, and inspiring leadership. She delves into the core values that have guided her through athletic triumphs and personal challenges, demonstrating how faith, integrity, and a commitment to impact have

Ron "Boss" Everline is not just a trainer; he's a true titan of transformation, a visionary whose profound impact sweeps across elite performance and entrepreneurial mastery. Forging an empire born of unwavering discipline and a relentless pursuit of excellence, he has become a beacon of inspiration, pushing countless individuals—from celebrity clients to everyday aspirants—to unlock their ultimate potential. His philosophy transcends physical training, encapsulating a holistic approach to life, mindset, and unwavering commitment, proving that true power comes from within. Takeaways: The Ar

Earthquake, born Nathaniel Stroman, is a phenomenal force in comedy and entertainment, commanding stages worldwide for almost three decades with his sharp wit and profound storytelling. A multi-talented artist, his critically acclaimed Netflix special "Chappelle's Home Team - Earthquake: Legendary" solidified his status as a comedic icon, earning accolades from the New York Times. Beyond the spotlight, Earthquake exemplifies entrepreneurial vision, having successfully owned and operated multiple comedy clubs, and he consistently uses his platform to uplift and mentor emerging talent, proving t

Practice Makes Permanent: Transforming Leaders with Dr. Anthony Randall Dr. Anthony Randall isn't just a leader; he's a seismic force in personal and organizational transformation. An international award-winning author, combat veteran, West Point graduate, and martial arts master with black belts in three disciplines, Dr. Randall redefines excellence. As the President and Founder of Vanguard XXI, he masterfully coaches leaders across Fortune 100/500 companies, U.S. military special operations, Major League Baseball, and more, inspiring them to align passion, purpose, and precision. He's a vi

Jade Warshaw is not just a financial expert; she's a force of nature revolutionizing how we understand and interact with our money. As the brilliant mind behind the game-changing book "What Nobody Tells You About Money," Jade demystifies the path to financial freedom with unmatched insight, realness, and a powerful commitment to transforming lives. Her journey from personal financial struggle to empowering countless others speaks to a profound belief that our stories are never just for ourselves, but meant to inspire a revolution in wealth management. Takeaways: Your Story is Never Just for

Jeff Tiegs is a remarkable force, a true luminary whose career spans 25 years of relentless service in counterterrorism and elite special operations, transitioning his unparalleled skills and unwavering dedication to combating sex trafficking with Skull Games. He's reshaping industries, unlocking groundbreaking strategies, and igniting the spirit of progress in the technological landscape, all while inspiring individuals to step into their heroic potential through compelling storytelling and profound insights. Takeaways: Unseen Vulnerabilities: Human trafficking exploits innate human needs

Annika Sorenstam is not just a golf legend but a visionary whose dedication shaped the game and whose philanthropic spirit, through the ANNIKA Foundation, is redefining excellence for the next generation of leaders in sports and beyond, offering a treasure trove of wisdom cultivated through years of unparalleled achievement. Takeaways: The Power of Preparation and Confidence: Annika emphasizes that thorough preparation is the antidote to shyness and nervousness, acting as a profound source of confidence that allows her to perform at her best and represent herself and her partners with excel

Iyanla Vanzant is a force of nature, a spiritual luminary whose profound wisdom and unwavering truth have ignited a revolution of healing and self-discovery in countless lives. With the depth of an ancient sage and the directness of a loving guide, she empowers individuals to shed the burdens of their past, reclaim their authentic power, and embark on a transformative journey towards emotional wellness and spiritual liberation. Her insights don't just touch the soul; they ignite it. Takeaways: The True Meaning of Forgiveness: Forgiveness is not primarily about absolving others, but a deeply

Today, we welcome a true titan of the baseball world, Jason Heyward, a World Series champion and multiple Gold Glove winner whose brilliance extends far beyond the diamond. Jason's impactful career is a masterclass in perseverance, strategic excellence, and leadership, inspiring millions through his dedication to teamwork, personal growth, and community engagement. He is a phenomenal athlete who has consistently demonstrated what it means to lead by example, making him an invaluable voice for leaders and entrepreneurs alike. Takeaways: Beyond the Field: True impact comes from what you do ou

