The Best Advice Ever Podcast

40 Episodes
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By: Mike Goodwin

Comedian and public speaker Mike Goodwin explores the best and worst advice he’s received as well as speaking with guests to uncover hidden nuggets of wisdom.

S03E23- "Make a Playlist"
#113
Today at 12:00 PM

Summary

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares personal experiences and insights on parenting, conference attendance, and the importance of music playlists in preparing for significant events. He reflects on the emotional transition of sending his daughter to college and discusses the lessons learned from the National Speakers Association, emphasizing the role of fun in achieving success. Goodwin encourages listeners to create playlists to enhance focus and motivation, while also exploring the significance of humor and camaraderie in professional settings.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Parenting Transitions
03:03 Lessons from Conferences<...


S03E22- "No Advice, Just Updates"
#112
08/13/2025

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares personal updates while on the road, reflecting on his 25th wedding anniversary, the challenges of parenting, and the growth of his comedy career. He discusses the evolution of his audience engagement, lessons learned from a comedy class, and the emotional experience of dropping off his daughter at college. Mike also hints at exciting new opportunities ahead in his career.

Chapters

00:00 On the Road: A Unique Podcast Experience
01:03 Celebrating 25 Years of Marriage
02:05 Comedy Tour Reflections and Growth
10:17 The Journey of a Comedian: From Class to Stage
20:05...


S03E21- "Allow People to Do Their Job"
#111
08/07/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares personal insights on career management, the importance of allowing others to do their jobs, and the challenges of balancing family and work. He reflects on his transition to a new management structure, using a Tetris analogy to describe his previous approach to career opportunities. Mike discusses the emotional challenges of parenting, particularly as he prepares to send his daughter to college, and emphasizes the need for personal growth and adaptation in both parenting and professional standards.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Best Advice Ever<...


S03E20- "Execute Your Strategy"
#110
07/30/2025

 

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares his journey as a comedian transitioning into keynote speaking. He emphasizes the importance of executing strategies, creating a vision, and mastering the craft of public speaking. Goodwin discusses his experiences at the National Speakers Association, the value of community, and the differences between the comedy and speaking worlds. He reflects on the challenges and successes he has faced, offering insights into how to navigate the speaking industry while maintaining his comedic roots.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
02:09 Executing Your S...


S03E19- "Reflections on 50"
#109
07/23/2025

In this episode, Mike Goodwin reflects on the significance of birthdays, particularly his own milestone of turning 50. He shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing and how it shaped his views on celebrating birthdays. Mike emphasizes the importance of embracing life and the fleeting nature of time, encouraging listeners to celebrate themselves. He also discusses his approach to fitness and aging, highlighting the need for self-care and maintaining peace in relationships. The conversation is filled with humor and insights about navigating life at 50 and beyond.

 

00:00 Embracing Birthdays: A Personal Reflection

06:08 Turning 50: Insights and Reflections o...


S03E18- "Read Fiction Novels"
#108
07/16/2025

In this episode, Mike Goodwin emphasizes the importance of reading fiction novels as a way to enhance storytelling skills and personal growth. He shares his recent experiences with various novels, particularly those that explore the black experience, and encourages listeners to engage with fiction to improve their communication skills. Additionally, he discusses his desire to represent South Carolina more prominently in his work and reflects on the lessons of accountability learned from sports figures like Nick Saban.

00:00 The Importance of Reading Fiction

14:35 Repping South Carolina

22:44 Accountability and Life Lessons from Sports


S03E17- "Focus on Your Purpose"
#107
07/09/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever Podcast, Mike Goodwin shares personal updates, reflections on his journey in comedy, and the importance of focusing on one's purpose. He discusses his experiences at a fraternity event, the significance of mentorship, and the recent changes in his career management. Mike emphasizes the need to stay grounded and deliver value amidst growing recognition and opportunities, while also looking forward to future plans and aspirations.

