Business of Advice

Running a successful business isn’t just about profits and performance metrics; it’s about people. In this episode of the Business of Advice podcast, Cody and David pull back the curtain on how they’ve used their business, Advisors Excel, as a force for good. From developing innovative employee benefits to transforming neglected neighborhoods and supporting local charities, they share the intentional ways they’ve created a positive workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters employee satisfaction and builds a stronger, more engaged team. It’s time to rethink your role as a leader — not just as someone who drives success, but as a catalyst for change in your team AND your community.

Being great at your job and being a great leader require two very different skill sets. In this episode of the Business of Advice podcast, Cody and David reflect on their 20 years of leadership experience, sharing the lessons they’ve learned after stepping into leadership roles. From setting the pace to showing up in the toughest times, they unpack the 7 lessons every leader must master. Whether it’s fostering accountability, building consistency or understanding the weight of your words, these strategies will challenge and inspire you to lead with impact.

Kicking off the 100th episode with a bang! 💥 Join Cody as he and Advisors Excel co-founder David Callanan reflect on their entrepreneurial journey over the past two decades, sharing invaluable insights for anyone wanting to start a business. In this iconic installment of the podcast, these long-time friends and business partners share their top strategies for seizing opportunities, achieving sustainable growth and navigating change. Follow along as they share 8 key lessons they’ve learned from their own successes and failures. Don’t miss this milestone episode of the Business of Advice podcast — a must-listen for entrepreneurs! Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 on leadership lessons and community engagement.

Join us as we sit down with the legendary Coach K to uncover the leadership principles that shaped his extraordinary career at Duke University and Team USA Basketball. From building trust within a team to empowering others to grow, Coach K reveals actionable wisdom for leaders in any field. Whether you’re managing a business or a basketball team, this episode will inspire you to prepare, lead and win.

What separates good leaders from great ones? Bestselling author, entrepreneur and leadership expert Dan Martell joins the Business of Advice with Cody Foster podcast once again to break down the difference between transactional and transformational leadership — and why mastering the latter is key to scaling your business. Dan, author of “Buy Back Your Time” and mentor to countless entrepreneurs, shares actionable strategies for setting clear outcomes, coaching your team for success and empowering them to solve problems independently through his 1-3-1 Principle framework. If you’ve struggled with micromanaging or finding the balance between leading and doing, Dan gives you the tools to step into a leadership style that will help you “buy back your time.”

What’s the difference between being great and staying great? Eric Thomas, considered by many to be the #1 motivational speaker in the world, joins The Business of Advice with Cody Foster to break down the power of the standard, building a legacy and what it takes to maintain long-term success. Plus, powerful moments on stage from his latest talk. A must-listen for financial professionals and leaders seeking inspiration!

Donald Trump returns to office in days, but what will his presidency mean for your business and clients? Becky Ruby Swansburg, CEO of Stonewood Financial, answers that to help us prepare for an enigmatic and opportunity-rich 2025, which she is calling “The Year of the Roth.”

What leadership qualities separate winners from the rest? Adam Contos has forged an impressive career across multiple industries, turning every chapter into a valuable learning experience. From serving as a SWAT team commander to leading one of the world’s largest real estate brands as the former CEO of RE/MAX and now investing in franchises through Area 15 Ventures, Adam’s journey is rich with powerful leadership lessons, which he shares in his book, “Start With a Win.” In this episode, he shares how building strong relationships, embracing adaptability, prioritizing personal growth and leading with service are the qualities that turn leaders into winners.

What can a humble postal carrier teach us about excellence and leadership? When Mark Sanborn moved into his first home, he met Fred Shea, a mailman who stood out by delivering more than just letters. Fred embodied exceptional service, taking a deep interest in the lives of everyone on his route. Inspired by Fred’s kindness and commitment, Mark wrote his bestselling book, “The Fred Factor.” Now an internationally celebrated author and keynote speaker, Mark joins us for this episode of the Business of Advice with Cody Foster podcast to share how small, thoughtful actions can ignite extraordinary growth in our personal and professional lives.

As a former NFL Pro Bowl running back and founder of Hustle Clean, Justin has always approached life with a mentality of determination and hustle. Transitioning from the football field to the business world, he demonstrates how resilience and perseverance can turn challenges into opportunities. Justin is a shining example to aspiring entrepreneurs that adversity should not define you but rather refine you, bringing you closer to your dreams and goals. Join us for this episode as he shares his insights on what it takes to build a successful business and the importance of having a strong mindset.