CZ Lopez is a true force of nature, a visionary leader whose career spans groundbreaking work alongside culinary titan Robert Irvine and a dedicated mentorship transforming the lives of veterans. From humble beginnings that led him to find his purpose as an Air Force para-rescueman, CZ's journey of resilience, humility, and unwavering commitment has shaped him into an extraordinary voice in leadership, inspiring countless individuals to embrace accountability, proactively take charge, and make every second count. Takeaways: The Fluidity of "Because": Your core motivation, the "because" that

Kym Whitley is an unmissable force, a comedic genius who lights up every screen and stage she graces, balancing a thriving career, the intricate journey of personal transformation, and the deeply personal mission of motherhood. She's not just breaking stigmas; she's building bridges of understanding, inspiring millions with her candor, courage, and hilarious authenticity, making her a truly unforgettable voice for change and joy. Takeaways: Finding Your "Because": Your deepest purpose is often inherent, a natural gift meant to be shared, whether it's bringing laughter or fostering connectio

Bill Gurley is a titan of Silicon Valley, a visionary investor who has shaped the landscape of modern business with game-changing insights and investments in companies like Uber and Zillow. As a general partner at Benchmark, Gurley’s track record is undeniable, but it's his passion for unlocking human potential, articulated in his new book "Runnin' Down a Dream: How to Thrive in a Career You Actually Love," that truly sets him apart. Through his popular blog "Above the Crowd" and social media, he has consistently shared his wisdom, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers they genuine

From electrifying NFL fields to rewriting his own narrative with resilience, wisdom, and unapologetic truth, Adam "Pacman" Jones is more than an athlete—he's a force of nature. A dynamic leader who inspires redemption, responsibility, and real talk, Pacman brings his signature "go get it" mentality to every aspect of his life, proving that with unwavering dedication and a commitment to authenticity, you can redefine your legacy and empower those around you. Get ready to be inspired by a man who lives by the mantra: "work hard, play hard" and whose impact extends far beyond the gridiron. Take

Todd Rose is a visionary leader and brilliant mind reshaping our understanding of human potential and the future of leadership. From overcoming academic struggles to achieving a GED and multiple Harvard degrees, his journey is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of meaningful impact. With profound insights into individuality, success, and the power of authenticity, Todd challenges conventional thinking, inspiring us to embrace our unique "jaggedness" and build a world where true potential flourishes. Takeaways: The 'Because' - Deeper Than Your Why: Discovering your core, intrinsic mot

David Bach is a titan of financial wisdom, a true innovator who has revolutionized the way millions approach their wealth and legacy. With multiple New York Times bestsellers and a transformative speaking presence, he is an undeniable force in personal finance and business leadership whose insights are not just impactful, but truly paradigm-shifting. Join us as he unveils his "because," sharing how he empowers individuals to achieve financial freedom and live their richest lives, both now and in the future. Takeaways: The 'Because' of Financial Freedom: David reveals his purpose as helping

Ty Schmidt is a force of nature, a dynamic storyteller, and a branding guru who transforms individual narratives into powerful connections. With a background rooted in journalism and a deeply personal journey of overcoming adversity, Ty passionately empowers leaders and entrepreneurs to authentically build their brand by tapping into the heart of their story. Her mission extends beyond business, aiming to inspire growth, purpose, and impact, making her a beacon for anyone striving to live and lead with intention. Takeaways: Storytelling as Branding: Effective branding is fundamentally abo

Carla Hall, a true culinary phenomenon, transcends the kitchen to inspire with her profound emotional intelligence and unwavering authenticity. From her legendary status on Top Chef and Food Network to her empathetic role as "the judge of judges," Carla embodies a unique blend of warmth and wisdom. Her journey underscores the power of embracing one's true self, transforming every dish and interaction into an experience of joy, encouragement, and undeniable connection. Takeaways: The Power of Authenticity and Evolution: Carla Hall demonstrates that remaining true to oneself while constantly

Jay Paterno is a dynamic force, a leadership coach, change-maker, and author who is boldly redefining what legacy truly means. From the electrifying sidelines of Penn State to the challenging front lines of public service, he inspires leaders to act with unwavering courage, solid character, and genuine conviction. A true visionary, his insights cut through the noise, challenging conventional wisdom and sparking vital conversations nationwide about integrity, impact, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Takeaways: The Lawlessness of College Football: College football currently operates wi

