The Professional Experts Podcast

Sonny Melendrez joined me for one of the most joyful conversations I have had on this podcast. Sonny is a Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame inductee, a Disney Channel pioneer, a voice artist mentored by Mel Blanc himself, and a professional speaker whose career spans more than five decades. But what struck me most was not the resume. It was the thread running through all of it: a kid in a tree house, dreaming without limits, who simply never stopped.

The Dream Does Not Wait for the Ready

Sonny grew up behind his father's barbershop...

Richard Battle joined me for one of those conversations that feels less like an interview and more like a long breakfast between old friends. Richard is the author of the Americans Who Made America series, and he lives right here in Lakeway, Texas, not far from my front door. We have known each other since our Junior Chamber of Commerce days, and that shared history gave this conversation a warmth and depth that I think you will feel from the first minute.

What America's 250th Asks of Us

Richard's books are not nostalgia. They are...

Capt Charlie Plumb CPE joined me for one of the most meaningful conversations I have had on this podcast. Charlie is Navy Captain, former fighter pilot, and a man who spent over 2,000 days as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. He came home not broken, not bitter, but clear. Clear about purpose, clear about people, and clear about what it means to grow through the hardest seasons a human being can face. That clarity is what makes him one of the most trusted voices I know.

Adversity Is Too Good to Waste

Charlie's central message...

Brian Bogert joined me for one of the most honest, layered conversations I have had on this podcast. Brian is Certified Professional Expert number 40, and he earned that number by doing the work, not just talking about it. He has invested over $800,000 in coaches, mentors, and programs over 13 years. That is not a flex. That is a philosophy. And it shows in every word he speaks.

The Story That Grounds Everything

At age seven, Brian was run over by a runaway truck in a parking lot. His left arm was severed. Twenty-four surgeries followed. What...

Brian Bogert joined me for one of the most honest, layered conversations I have had on this podcast. Brian is Certified Professional Expert number 40, and he earned that number by doing the work, not just talking about it. He has invested over $800,000 in coaches, mentors, and programs over 13 years. That is not a flex. That is a philosophy. And it shows in every word he speaks.

The Story That Grounds Everything

At age seven, Brian was run over by a runaway truck in a parking lot. His left arm was severed. Twenty-four surgeries followed. What...

Brian Bogert joined me for one of the most layered, honest conversations I have had on this podcast. Brian is Certified Professional Expert number 40, and he earned that number the hard way. He has invested over $800,000 in coaches, mentors, and programs over 13 years, not to collect credentials, but because he genuinely believes life compounds on itself. That belief shows in everything he does.

The Story That Grounds Everything

At age seven, Brian was run over by a runaway truck in a parking lot. His left arm was severed. Twenty-four surgeries followed. What struck me most...

Dave Kaufmann joined me for one of those conversations that reminds you why this work matters. Dave grew up on an Amish farm, left at 21 with a calling he could not quite name, and built his way from selling backyard storage sheds to becoming one of only ten master certified DISC trainers in the world. He was handpicked by the Ziglar family to carry that legacy forward. And he did it all by going deep on one thing rather than wide on everything.

The Oak Tree Principle in Practice

One of Dave's mentors told him...

Dave Kaufmann joined me for one of the most honest and warm conversations I've had on this podcast. Dave grew up on an Amish farm, left at 21 with a calling he couldn't quite name, and built five companies rooted in one core belief: your business is not your purpose. It is the vehicle that takes you there.

One Thing Done Deeply

What struck me most about Dave's story is how early he committed to mastery. He discovered DISC, the behavioral model built on William Moulton Marston's work, and he didn't dabble. He went all the...

What if the key to innovation and stronger teams isn’t more structure—but more creativity? In this episode, Jeff Rogers shares how his background in improv comedy and work with Second City shaped his approach to leadership, storytelling, and corporate transformation.