 

00:00 Welcome Back and Updates
11:15 Focus on Your Craft
21:11 Career Progress and Management
27:10 Looking Ahead and Future Plans


S03E16- School Daze Pt 2
#106
07/02/2025

 

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin and his daughter Gabby discuss essential advice for students transitioning from high school to college. They cover various topics including the importance of getting involved on campus, mental health awareness, safety measures, navigating social situations, maintaining physical health, academic performance, and understanding money management. The conversation emphasizes the need for students to be proactive in their college experience, seek help when needed, and make informed decisions to thrive in their new environment.

 


S03E15- School Daze Pt 1
#105
06/25/2025

Summary In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares invaluable insights and advice for students transitioning from high school to college. He discusses his personal journey, the importance of understanding college life, building trust, navigating social dynamics, and the significance of class attendance and campus involvement. The conversation emphasizes the similarities between high school and college, the need for establishing boundaries, and the importance of maintaining relationships with family while pursuing academic goals.

00:00 Introduction to College Admissions Advice

03:17 Personal College Journey and Insights

06:10 Transitioning from High School to College<...


S03E14- Mike Takes on Admissions...Once Again
#104
06/19/2025

In this conversation, Mike Goodwin and Gabrielle Goodwin discuss the intricacies of the college admissions process, focusing on scholarship interviews, the importance of campus visits, and the decision-making process for selecting a college. They emphasize the need for preparation, the significance of understanding scholarship programs, and the role of parental guidance in navigating these choices. The discussion also touches on personal experiences and reflections on the application journey, providing insights for prospective college students and their families.


S03E13- Mike Takes on Admissions...Again
#103
06/11/2025

Summary In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin and his daughter Gabrielle discuss the college admissions process, focusing on application strategies, the importance of honors colleges, scholarship opportunities, effective communication with parents, crafting unique essays, building a strong extracurricular profile, and navigating the submission process. They emphasize the need for organization, authenticity, and proactive engagement in the admissions journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to College Admissions Process

02:42 Identifying Schools and Application Preparation

10:07 Understanding Honors Colleges and Their Benefits

14:24 Scholarship Applications and Opportunities

18:12 Effective Communication with...


S03E12- Mike takes on Admissions
#102
06/04/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, host Mike Goodwin is joined by his daughter Gabrielle Goodwin to discuss the college admissions process. They share insights from Gabrielle's recent experience as a high school graduate preparing to attend Vanderbilt University. The conversation covers essential topics such as researching colleges, the importance of campus visits, understanding college fit, applying strategies, the role of recommendations and essays, and standardized testing. The episode aims to provide valuable advice for students and parents navigating the college admissions landscape.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
02:56 Gabrielle's...


S03E11- "Walk at Least 30 Minutes a Day"
#101
05/29/2025

Summary

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares his insights on the importance of physical activity, particularly walking, as a daily habit for maintaining health and fitness. He discusses his personal journey with running and fitness, the challenges he faces as a comedian performing in various settings, and his desire to represent South Carolina in his comedy. Additionally, he reflects on his growth in social media presence and the recognition he is receiving as a comedian.

 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Best Advice

13:59 The Importance of P...


S03E10- "Learn to Say No Multiple Ways"
#100
05/21/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares his insights on the importance of learning how to say no effectively, especially in the context of increased requests that come with success. He discusses the nuances of travel logistics as a comedian, including the challenges of booking hotels and transportation. Additionally, he passionately defends the WNBA against common misconceptions and shares humorous anecdotes from his travels. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth and the value of everyday interactions.

Chapters

00:00 Mastering the Art of Saying No

08:44 Navigating Travel Logistics...


S03E09: "Keep Your Eye on the Ball"
#99
05/14/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin explores the differences between fun and relaxation, shares insights on comedy and audience engagement, and emphasizes the importance of staying focused amidst distractions. He reflects on his experiences as a comedian, particularly the challenges of performing in front of different audiences and the sensitivity required in his jokes. The episode culminates in a discussion about the significance of honesty in comedy and the lessons learned from past performances.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fun and Relaxation
03:03 The Nature of Comedy and Audience Engagement
05:49 The...