Dr Eric Topol is a relentless pioneer, a visionary cardiologist, and a groundbreaking scientist who is not merely observing the future of health but actively building it. With a keen focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology and evidence-based science, he challenges the status quo in medicine, pushing for a radical shift from treatment to prevention. His work is reshaping our understanding of longevity, healthspan, and the profound impact of AI, offering a blueprint for a healthier, more informed tomorrow. Takeaways: The "Because" of Prevention: Dr. Topol’s deep-seated motivation stems fr

Larry Hagner is the voice behind The Dad Edge, a top-ranked podcast transforming the lives of millions of men into better husbands, fathers, and leaders. A man on a mission to create legendary legacies, Larry fearlessly turns vulnerability into strength, redefining what it means to lead at home and beyond with unwavering purpose and relentless empowerment. Takeaways: The "Because" - Your True North: Larry emphasizes that while "why" focuses on immediate motives, understanding your "but why" (your "because") reveals the deeper purpose driving your actions, like avoiding the "drift" or fulfill

Jason Feifer is the visionary Editor-in-Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine, a master storyteller, and a future-proof mindset architect who empowers business leaders to own their identity and thrive amidst constant change. With a dynamic presence across media and a unique ability to simplify complex ideas, Jason transforms challenges into opportunities, guiding entrepreneurs to build resilient businesses and lives they love. Takeaways: The Value of Ownership in Your Identity: A title is rented, but your unique voice, perspective, and the value you bring are what you truly own, providing stabilit

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another episode of Mick Unplugged! Today's guest is a visionary strategist, a powerhouse at the intersection of technology and global business, known for transforming brands and carving out new paths to success in dynamic markets. She's a brilliant communicator, an architect of influence, and a true leader in shaping narratives that resonate worldwide. Please join me in welcoming the insightful, the pioneering, the absolutely transformative... Maha Abouelenein! Takeaways: The "Because" Deeper Than Your Why: Maha's profound sense of purpose stems from her upb

Eddie Hartman is a tech visionary, scale architect, and entrepreneur renowned for co-founding LegalZoom, a company that revolutionized legal access for millions by bringing legal empowerment to the masses. With a track record of launching new ventures and mentoring the next generation of founders, Eddie is known for his relentless innovation and practical wisdom. As an author, he co-wrote "Monetizing Innovation" and "Scaling Innovation," essential reads for anyone serious about building sustainable businesses. His life's mission is to help others not just survive the challenges of entrepreneur

Isabelle Guarino is the CEO of RAL Academy and a pioneering force in transforming the assisted living industry. Inspired by personal experience and her father's legacy, Isabelle empowers others to profit with purpose by turning residential assisted living into a vehicle for wealth, impact, and dignity. Through her educational programs, bestselling books, and heartfelt mentorship, she helps entrepreneurs create compassionate care homes that honor seniors while giving families peace of mind and financial freedom. Takeaways: Residential assisted living offers a homelike, dignified alternative

Ernie Hudson is a Hollywood legend whose career has spanned over five decades, commanding screens in iconic roles from Ghostbusters to The Crow, and powerful television appearances in Oz and The Family Business. Beyond being a celebrated actor, Ernie is a storyteller, mentor, and survivor who has deeply impacted his community and the culture at large. Raised by his grandmother after losing his mother early in life, Ernie’s journey from Michigan theater stages to Hollywood is marked by unwavering faith, resilience, and a commitment to being an example of what’s possible—especially for the Afric

Ilana Golan is a transformative powerhouse with a career spanning elite engineering in the Air Force, founding and selling companies in Silicon Valley, and now empowering high achievers through Leap Academy. As an investor, TEDx speaker, and acclaimed podcast host, Ilana is dedicated to helping leaders and entrepreneurs reinvent themselves, discover their zone of genius, and leap forward with clarity and impact. Her mission is driven by a deep desire to help others avoid regret, build fulfilling careers, and continuously adapt in today's rapidly changing world. Takeaways: Reinvention is Essent

Joe McCarthy is a powerhouse branding strategist and entrepreneur renowned for his relentless approach and trailblazing results in the digital business world. As the brain behind rapidly scaling brands like Gem Social and Grow With Us Agency, Joe specializes in lead generation, crafting magnetic personal brands, and helping influencers and entrepreneurs scale their businesses. Known for his servant mindset and transparency, he takes pride in guiding others to find their voice, optimize their offers, and achieve profitable, sustainable growth online. With a proven track record and a client rost