From building trust within teams to shifting mindsets from risk-avoidance to exploration, Jeff breaks down how organizations can unlock creativity and take meaningful action. You’ll also hear powerful insights on why people fear judgment—not public speaking, how small perspective shifts can change outcomes, and why embracing an “explorer’s mindset” is essential in today’s fast-c...

Most people are being guided by beliefs they didn’t consciously choose. In this thought-provoking conversation, Ali Sweeney shares how unconscious beliefs act like an invisible operating system that shapes our decisions, behaviors, and leadership without us even realizing it. Through her work as an intuitive guide, she helps high performers uncover hidden patterns formed earlier in life and interrupt the cycles that keep them stuck.

This episode explores the powerful intersection of intuition, leadership, and self-awareness—revealing how leaders can move beyond fear, reprogram limiting beliefs, and align their actions with who they truly are.

Ab...

What happens when everything you built your identity on is taken away? In this conversation, legendary speaker Dan Clark shares how a life-altering injury, a single cassette tape, and the right mentors transformed his darkest moments into a calling that’s impacted millions—revealing why resilience, belief, and purpose always matter more than talent alone. This episode is a reminder that you don’t find your calling by chasing success, but by answering the moment that almost broke you.

About the Guest:

Dan Clark is an internationally renowned Hall of Fame speaker, bestselling author, and resili...

What does it really take to become a trusted professional expert—and stay relevant for decades? In this episode of The Professional Experts Podcast, host Jim Cathcart sits down with John Murphy, a globally respected authority in culture change and organizational alignment, to unpack the mindset, methods, and moments that shaped his remarkable journey.

From launching his consulting practice before he had it all figured out to leading rapid, measurable change inside major organizations, John shares why expertise is built through action, not perfection. You’ll discover how alignment beats authority, why simplicity outperforms complexity, and how crea...

What does it take to turn expertise into impact—and truly thrive as a leader in your field? In this inspiring episode of the Professional Experts Podcast, host Jim Cathcart welcomes Danielle Ribeiro, a Certified Professional Expert and founder of DMR Society. Danielle’s journey from a humble upbringing in Connecticut to regional sales leader and now thriving entrepreneur is a testament to the power of mindset, perseverance, and living in alignment with one’s purpose.

Together, Jim and Danielle explore what it means to build a business around personal expertise, diving deep into the DMR Method’s blend...

What does it take to transform adversity into achievement? In this episode, host Jim Cathcart welcomes Rene Godefroy, a Haitian-born motivational speaker whose life story embodies resilience, service, and the power of belief. From his early years growing up in poverty to working as a doorman after arriving in America, Rene’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when consistency, integrity, and a commitment to others guide your path.

Rene opens up about the principles that helped him rise from humble beginnings to international stages, sharing lessons on building relationships, leveraging digital assets, and staying true...

Most of us know Brian Tracy as one of the world’s top experts on success and sales, but what really creates lasting achievement? Brian breaks down the habits that shaped his legendary career and why anyone can use them to reach higher levels of success. He shares how taking full responsibility, writing down goals every day, and following through with consistent effort can change everything.

We hear how focusing on one key skill, finishing what you start, and serving others first builds both confidence and credibility. Brian’s message is clear: success isn’t about luck or tal...

Most people have read or heard of Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich, but why don’t millions of readers actually grow rich? In this episode of the Professional Experts Podcast, host Jim Cathcart is with John Mitchell, who have uncovered the book’s “missing secret.” Together, they explore why inspiration alone isn’t enough—and what truly turns ambition into results.

John shares how he decoded Hill’s work, applied it to his own life, and created a method that produces tangible success instead of wishful thinking. Listeners will learn how to reframe their approach to goal setting...

What if a single $12 ticket could change the entire course of your life? For Don Hutson, that’s exactly what happened. In this episode, he joins Jim Cathcart to share how one unforgettable sales rally sparked his journey from inspired college student to world-class speaker, best-selling author, and one of the founding members of the National Speakers Association. Along the way, Don reveals how seizing opportunities, building meaningful relationships, and learning from the best shaped his rise from humble beginnings to the global stage.

