Blaze Your Own Trail

Hosted by Jordan Mendoza

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180

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Real stories. Raw conversations. And actionable strategies from Host Jordan Mendoza and other 100's of entrepreneurs and trailblazers who turned adversity into advantage. Are you ready to blaze your own trail? Then you have come to the right place! Learn more here: https://byotpod.com/ We hope each episode adds value to you in some way. Make sure to follow & subscribe so you don't miss any content & updates!

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60 recent

June 9, 202647 min

How to Unlock Wealth in Commercial Real Estate with Cherif Medawar

In this episode, Cherif Medawar shares his inspiring journey from hotel management in Switzerland and the US to becoming a successful real estate investor and educator. Discover his proven strategies for building wealth through commercial real estate, networking, and innovative deal-making techniques. Topics: Cherif Medawar's journey from hospitality to real estate The importance of networking and relationship building Strategies for increasing property value and financing deals The DCBA formula for success in real estate Innovative deal-making techniques and deal structuring Sound bites "He was very wealthy and very honest" "The deal in Martinique changed my life" "Take calculated risks and act quickly" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cherif Medawar 00:58 Early Life and Education in Egypt 02:47 Transition to the United States and Hotel Management 04:29 Lessons from the Hospitality Industry 07:26 Cultural Shift: From Switzerland to UCLA 12:03 Working with Edmond Beasari: The Beginning 12:14 Growth and Learning Over Eight Years 16:26 A Life-Changing Deal in Martinique 22:19 Mentorship and the Path to Independence 23:20 The Journey of Self-Education 25:02 Transitioning to Real Estate Success 29:23 The Power of Commercial Real Estate 30:39 Tips for Aspiring Real Estate Investors 43:28 Building a Real Estate Fund and Legacy Connect with Cherif: https://www.cherifmedawar.com/ Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 26, 202654 min

They Made a Motion Picture About His Life with David Packouz

Jordan Mendoza interviews David Packouz, the real-life inspiration behind the movie War Dogs, exploring his journey from religious upbringing to government contracting success. Discover how David leveraged his entrepreneurial spirit, navigated legal challenges, and now teaches others to win government contracts through his War Dogs Academy. Key topics David's background and early life The story behind the War Dogs movie How David got into government contracting The process of winning government contracts Lessons learned from legal challenges and success Chapters 00:00 Introduction to David Packouz and His Journey 02:51 Early Life and Religious Background 06:50 Rebellion and the Path to Entrepreneurship 07:19 First Steps into Business and Music 17:09 Transition to Government Contracting 20:29 Understanding Government Contracting 23:02 Success Stories from War Dogs Academy 29:59 The Genesis of War Dogs Academy 35:58 Building a Real Business: The Importance of Integrity 37:50 The Role of Community in Success 40:34 The Journey to Hollywood: From Infamy to Fame 51:22 Finding Fulfillment in Business and Life Connect with David: IG: https://www.instagram.com/davidpackouz/ War Dogs Academy - https://wardogsacademy.com InstaFloss - https://instafloss.com SingularSound (Beat Buddy) - https://www.singularsound.com TrustPilot reviews for War Dogs Academy - https://www.trustpilot.com/review/wardogsacademy.com Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 12, 202634 min

How a $35K Investment Turned into a Highly Profitable Airbnb Arbitrage Business with Linda Kim

Linda Kim shares her inspiring journey from corporate tech to successful Airbnb arbitrage and coaching. Discover actionable strategies, mindset shifts, and tips to accelerate your side hustle into a thriving business. Key topics Airbnb arbitrage strategy Mindset and overcoming fear Design as a profit driver Automation for passive income Scaling and partnership in real estate Takeaways Investing in coaching accelerates success. Design can increase profits by 30%. Mindset is crucial for overcoming rejection. Automation enables working fewer hours. Taking action despite fear leads to breakthroughs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Linda Kim's Journey 02:25 From Corporate to Entrepreneurship 05:11 The Decision to Invest in Coaching 07:52 Achieving Rapid Success in Airbnb 10:56 Mindset and Overcoming Challenges 13:44 Transitioning from Corporate to Full-Time Airbnb 16:39 Understanding Airbnb Arbitrage 19:45 The Importance of Design in Airbnb Success 22:16 Coaching and Helping Others Succeed 25:33 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Work with Linda: https://www.bnbmasterysociety.com/contact Connect with Linda: https://linktr.ee/itslindakim Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 20, 202646 min

