Dreamcatchers Hosted by Jerome Myers

Success often comes at a cost. In this episode, