The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I sit down with Jack Canfield, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series and author of The Success Principles, to discuss intention, persistence, and lifelong impact. Jack shares how teaching struggling students introduced him to goal-setting, visualization, affirmations, action, and feedback. We talk about overcoming 143 publishing rejections, creating demand before Chicken Soup for the Soul had a publisher, and using unconventional marketing to reach readers everywhere. Jack also explains why authors must promote their work consistently, how inspiration differs from external motivation, and why continued learning keeps purpose alive through every season of li...

In today’s episode, I share six lessons for turning problems into possibilities by creating clarity, removing interference, and focusing on what actually moves the needle. I explain how questioning assumptions, staying curious, learning from others, and testing and adjusting your approach can help you find what works. Most importantly, I share why letting go of the need to be right or in control allows you to move forward with greater clarity, faith, and purpose.

To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

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In today’s episode, I sit down with Genetic Lifespan founder and CEO Adam Vincent Gilmer and Tony Drexel Smith, managing director of Micro Venture Capital Fund and managing member of The Stirling Club. We discuss why character, integrity, loyalty, faith, and keeping your word remain essential as technology accelerates business. Tony explains why simplicity, patience, and knowing when to pivot help entrepreneurs survive difficult seasons. Adam shares how personal faith, steady growth, and becoming qualified for opportunity shape lasting success. We also discuss learning from failure, resisting the demand for immediate results, building meaningful relationships, and using genetic te...

In today’s episode, I sit down with world champion skimboarder and Marshwater founder Austin Keen to discuss the consistency, patience, and intuition behind his success. Austin shares how his blue collar upbringing shaped his work ethic, why mastering any craft requires a willingness to endure setbacks, and how he turned a connection to the Southern marshlands into a growing business. We also talk about building freedom without becoming controlled by money, surrounding yourself with good people, and trusting the timing of your journey. Austin’s story shows how authenticity, persistence, and surrender can create opportunities across athletics, entrepreneurship, and...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Barry Oberholzer, an entrepreneur, former intelligence operative, licensed helicopter pilot, and host of The Flying Felon. Barry shares how his experience in prison inspired him to build a platform centered on redemption, accountability, and the lessons found in failure. We discuss how interviewing celebrities in a helicopter encourages vulnerability, helping guests confront fear and speak openly about addiction, financial loss, injury, faith, and recovery. Barry also reflects on the common qualities he has observed among people who successfully rebuild their lives, including accepting responsibility, finding strength through faith, and developing the de...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Brian Rose, an American-British podcaster, political candidate, former banker, and founder of London Real. Brian shares why he walked away from a lucrative banking career to build a media company before podcasting and personal brands became mainstream. We discuss overcoming the fear of other people’s opinions, improving through consistent action, and creating lasting relationships through long-form conversations. Brian also explains why engaged communities matter more than impressive follower counts, how charging customers increases commitment, and why media becomes more valuable when connected to a meaningful product ecosystem. He also shares less...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dave Portnoy, the American businessman behind Barstool Sports, to talk about building a media company from the ground up. Dave shares how he left a stable sales career, launched Barstool as a free newspaper, and handled nearly every part of the business himself. We discuss hard work, timing, audience loyalty, brand voice, scaling without losing identity, and why criticism can sometimes strengthen a community. Dave also explains how organic ideas, fast reactions, and a willingness to keep experimenting helped Barstool grow from a local publication into a major media brand with a...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Joe Hart, President and CEO of Dale Carnegie and coauthor of Take Command, to discuss intentionality, relationships, resilience, and transformational leadership. Joe explains why taking command begins with creating space to consider what we want, what is working, and what needs to change. We talk about strengthening relationships by accepting responsibility for our role, listening with genuine interest, and seeing situations from another person’s perspective. Joe also shares how controlling our thoughts helped Dale Carnegie navigate the pandemic, why confidence unlocks new capabilities, and how effective leaders help others recognize and...

In today’s episode, I share six lessons to help you accelerate your potential by choosing action over indecision, abundance over scarcity, and purpose over pain. I explain how to turn the fear of other people’s opinions into joy, control the meaning you give to your experiences, and move through fear, doubt, and uncertainty. Most importantly, I share how consistent, non-negotiable behaviors aligned with your divine direction can help you pursue your potential every day and create the life you’re meant to live.

To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltz...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS and ENOUGH, host of No Magic Pill, and co-founder of Morning Water and Moovlab. Blake shares how TOMS grew from a simple idea into a global giving movement, then opens up about the depression and isolation he experienced after selling the company. We discuss the achievement myth, separating self-worth from external success, and the simple practices that helped him rebuild his mental health. Blake also explains how that healing restored his entrepreneurial creativity, leading him to launch new ventures, mentor young founders, and embrace his next ch...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Kishore Lulla, founder and chairman of Eros Innovation, to discuss how culture, ethics, and human experience can shape the next era of artificial intelligence. Kishore explains why AI should be viewed as an assistant that expands human potential, rather than a replacement for human judgment. We explore sovereign AI, culturally trained models, and the responsibility entrepreneurs have to pair innovation with righteousness. Kishore also shares his perspective on fear, faith, creative destruction, and the challenges that define personal growth. Our conversation connects technological progress with timeless lessons about purpose, resilience, self-awareness, an...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Leonardo Leao, CEO of Leao Group, to discuss global mobility, self-image, and the freedom created by expanding beyond familiar borders. Leonardo shares how leaving a stable career in Brazil reshaped his understanding of opportunity and inspired his work helping others build lives across multiple countries. We talk about aligning immigration, taxes, education, career, and quality of life through a holistic strategy. Leonardo also explains why preparing children to understand different cultures can create more capable global citizens. Our conversation shows how international experience can broaden personal freedom, strengthen opportunity, and encourage gr...

In today’s episode, I sit down with tax strategist, author, and entrepreneur Courtney Epps, founder of OTB Tax and Tax Rebels, to talk about building lasting wealth through smart tax planning, business ownership, and real estate investing. We discuss practical strategies like hiring your children, using short term rental tax benefits, and creating generational wealth by working within the tax code. Courtney also shares how AI is transforming her firm by improving efficiency while creating a more personal client experience. Along the way, we talk about customer service, mindset, faith, resilience, and why technology should give people more ti...

In today’s episode, I sit down with former NBA players Tarik Black and CJ Miles to discuss storytelling, authenticity, mentorship, and the transition from professional basketball into new pursuits. CJ explains why the best storytellers must live the story first and how years on the court shaped his creative work as a writer and photographer. Tarik shares lessons from Kobe Bryant, including how purpose, passion, and strong mentors can guide the next chapter. We also talk about the humility required to become a beginner again, the value of integrity in business, and how curiosity transforms fear, challenges old as...

In today’s episode, I sit down with entrepreneur, bestselling author, and real estate industry leader Ryan Serhant to talk about building a career by pursuing success instead of clinging to a single path. Ryan shares how adapting to new opportunities helped him grow from aspiring actor to leading one of the most recognizable real estate brands in the world. We also discuss why social media has become essential business infrastructure, how disciplined time management creates repeatable success, and what his thousand-minute rule looks like in practice. Ryan also offers his perspective on today’s housing market, industry consolidation, and...

In today’s episode, I break down the difference between being nice and being kind, and why choosing truth over approval can transform the way we lead and communicate. I share how to serve others through honest conversations, set boundaries with confidence, and use empathy, accountability, and courage to create better outcomes for everyone.

To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

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In today’s episode, I sit down with Pro Football Hall of Famer Ray Lewis to discuss the principles that guide his life beyond the field. Ray shares how faith, kindness, and service shaped him from childhood and continue to define his approach to leadership. We talk about beginning each morning with prayer, refusing to let critics dictate your identity, and surrounding yourself with people who elevate your thinking. Ray also explains why true leaders create more leaders, how openly sharing mistakes can help others avoid them, and why changing even one life carries greater value than money, recognition, or...

In today’s episode, I join Rebecca Whitman, magnetic abundance mentor, keynote speaker, and host of the globally ranked Balanced, Beautiful & Abundant podcast, for a conversation about building success without sacrificing your values. We discuss why long-term relationships matter more than short-term wins, how to recognize toxic business partnerships, and why kindness remains a competitive advantage. I also share lessons on overcoming the fear of rejection, asking for help with confidence, practicing gratitude and forgiveness, and managing the ego when emotions take over. Along the way, I explain how simple daily habits can create lasting happiness, stronger relationships, and a...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Canadian author and personal development pioneer Bob Proctor to talk about the mindset shifts that transformed his life. Bob shares how a single mentor, a copy of Think and Grow Rich, and a commitment to repetition helped him go from struggling financially to building a multimillion dollar business. We discuss the power of belief, why paradigms shape our behavior, the difference between gathering information and true education, and how changing the way we think changes the results we create. Bob also reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave by helping ot...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Blaine Bartlett to discuss the danger of measuring the wrong things in business and leadership. We break down why revenue, quarterly performance, and dashboards only tell part of the story, while trust, engagement, loyalty, culture, and communication shape long-term success. Blaine explains the difference between leading and lagging indicators, the value of measuring fulfillment, and why strong relationships remain one of an organization’s greatest invisible assets. We also discuss how the right metrics influence behavior, build customer loyalty, strengthen employee retention, and help leaders develop great people before chasing better numb...

In today’s episode, I sit down with FUBU founder, Shark Tank investor, and business executive Daymond John to discuss the value of building a personal brand rooted in wisdom, service, and humility. Daymond explains why adding value to others creates lasting opportunities and how leaders can use their unique perspective to stand out in a world where information is readily available. We also discuss the growing responsibility CEOs have to build visible, credible platforms that protect their reputations, teams, and businesses. Daymond shares why empowering others, remaining curious, and making people feel important are essential to creating trust, in...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Pro Football Hall of Famer Nick Lowery, one of the most accomplished kickers in NFL history, to talk about the mindset that helped him overcome rejection, pressure, and adversity at the highest level. Nick shares why getting cut by 11 teams became the foundation for his success, how persistence creates confidence, and why mistakes are opportunities instead of setbacks. We also discuss the importance of mentors, sustaining success after reaching the top, and the mental health challenges facing athletes, students, and veterans. This conversation is a reminder that resilience is built through co...

In today’s episode, I break down the five expenditures that determine your business's success and why emotional expenditure is the one most leaders overlook. I share how mastering your emotions, making intentional decisions, and using my Cancel, Clear, Connect framework can help you eliminate hidden costs, create greater value, and build a business aligned with your purpose.

To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ryan Serhant, founder and CEO of SERHANT, to talk about the mindset behind building a successful career, brand, and business. We discuss how manual labor shaped his work ethic, why empathy creates stronger client relationships, and how rejection can become one of your greatest competitive advantages. Ryan shares his approach to handling difficult negotiations, managing expectations, and helping clients make decisions with a long-term perspective instead of reacting emotionally. We also explore personal branding, creating value before making a sale, and why keeping your identity aligned with your profession can open do...

In today’s episode, I sit down with former NBA player and Viola founder Al Harrington to talk about the mindset behind building a lasting career long after the final buzzer. Al shares how the same discipline, consistency, and passion that fueled his 16 seasons in the NBA now shape his approach to entrepreneurship, leadership, and health. We discuss learning from setbacks instead of fearing them, leading by example, balancing business with family, raising purpose-driven kids, and why generational health matters just as much as generational wealth. It’s a conversation about staying humble, embracing the process, and continuing to grow...

In today’s episode, I sit down with basketball legend Sue Bird, one of the most accomplished players in the history of the game, to talk about the mindset behind sustained success. We discuss how family expectations shaped her work ethic, why winning becomes an addiction built on daily habits, and the balance between individual achievement and putting the team first. Sue also shares her perspective on authenticity, the confidence that comes from living openly, and how her definition of legacy has evolved from collecting championships to mentoring the next generation of players. It’s a conversation about excellence, purp...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ronnie 2K, the longtime face of the NBA 2K franchise, entrepreneur, and owner of LEVEL San Francisco, to talk about the story behind his documentary, The Most Hated Man in Gaming. Ronnie shares how growing up as the son of immigrant parents, facing discrimination, and finding confidence through basketball and gaming shaped his perspective on success and criticism. We also discuss building a personal brand, handling online negativity, the responsibility that comes with influence, balancing a fast-moving career with fatherhood, and why authenticity, resilience, and community matter more than public opinion.

In today’s episode, I sit down with former FBI hostage negotiator, bestselling author of Never Split the Difference, and CEO of The Black Swan Group, Chris Voss, for a conversation about why empathy is one of the most powerful tools in negotiation. We talk about making people feel heard, the neuroscience behind trust, and how listening can lead to better outcomes without compromising your position. Chris also shares practical advice for navigating high-pressure conversations, long-term business relationships, and moments of impasse by focusing on understanding before persuasion. It’s a fresh perspective on communication that applies just as much...

In today’s episode, I sit down with biohacking pioneer Dave Asprey to talk about the future of longevity, health, and human performance. We discuss why personalized health plans powered by AI are replacing one size fits all advice, how to identify the right biomarkers based on your goals, and why nutrition should come before advanced interventions like peptides. Dave also explains the role of functional medicine, the importance of mental resilience, and how meditation can improve leadership and decision making. Our conversation brings together practical strategies for building a healthier body, a sharper mind, and a more intentional li...

In this episode, I talk about turning the ideas that resonate with us into daily behaviors that create lasting change. I discuss why God won’t give you an invitation without knowing your limitations, how devotion goes beyond discipline, and why redefining your past can help you move toward where you want to be or better. I also talk about letting life happen without giving up action, creating more ease through recovery, and using productivity, accessibility, and gratitude as lenses for living. When we stay aligned with our divine direction and clear the interference, we create more freedom, opportunities, an...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Anthony Raimo, the 25-year-old entrepreneur behind Trident Corporate Housing and Raimo Renovations, to talk about building a scalable real estate business by serving traveling professionals across the country. We discuss why corporate housing offers a unique opportunity, how rental arbitrage creates growth without requiring property ownership, and why consistent marketing through email, LinkedIn, and social media outperforms chasing overnight success. Anthony also shares how embracing failure accelerated his learning, and how a growing foundation of faith and gratitude transformed his mindset, helping him navigate uncertainty with greater confidence, discipline, and purpose.