From Knucklehead to Financial Freedom with Ryan D. Lee

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Ryan D. Lee, who shares his journey from a troubled youth to a successful entrepreneur and financial coach. Ryan discusses his philosophy on money, the importance of financial freedom, and how he helps others achieve their goals in a constrained timeframe. He emphasizes the significance of being present in family life and the lessons learned through his experiences in real estate investing. The conversation also touches on the concept of the ownership economy versus the dependency economy, and Ryan's approach to building a passive income machine. He concludes with a powerful message about living life to the fullest and using one's talents to serve others. Takeaways Ryan helps people retire in 10 years or less. He believes money's greatest value is providing options. Ryan's early life was marked by challenges and learning the hard way. He emphasizes the importance of being a present father. The 2008 financial crisis was a turning point for Ryan. He transitioned from a corporate job to real estate investing. Financial freedom is about cash flow, not just net worth. Ryan learned to build a system for financial independence. He advocates for the ownership economy over the dependency economy. Teaching others is a way to reinforce one's own learning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ryan D. Lee 01:18 Ryan's Early Life and Challenges 06:16 The Turning Point: Family and Purpose 12:07 Transitioning from Corporate to Real Estate 17:25 Lessons Learned in Real Estate Investing 23:33 Building a System for Financial Freedom 29:08 The Ownership Economy vs. Dependency Economy 33:43 The Passive Income Machine 39:12 The Book and Its Impact 45:35 Parting Words: Rise Up, Live Free Connect with Ryan: https://ryandlee.com/ Attend Ryann's event: https://joinriseuplive.com/2026 Buy a copy of Ryan's book: https://a.co/d/0gNEgob4 Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 17, 202641 min

From a Shy Kid with a Learning Disability to Stand-Up Star with Lahna Turner

Join us as Lahna Turner shares her inspiring journey from a shy kid with learning disabilities to a successful comedian, filmmaker, and advocate. Discover how her experiences with trauma, addiction, and resilience shaped her path and her latest projects, including a documentary and a comic series that honor her late husband Ralphie May and inspire others. Topics Journey from childhood to comedy Impact of trauma and addiction Creating a documentary and comic series Lessons learned from sports and arts Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lahna Turner 02:52 Lahna's Early Life and Challenges 05:40 The Journey into Dance and Fitness 08:16 Transitioning from Dance to Journalism 11:07 The Impact of a Life-Altering Accident 16:53 Embracing Comedy and Living Life Fully 18:32 The Spark of Comedy: Lahna's First Performance 24:02 Navigating the Comedy Scene: Mentorship and Growth 31:02 Balancing Family and Comedy: The Journey of Parenthood 37:27 Honoring a Legacy: The Documentary and Comic Book Projects Connect with Lahna Website - https://lahnaturner.com Documentary info: https://comewhatmayfilm.com/ Get the new comic book series: https://poundsofpower.com/ Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 15, 202636 min

The Accidental Juggler & Professional Keynote Speaker with Greg Bennick

Summary In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza speaks with Greg Bennick, a professional speaker and entertainer, about his journey from a young juggler to a successful entrepreneur. Greg shares his early experiences that shaped his passion for performance and connection, the evolution of his marketing strategies over the decades, and the importance of authenticity in personal branding, especially in the age of social media. The conversation emphasizes the significance of kindness and personal connection in both business and life. In this conversation, Greg Bennick shares his journey of building community and adding value through his work. He discusses the evolution of his offers, emphasizing the importance of connecting with audiences both on stage and through social media. Bennick highlights the significance of genuine presence and listening to the audience's needs. He introduces his book, 'Reclaim the Moment,' which outlines strategies for personal growth and connection in a world filled with distractions. The discussion also touches on the metaphor of juggling as a life lesson, encouraging listeners to celebrate small victories and maintain consistency in their pursuits. Takeaways Greg started his journey as a performer at a young age. He discovered his passion for juggling by accident. The entrepreneurial journey involves embracing uncertainty. Personal relationships are key to success in business. Marketing strategies have evolved but core principles remain the same. Authenticity is crucial in social media engagement. Kindness is a central theme in Greg's work. Building a personal brand takes time and effort. Value-driven content resonates more with audiences. Connection is essential in both personal and professional realms. Your goal should be to add value and build community. Connecting with your audience is essential for effective communication. Preparation is important, but presence in the moment is crucial. Feedback is vital for growth; seek it actively. The world is filled with distractions; focus on what truly matters. Celebrate small victories to maintain motivation. Consistency in your efforts leads to success. Patience is key when learning new skills. Stay engaged and connected with your audience. You're not alone in your struggles; reach out for support. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Greg Bennick's Journey 03:01 The Early Years: Discovering Passion and Purpose 05:57 The Evolution of a Performer: From Juggling to Speaking 09:02 Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey 11:57 Marketing Strategies: Then and Now 15:05 The Impact of Social Media on Personal Branding 18:55 Building Community and Adding Value 19:25 The Evolution of Offers and Edutainment 20:33 Connecting with Audiences: The Importance of Presence 22:09 Enhancing Audience Experience and Collecting Feedback 27:09 Introducing the Book: Reclaim the Moment 31:34 Juggling as a Metaphor for Life Lessons Connect with Greg: https://www.gregbennick.com/ Buy a copy of Greg's book: https://www.gregbennick.com/gregbennickbook Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 3, 202636 min

From Curious Kid to Faith-Based Producer: Sharonne Lanier's Journey

Join Jordan Mendoza as he interviews actress and producer Sharonne Lanier to explore her journey from curious kid in Miami to a thriving career in faith-based and mainstream film. Discover her insights on breaking into the industry, the importance of training, networking, and staying passionate through ups and downs. Key topics Sharonne Lanier's early life and curiosity-driven childhood Her journey through theater, commercials, and TV film The importance of training and mentorship in acting Industry changes and Atlanta's rise as a film hub Starting her own production company and faith-based projects Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sharon Lanier 01:05 Early Life and Curiosity 03:24 The Spark of Acting 05:41 Navigating the Drama Scene 08:13 College and Pursuing Theater 09:53 First Professional Booking 12:47 Internship and Early Career 16:10 Moving to Atlanta for Opportunities 18:14 Transitioning to TV and Film 19:53 Finding Representation 22:54 The Changing Landscape of the Industry 25:00 Faith-Based Productions and Personal Mission 27:17 New Projects and Impact 29:56 Advice for Aspiring Actors Connect with Sharonne: Website - https://krussoproductions.com Instagram - https://instagram.com/sharonlanier IMBD: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3591377/ Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 30, 202647 min

From Facing Major Jail Time to Building a Content Marketing Powerhouse With Tamara Thompson

Tamara Thompson shares her inspiring journey from early entrepreneurship and overcoming personal challenges to building a successful content marketing agency. Discover her insights on leveraging YouTube and podcasts for business growth, negotiation skills, and resilience. Key Topics Early entrepreneurial spirit and lessons learned Overcoming personal challenges and addiction recovery Building a successful content marketing agency Strategies for YouTube and podcast growth Negotiation and resilience in business Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tamara Thompson 01:14 Early Entrepreneurial Spirit 04:01 Lessons from Adversity 07:26 Turning Point: From Athlete to Entrepreneur 10:07 Negotiation and Resilience in Recovery 16:03 Building a Business from Experience 18:54 The Power of Asking and Networking 24:14 Lessons from Basketball to Business 26:49 Building the Right Team 28:35 The Evolution of Podcasting in Business 33:10 Leveraging Events for Business Growth 37:47 The Importance of Targeted Marketing 38:52 Strategies for YouTube Success Connect with Tamara: Website: https://broadcastyourauthority.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/broadcastyourauthority/ Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 16, 202643 min