Jordan Mendoza is a globally recognized expert in branding and business growth, celebrated for his resilience and trailblazing approach to overcoming adversity. Born to a diverse heritage, Jordan grew up learning lessons in perseverance from his mother, who was born with only one lung. Despite being voted "least likely to succeed" in high school, Jordan defied the odds and built a powerful personal brand, becoming a sought-after keynote speaker and LinkedIn powerhouse. He is the author of "The Life-Changing Power of Adversity," a book focused on turning struggles into opportunities and helping

Jennifer Ledwith, founder of ScholarReady, is a renowned educator and mentor based in Houston, Texas, celebrated for her relentless commitment to empowering students both academically and personally. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer specializes in helping students build confidence, attain educational freedom, and achieve college admission success—without the crushing burden of student debt. Through her innovative College Ready program, she works with students and families from as early as seventh grade, focusing on literacy, foundational skills, and practical strategies for long-term

Shawn French is a speaker, coach, and podcast host whose life and brand are built on resilience, discipline, and unyielding determination. Drawing from overcoming personal adversity and healing childhood wounds, he has transformed his journey into a mission to inspire and push others to stop negotiating with their greatness. Through his work, including the acclaimed "Determined Society" podcast and community, Shawn French empowers leaders and individuals to harness their pain, elevate their standards, and pursue their purpose with intention, discipline, and grit. Takeaways: Standards Over Goal

John Assaraf is a renowned entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, neuroscience expert, and founder of NeuroGym. With a career spanning over four decades, John has built multiple multi-million-dollar companies and dedicated his life to helping millions break through self-imposed limits. He is recognized for translating complex neuroscience into practical strategies for personal and professional growth, focusing on the power of identity, mindset, and the mechanics of the brain. John’s mission is to empower others to engineer success from the inside out and unlock their full potential.

Dara Ladjevardian is the innovative founder behind Delphi, the human-centric AI platform that's transforming how mentorship and knowledge are shared in the digital age. Growing up as the child of Iranian immigrants in Houston, Dara was deeply influenced by the resilience and work ethic of his family, particularly his grandfather—a prominent business leader who rebuilt his life from scratch in the US. After creating and selling his first AI startup in eight months, Dara was inspired by the desire to preserve and access his grandfather’s wisdom, ultimately leading him to build Delphi. Today, Dar

Raheel Siddiqui is a dynamic speaker, coach, and podcast host who embodies resilience and the power of personal transformation. Having lost over 200 pounds on his journey from being overweight and bullied to becoming a beacon of inspiration, Raheel uses his story to empower others to break through barriers—whether those walls are physical, mental, or emotional. Fueled by the memory and lessons of his late father and driven by a passion to help others rise from rock bottom, Raheel now shares his insights via his own Wall Breaker 200 podcast, TEDx stages, and coaching sessions. He brings unmatch

Jesse Cole, famously known as the man in the yellow tux, is a master of reinvention, joy, and building unforgettable fan experiences. As the owner of the Savannah Bananas, Jesse has transformed a struggling baseball club into a global phenomenon by shattering norms and prioritizing fun above all else. Driven by a deep belief in bringing people together and creating moments of joy, he’s become a leading business thinker, author, and inspiring mentor dedicated to showing leaders how to turn customers into raving fans. With innovation at his core, Jesse's contagious energy and commitment to doing

Steve Smith is a legendary former NFL wide receiver, celebrated for his tenacity, intelligence, and relentless drive both on and off the field. From humble beginnings as a “poor black kid who was unsubsidized,” Steve carved out an extraordinary football career with a no-“plan B” mindset, earning admiration as a future Hall of Famer and an inspirational community leader. Post-retirement, Steve has channeled that same passion into business, media, and philanthropy—especially his work in mental health with Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUCK). Known for his authenticity, leadership, and fiercely

Ed McCaffrey is a three-time Super Bowl champion and Stanford Cardinal legend who’s just as celebrated for his work off the field as he is for his NFL career. Known for his humility and quiet strength during his playing days, Ed has since become renowned for his philanthropy, founding and running football camps for athletes with Down syndrome and children from military families. He now leads McCaffrey Brands, delivering premium food products and healthy snacks nationwide, all while remaining committed to using his platform to make a positive impact. Whether inspiring the next generation or cre