Packed with wisdom and real-world lessons, Don dives into what it truly takes to...

What if your brand wasn’t just what you did—but who you are, out loud? In this episode of, Jim Cathcart with Erik Swanson—aka “Mr. Awesome”— dive into what it really takes to build a thriving, purpose-driven business as a professional expert. They talk mentorship, masterminds, and the intentional strategies that fuel long-term success. From Erik’s early days working with Brian Tracy to launching global speaker networks and high-impact masterminds, you’ll hear what separates charismatic energy from calculated excellence.

Whether you’re a speaker, coach, author, or aspiring thought leader, this candid conversation delivers gold: sto...

In this inspiring episode, Dave Kaufman shares his remarkable transformation from growing up on an Amish farm to becoming a renowned business coach and expert. Learn how he built multiple successful companies, mastered the DISC personality assessment, and developed a coaching philosophy centered on helping small businesses find freedom and success. Dave reveals his secrets to professional growth, the importance of serving others, and how becoming an expert in one area can unlock incredible opportunities. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode offers powerful insights into building a meaningful and impactful career.

About...

What drives a young woman to travel the world and challenge global narratives? In this episode, Niki McCuistion reveals her extraordinary journey from a curious teenager who ran away to France to a fearless PBS documentary producer investigating terrorism. Hear how her uncle's early mentorship and insatiable curiosity propelled her into a career of international journalism and storytelling.

Niki shares intimate details of her documentary production, including the risks she took traveling to the Middle East just years after 9/11, and how she fearlessly confronted terrorist groups listed in her film. Her story is a masterclass in professional...

Defining The Professional Expert. What does it really mean to be a “professional expert?”

In this episode The Professional Experts Podcast, host Jim Cathcart interviews one of the newest CPEs, Dr. Terry Paulson, author, psychologist, professional speaker, political commentator and novelist. Terry is one of the most diplomatic and intelligent people of character that Jim has ever known. They dive into the evolving world of experts who make their unique skills the core of their careers—whether they’re coaches, consultants, speakers, or authors. The spotlight is on how professionalism, not just subject mastery, defines a true pro.

What does it take to reinvent yourself and thrive in completely different industries? Beth Robbins knows firsthand, having built success as a Broadway actress, a fitness champion, and now a Certified Life Skills Trainer. Her journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of personal growth.

As one of the newest Certified Professional Experts, Beth joins Jim Cathcart on the Professional Experts Podcast to share how she mastered transformation and now helps others do the same. She dives into the mindset shifts, habits, and life skills that create lasting success.

Whether you're navigating...

What if the secret to captivating any audience wasn’t just in what you say—but in how you say it? In this episode, Patricia Fripp, a Hall of Fame speaker and expert speech coach, shares her journey from being a San Francisco hairdresser to becoming one of the most in-demand speaking coaches in the world. Along the way, she reveals powerful insights on communication, personal branding, and the business of expertise.

With decades of experience coaching top-tier speakers and business leaders, she reveals key strategies for making your message unforgettable. From choosing the right business model to d...

In this power-packed episode, we go behind the scenes with some of the biggest names in personal development and professional speaking. Hear from Certified Professional Experts like Les Brown, Brian Tracy, Don Hutson and others as they share the strategies, mindsets and pivotal moments that propelled them to the top of their fields.

You'll discover how these experts overcame early challenges and self-doubt to find their true calling. Gain insights on the key principles they used to build highly successful speaking, coaching and consulting businesses, and learn their proven techniques for captivating an audience and creating an...

What if success isn’t about chasing dreams but learning how to catch them? Meet Kevin Davis, a visionary entrepreneur who has cracked the code to achieving your dreams. He takes us on his incredible journey from small-town Kentucky to building a thriving multi-state quick-lube business. Through grit, determination, and his Align, Chart, Navigate framework, Kevin reveals how he transformed obstacles into opportunities, becoming a Certified Professional Expert and an inspiring leader.