S03E08- "Eliminate Relief Syndrome"
#98
05/07/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares his recent experiences of being recognized in the comedy world, including mentions on popular podcasts like Joe Budden and Steve Harvey. He uses a restaurant analogy to describe the journey of building a comedy career, emphasizing the importance of visibility and recognition. Goodwin also discusses the concept of 'relief syndrome,' a tendency to relax after achieving success, and encourages listeners to maintain their drive and focus. He wraps up with details about upcoming events and expresses gratitude to his audience.

 

00:00 Introduction and Recent H...


S03E08- "Don't Just Copy What They Do, Learn How They Think"
#97
04/30/2025

In this episode, Mike Goodwin reflects on his journey as a father and comedian, sharing insights on the importance of understanding the thought processes behind successful individuals rather than merely copying their actions. He discusses the significance of networking and building relationships in the comedy industry, emphasizing the need to lead with value rather than requests. Mike also touches on the evolution of his career, recognizing the newfound opportunities and requests he receives as he gains recognition in the comedy world.

00:00 The Journey of Fatherhood and Reflection
02:00 Learning from Others: The Importance of Understanding Thought Processes<...


S03E07- Action is the Antidote for Anxiety
#96
04/23/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares insights on the importance of taking action to combat anxiety and feelings of being stuck. He reflects on his experiences in Charleston, discussing cultural nuances and the sense of community he observed. Additionally, he shares a humorous parenting story involving his son and a gambling incident during church, highlighting the challenges and joys of parenting.


S03E06- Invest in Yourself
#95
04/17/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever Podcast, Mike Goodwin shares insights on the importance of investing in oneself, distinguishing between expenses and investments, and the value of personal experiences. He reflects on his stay at a luxury hotel, discusses the dynamics of age and personal growth, and emphasizes the importance of fitness, particularly not skipping leg day. 


S03E05- Surround Yourself with People that Challenge You
#94
04/09/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares insights on the importance of surrounding oneself with people who challenge and inspire growth. He reflects on personal experiences, including conversations with friends that broadened his perspective, and his growth during the Carolina Cup event. Mike discusses the evolution of his relationships, the role of ego in personal development, and how different experiences shape our lives. He emphasizes that growth doesn't always have to be uncomfortable and that the right community can lead to profound insights and opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Best Advice<...


S03E04: Never Turn Down An Opportunity to Learn or Work
#93
04/02/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever Podcast, Mike Goodwin shares insights from Coach Buzz Williams, discusses his upbringing in Camden, South Carolina, and reflects on the burdens of success. He emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities for learning and working, while also addressing personal challenges related to success and family relationships. Additionally, he announces an upcoming humor intensive workshop for speakers.

00:00 Introduction to the Best Advice Podcast 06:22 Lessons from Coach Buzz Williams 10:07 Growing Up in Camden, South Carolina 28:00 The Burden of Success 40:29 Upcoming Humor Intensive Workshop


S03E03: Connect the Dots Between Relationships
#92
03/26/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, Mike Goodwin shares insights on the importance of building relationships, personal growth, and reflections on his journey as a comedian. He discusses the value of networking, the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and his experiences on the road. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with his upcoming events. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Best Advice 04:35 Building Relationships and Networking 14:22 Reflections on Personal Growth and Mindset 17:58 Experiences on the Road and Comedy Life 26:52 Insights on Health and Weight Management 43:05 Conclusion and Upcoming Events


S03E02: Write Down Everything
#91
03/20/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever Podcast, Mike Goodwin shares valuable insights on the importance of documenting one's journey, whether through writing or other means. He discusses his experiences with various gyms, the significance of community, and the creative process behind his comedy. The episode also touches on fitness and nutrition, emphasizing that one cannot outwork a bad diet. Goodwin encourages listeners to embrace their journeys and share their experiences.   00:00 Introduction to the Best Advice Ever Podcast 00:27 The Importance of Writing Everything Down 08:03 Documenting the Journey: More Than Just Goals 20:15 Experiences on the Road: Gym Relationships and Travel 24:32 A...