How One Musician Is Revolutionizing Homeschooling with Jordan Page

Main Topics: The evolution of Jordan's personal journey from music and activism to education innovation How Firefly Education simplifies homeschooling with AI, community, and resource tools Breaking myths around homeschooling and socialization Practical tips for parents considering homeschooling and overcoming common obstacles The importance of faith, family, and self-belief in shaping a successful homeschooling environment In this episode: Jordan discusses his early interests in music, theater, and sports, and how these shaped his character The story of his spiritual awakening and commitment to serving through music and activism Insights into the challenges and misconceptions of homeschooling, including socialization and curriculum concerns An overview of Firefly's innovative features like AI-powered course creation, language translation, and community building Practical advice for parents on initiating homeschooling and trusting their abilities Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and introduction to Jordan Page’s diverse background 02:40 - Jordan’s personal journey from music to activism and faith 08:23 - Reflections on sports, mentorship, and childhood influences 12:13 - The significance of fatherhood and spiritual foundation in parenting 17:45 - Myths about socialization and the real benefits of homeschooling communities 22:30 - How Firefly platform transforms homeschooling with AI and resources 29:39 - Flexibility, trial options, and making homeschooling accessible for everyone 34:10 - The power of self-belief and overcoming fears in homeschooling 40:24 - Jordan's vision for empowering parents and students worldwide 41:31 - Closing remarks and how to get involved with Firefly Resources & Links: Firefly Education Firefly Chalkboard Course Builder Translate Plus Language Translation Firefly Co-op Community Connect with Jordan Page: Email: jordan@fireflyedu.org Firefly Education Website Special Notice: Interested in teaching or partnering with Firefly? Applications for instructors are open with no upfront costs, and the platform supports monetization of courses. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jordan Page 02:52 Jordan's Journey: From Music to Homeschooling 05:40 The Impact of Mentorship and Fatherhood 11:05 The Importance of Faith and Family 16:19 The Rise of Homeschooling: A New Approach 22:01 Leveraging Technology in Education 27:36 Overcoming Doubts: Encouragement for New Homeschoolers 33:23 Final Thoughts and Resources Connect with Jordan: Learn more about Firefly education network: https://fireflyedu.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fireflyeducationnetwork/ Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

February 20, 202646 min

Get Obsessed Or Be Average with Bryan Post

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews emotional performance coach Bryan Post. They discuss Bryan’s journey from a childhood in Oklahoma to becoming a successful entrepreneur and coach. Bryan shares insights on the importance of mindset, accountability, and the entrepreneurial spirit. He emphasizes the need for individuals to confront their fears and challenges through his Unshakeable Man Blueprint, which consists of confronting, challenging, and commanding one's life. The conversation highlights the sign Takeaways Bryan Post has been an emotional performance coach for nearly 30 years. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotional blueprint and traumas. Athletic experiences can foster self-motivation and coachability in business. Entrepreneurship requires grit and the willingness to take risks. Confronting one's fears is essential for personal growth. The Unshakeable Man Blueprint consists of confront, challenge, and command. Success is often about helping others achieve their goals. Investing in oneself is crucial for long-term success. Asking for help can lead to significant opportunities and connections. Failure is a part of the learning process; persistence is key. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emotional Performance Coaching 04:45 The Journey of Bryan Post: From Football to Social Work 09:33 The Importance of Athletic Mindset in Business 19:03 Transitioning from Employee to Entrepreneur 28:13 The Unshakeable Man Blueprint: Confront, Challenge, Command Connect with Bryan: https://www.bryanpost.com Join Jordan's FREE Weekly Group Coaching Community here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Are you an entrepreneur?Join my FREE Group Coaching Community where we have live calls, Q&A and more! Our Trailblazer Ecosystem also enables you to network with other entrepreneurs and creator hub eliminates multiple subscriptions and logins creating a one stop shop to take action!Use code: FOUNDING100 for 12 months access FREE and Founding pricing for life! (While Supplies Last)Join here: https://byotgroupcoaching.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.