In today’s episode, I sit down with entrepreneur, business strategist, and podcast host Adam Strong to talk about what it really takes to build a successful business without tying your identity to the outcome. We explore why surrender is often misunderstood, how non-negotiable daily habits create lasting progress, and the difference between discipline and devotion. I also share the personal story of losing everything, including my mom’s home, and the perspective that transformed the way I approach business, faith, and service. Along the way, we discuss scaling without losing yourself, overcoming hustle culture, and finding peace through cons...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Daniel Diaz, CEO and Founder of F3 Technologies, to talk about building a business through resilience, leadership, and relentless work ethic. Daniel shares how an unconventional career path, from bartending to healthcare IT and entrepreneurship, shaped his approach to feedback, mentorship, and company culture. We discuss why surrounding yourself with people who keep growing matters, how calm leadership creates better outcomes during high-pressure moments, and why service remains a competitive advantage in a rapidly changing technology landscape. Daniel also explains why he embraces setbacks, invests heavily in training, and believes no on...

In today’s episode, I talk about what really separates ambition from achievement, and why success is built through systems instead of occasional bursts of effort. Alongside Blaine Bartlett, I explore the power of having a clear purpose, creating structure that supports consistent execution, and staying connected to inspiration rather than waiting for motivation. We also discuss how your environment shapes your thinking, why persistence is an act of devotion, and how small daily actions compound into extraordinary results over time. Real progress comes from aligning your thoughts, behaviors, and habits with where you want to be, then showing up...

In today’s episode, I sit down with former UFC star and professional boxer Jorge Masvidal, founder of Game Bred Fighting Championships, to talk about what it takes to stay hungry after success. We discuss the mindset that carried him through a long fighting career, the health habits he wishes he had embraced earlier, and the emotional reality of walking away from competition. Jorge also shares why family, faith, and purpose have always driven him more than money, how he found a new mission as a promoter, and the unforgettable story of surprising his father with a classic Shelby Mu...

In today’s episode, I sit down with legendary writer, producer, and animation pioneer John Semper, whose work has shaped generations through projects including Spider Man The Animated Series, The Smurfs, Fraggle Rock, and more. We talk about why memorable stories begin with relatable characters rather than spectacle, how fear and personal growth drive meaningful storytelling, and the responsibility that comes with creating content for young audiences. John also shares his perspective on embracing technological change, including AI’s future in animation, while reflecting on the role of creativity, character, humility, luck, and skill in building a lasting career.

In this episode, I talk about why your potential isn't limited by your skills, knowledge, or opportunities; it's limited by the interference created by how you respond to fear. Fear will always be there, but when you stop letting it control your thoughts and behaviors, it becomes one of your greatest teachers. I discuss why building champions starts with building the right daily behaviors, how the AAA Strategy (Alignment, Action, and Adjustment) helps you stay aligned with where you want to be or better, and why purpose makes every obstacle easier to overcome. Most importantly, I share why faith...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Marc Lore and Jim Kwik to talk about the mindset, leadership, and long-term thinking that drive lasting success. We discuss why raising capital is about creating greater value, how purpose helps you push through setbacks, and why self-image shapes the choices you make every day. Marc shares his philosophy on building mission-driven companies, while Jim explains how learning, curiosity, and cognitive flexibility prepare us for a rapidly changing world. We also talk about raising resilient kids, leading with humility and empathy, making decisions that honor your core values, and building champions in...

In today’s episode, I join Mark Pattison on the Finding Your Summit podcast to talk about the mission of empowering more than a billion people through service, gratitude, and creating a ripple effect of positive influence. I share why saying "thank you" each morning and night became a life-changing habit, the lessons I learned from working alongside legendary sports agent Lee Steinberg, and why kindness creates lasting abundance. We also discuss surrounding yourself with people who support your purpose, building sustainable communities through philanthropy, and how simple, consistent habits can transform both your life and the lives of th...

In today’s episode, I sit down with Rob Gill to talk about building wealth that lasts by combining the right mindset with the right financial structure. We discuss why sales and marketing create opportunity, but legal planning, tax strategy, and coordinated financial teams help protect and compound success. Rob shares how overcoming addiction, financial mistakes, and limiting beliefs reshaped his relationship with money, while I explain why abundance starts with frequency, faith, and eliminating interference caused by fear and ego. Together, we explore disciplined habits, long-term preparation, financial sobriety, and why true wealth comes from aligning purpose, planning, an...