S03E01- Read More Than You Think You Should
#90
03/12/2025

In this episode of the Best Advice Ever podcast, comedian Mike Goodwin returns for Season Three, sharing insights and advice inspired by Coach Buzz Williams. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of reading, travel experiences in Nashville, and the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road. Mike also shares new comedy bits and personal reflections on his journey towards fitness, emphasizing the need for simplicity in diet and the value of humor in presentations.

 

00:00 Welcome Back and Season Three Kickoff 05:39 Coach Buzz Williams' Best Advice 14:09 Travel Tales: Nashville Adventures 25:47 Comedy B...


S02E45- "Be the Solution"
#89
09/11/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin introduces himself and his podcast, where he shares insights and humor from his life. He encourages listeners to be the solution to problems and challenges, rather than just pointing them out. He discusses the challenges of multi-generational issues in the workplace and shares his personal experiences. Mike also talks about his recent doctor's visit and his journey towards weight loss. He announces that this episode marks the end of Season 2 and that he will be taking a break before returning for Season 3.


S02E45- "One Birds-Two Stones"
#88
09/05/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin talks about his love for breakfast and dinner, and how he focuses on one task at a time to be more effective. He shares his weight loss journey and the importance of staying consistent and focused. Mike also discusses his upcoming tours and shows gratitude for the opportunities he has had in his career.


S02E44- "Lift Weights"
#87
08/28/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin talks about his recent experiences and shares his best advice ever: lift weights. He emphasizes the importance of lifting weights for bone density, improved mental health, posture, balance, heart health, and strength. Mike also discusses his upcoming events and encourages couples to take time away from their children to focus on their relationship.


S02E43- "Don't Overcomplicate It"
#86
08/21/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares his best advice ever: don't overcomplicate things. He reflects on his own struggles with weight loss and how he often made the process more complicated than it needed to be. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity and consistency in achieving goals. Mike discusses his recent epiphany about making fitness boring and shares his plan to focus on walking, regular workouts, and clean eating. He also mentions his upcoming doc appointment and sets a goal to lose 10 pounds by September. Mike encourages listeners to avoid overcomplicating things and to stay consistent in their efforts.<...


S02E42- "Cultivate Existing Relationships
#85
08/14/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares the best advice ever: cultivate existing relationships. He reflects on the importance of friendship and the challenges of maintaining friendships throughout life. Mike emphasizes the need to be intentional in cultivating relationships and not taking them for granted. He also discusses the difficulties of finding authentic friendships and the importance of reciprocity in relationships. Mike shares personal experiences and insights on marriage, socializing, and the value of having a community of like-minded individuals. He concludes by encouraging listeners to appreciate and celebrate their friendships.


S02E41- "Don't Talk Crazy to People Who Are Preparing Your Food"
#84
08/07/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares the best advice he ever received: don't talk crazy to people who are preparing your food. He emphasizes the importance of being considerate and respectful to those who handle our food, as we never know what they might do to it. Mike also recounts a scary incident where he thought he had lost his family, but it turned out to be a miscommunication. He talks about his recent comedy shows and the challenges of staying healthy on the road. He also mentions watching the Olympics and reaffirms his faith in Jesus.


S02E40- "Always Email Your Slides in Advance"
#83
07/31/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares two pieces of advice. The first is to always email your slides in advance when giving presentations, as he had a recent experience where his slides were lost. The second piece of advice is to find joy and happiness in what you do, inspired by watching the Japanese women's basketball team play with enthusiasm and celebration. Mike also discusses his approach to clean comedy and the importance of integrity in the comedy industry.

 

00:00 Introduction and Best Advice Ever: Always Email Your Slides in Advance 07:30 Finding Joy and Happiness in What Y...