Kevin shares the powerful life lessons he’s learned, including the importance of mentorship, building scalable systems, and leading with integrity. He explains how aligning your...

What does it take to turn setbacks into stepping stones for success? In this episode, we uncover the answer with Brian Livingston, a Certified Professional Expert from Canada, who shares his remarkable journey from police work in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to becoming a thriving entrepreneur. Along the way, Brian faced life-changing events like surviving 9/11 in New York and overcoming the challenges of unethical business partners, showcasing his resilience and determination.

Brian emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, ethical practices, and leveraging expertise to build a successful business. His story highlights the transformative power of mentorship and the 10...

In this episode, host Jim Cathcart is joined by Ron Karr, a distinguished Certified Professional Expert and the creator of the "Velocity Mindset." Known for his profound insights and strategic approach, Ron Karr discusses the essence of effective leadership and communication, advocating the importance of listening to and understanding audience needs to drive meaningful engagement. He elaborates on the evolution of the "Titan Principle" into "Lead, Sell or Get Out of the Way," providing a framework for unifying corporate cultures and enhancing performance.

Ron shares compelling examples from his career, demonstrating how focusing on significant problem-solving has...

Captivating, Inspiring, Empowering - this episode of The Professional Experts Podcast reveals the secrets to becoming an everyday rock star. Host Jim Cathcart, welcomes special guest Robin Creasman, a certified professional expert and multitalented performer. Robin shares his inspiring journey, from his early days as a musician on Star Search to his successful career as a professional speaker, coach, and video producer for top-level speakers.

Robin reveals the key principles that have guided his success, including the importance of thinking like a producer, preparing like an actor, and performing like a rock star. He emphasizes the power...

Hosted by Jim Cathcart, today's episode tackles the compelling subject of instinct training within the context of the ongoing debate between nurture versus nature. The discussion features insights from esteemed guests Mike Graham. Throughout the episode, the journey from unconscious incompetence to unconscious competence is explored, emphasizing the critical role of intentional living and the transformative power of writing down goals. Mike shares profound lessons from his multifaceted career, highlighting how gratitude, effective mentorship, and the reframing of failures as learning opportunities can drive both personal and professional success.

The discussion underscores the importance of self-belief and...

In this episode, Jim Cathcart takes us on a journey through the remarkable story of the JCS (Junior Chamber of Commerce). Diving into the organization's history, mission, and his own personal experiences, Jim reveals how a commitment to leadership training through community service can profoundly shape individuals and communities.

Explore the JCS's unique approach, where young adults aged 18-35 came together to identify local needs, develop strategic plans, and execute impactful projects. Learn how the organization's creed, a powerful statement of beliefs, served as a guiding light for members, inspiring them to transcend boundaries and make a...

In this episode, we dive into the the strategies that shape successful businesses, with our featured guest - Daniel Pope, the CEO & Founder of Be Known. Daniel breaks down the importance of understanding your product's market, identifying sales obstacles, and crafting strategic plans for growth. He covers the sales process through various channels such as speaking engagements, social media, workshops, and networking events, and offers a meticulous approach to identifying and overcoming sales obstacles. From the importance of paid ads over organic social media to creating a tactical action plan for business models, Daniel offers invaluable advice for entrepreneurs...

Ever wondered why the smallest details can sometimes have the biggest impact on your life? In this episode, we explore this intriguing concept, inspired by Joel Weldon's legendary speech "Elephants Don't Bite" from the 1981 National Speakers Convention. Jim Cathcart dive into how small, consistent actions can transform both personal and professional lives, offering practical advice on overcoming challenges and shifting your mindset from limitation to possibility. Jim uncover how nurturing the little things can lead to monumental changes, and how rigorous attention to even the smallest details can build trust and deliver outstanding results in any field.

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Learn the secret to a life of harmony and business success as we explore the power of congruence in this episode. Harmonizing various aspects of our lives isn't about balancing acts; it's about creating a symphony where each instrument, our talents, plays its part in contributing to a unified whole. Let's talk about the beauty of intentional congruence and reveal how it can be orchestrated to cultivate success and fulfillment without every area demanding equal time.

Prepare to be inspired by stories of community service and leadership that transcend the ordinary. Discover how a simple series of...

The centuries-old Cathcart family motto, "I hope to speed," has become an intimate part of my life's narrative, a sentiment Robin Creasman and I explore with heartfelt enthusiasm. Our conversation traverses the landscape of hope, reimagining it as a dynamic force that propels us toward our aspirations. We unravel the art of visualization and disciplined practice in bringing our deepest goals to fruition, illuminating the path from dreaming to achieving with poignant personal stories.

Our narrative tapestry weaves through tales of resilience, painting hope as the undercurrent that sustains us through life's trials. Whether it's providing solace...

Have you ever caught yourself voting with your heart instead of your head? Join us to dissect the intricacies of group decision-making. Our spirited discussion cuts through the noise to get to the heart of rationality, especially when emotional currents threaten to sweep away clear thinking. As we unpack the impact of groupthink on everything from boardroom strategies to election outcomes, you're invited to reconsider the way every choice you make can ripple through society.

It's not just about making decisions—it's about making them stick. The art of 'confirming' commitments in sales is a dance between lo...

Listen in as my co-author, Dennis Madden and I tackle the essence of adaptability in our high-speed information society. Dennis is the former head of a national association in the automotive business. He has counseled thousands of shop owners and business service people. His advice was brilliant and we had many great ideas that entrepreneurs can benefit from. We dive deep into Alvin Toffler's "Future Shock" and its insights on the rapid evolution of learning, relationships, and decision-making in today's digital whirlwind.

With a nostalgic look back at the 1970s, we contrast the past simplicity with our...

In this episode, we confront the enigmatic question: "What's coming?" Reflecting on past uncertainties like the aftermath of 9/11, Jim underscores the unpredictable nature of the future. Our discussion dives into the essence of preparation, seizing opportunities, and navigating evolving landscapes. Learn the transformative power of taking control of what's within our reach and how this approach is crucial as we cast our eyes toward the possibilities that 2024 holds. The conversation navigates the intersection of realism and optimism, urging you to embrace a leadership style rooted in integrity and awareness. From transformative decisions to embracing mindful leadership, you are encouraged...

Today we're joined by actor, producer, and author Bruce Belland, renowned for his versatile career in entertainment. Listen in as we explore his intriguing journey, from being a member of the first boy band, The Four Preps, to becoming a network executive who played a crucial role in launching the popular game show "Wheel of Fortune." Get a taste of Bruce's remarkable Hollywood life, as he recalls growing up in West Hollywood, delivering newspapers to celebrities, and his fascinating encounters with some of the biggest names in the industry. We also venture into the ever-changing landscape of the music...

Ready to challenge your perspectives on wisdom and honor? Then strap in, because we're about to embark on a deep examination of these two profound and significant concepts, guaranteed to ignite introspection. Our panel of guests, along with Jim, delve into the nuances of wisdom, moving beyond mere intelligence, and explore the concept of 'reading the mind of God'. We then pivot to practical applications, pondering how to express honor and acquire wisdom in our daily lives. Our exploration concludes with a discussion on the power of silence and self-reflection, encouraging listeners to observe the world around them for...

It's fascinating to hear about the different traditions and rituals that have shaped our lives and it's impact on us. Join us as we explore the timeless rituals and practices that connect generations and shape our identities. In this episode, we'll hear heartwarming stories from individuals who have cherished family traditions and discuss how these rituals impact our lives. Tune in to discover the magic of traditions and why they hold a special place in our hearts. Learn how these practices shape our values, create connections with others, and provide a sense of continuity across generations. This episode is...