S02E39- "Focus on Your Blessings"
#82
07/24/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares his best advice ever: to focus on your blessings. He talks about the recent changes in his podcast studio and the launch of his YouTube page. Mike reflects on the challenges he faced in booking tour dates and the discouragement he received, but he chooses to focus on the blessings and successes he has experienced. He discusses his recent comedy shows and the positive feedback he received from fans. Mike also emphasizes the importance of clean comedy and the void it fills in the industry.


S02E38- "You Can Choose the Game but not the Rules"
#81
07/17/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares various anecdotes and thoughts on different topics. He starts by giving a shoutout to his friend Robert Duckworth and reminiscing about their time at a comedy conference. He then discusses the differences between Christian comedy associations and the music industry. Mike also shares his best advice ever, which is to respect authority and play by the rules of the game you choose. He talks about protecting his joy and avoiding getting caught up in political discussions. He ends the episode by mentioning Jonathan Majors and his unbridled joy while dancing, and sharing some...


S02E37- Focus on your Purpose, Not Your Haters"
#80
07/10/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin discusses various topics including the significance of Juneteenth, the importance of acknowledging America's history, the impact of representation, and his experiences in comedy and chess. He also touches on the challenges of fame and the expansion of his career. Mike Goodwin discusses his strategy for expanding his comedy career by attacking it from multiple angles. He shares how he focuses on three main areas: comedy performances, speaking engagements, and coaching. He also talks about his recent experiences with TEDx talks, artist residencies, and comedy tours. Goodwin emphasizes the importance of not focusing on haters...


S02E36- "People Who Pay, Pay Attention"
#79
07/03/2024

Mike has an interesting set of travel experiences that culminate with a surprising honor. The advice of the week minds your coins and your attention span.


S02E35- "Summer Hours"
#78
06/26/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin discusses various topics, including his preference for driving with the windows down instead of using the AC, his thoughts on which states represent well, his experience at a men's conference, and a story about someone's girlfriend moving out while he was on a cruise. The episode ends with a reminder of Mike's upcoming comedy tour.


S02E34- "Freestyle...Friday???"
#77
06/19/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin shares his experiences of opening for comedian Ali Sadiq and reflects on his own performance. He also discusses his feelings about Father's Day and the passing of his own father. Mike talks about his unique personality and how he often goes against the grain. He mentions his dislike for football and his preference for basketball. He also touches on random topics like eating while driving and his experiences in Amish country. Overall, it's a freestyle episode with various anecdotes and reflections.


S02E33- "Don't Live in the Past
#76
06/05/2024

Comedian Mike Goodwin shares his experiences of recent speaking engagements, reflecting on the challenges and lessons learned. He also discusses the importance of not living in the past and shares personal insights and anecdotes. The conversation covers a range of topics, including public speaking, self-reflection, and the complexities of social media interactions.

Tour dates and tickets: mikegoodwin.com Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BowtieComedyOfficial Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bowtiecomedy/ Follow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bowtiecomedy?lang=en About Mike Goodwin: Mike Goodwin is a refreshingly funny comedian...


S02E32- "A calm sea does not produce a good sailor."
#75
05/29/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin reflects on his recent experiences at home and at the gym. He shares a story about a chance encounter with a fan at the gym and discusses his fascination with having multiple gym memberships. Mike also talks about the importance of facing challenges and difficult scenarios, using his own experiences in comedy and on America's Got Talent as examples. He ends the episode by discussing the NBA playoffs and a humorous conversation about the term '411'.

00:00-Welcome and Home Life Reflections

00:26- On the Road

11:54- The...


S02E31- "Get a Hobby"
#74
05/22/2024

In this episode, Mike Goodwin talks about the importance of having a hobby that is separate from work. He shares his own experience of finding a hobby and encourages listeners to do the same. He also discusses the concept of South Carolina being part of the South and shares his perspective on the state's history and identity.

00:00: The Importance of Having a Hobby

00:29: On the Road

13:56: The Best Advice Ever

25:55: Mind of Mike

29:30: The South and South Carolina's Legacy

37:35: Upcoming Comedy Tour Dates

 

T...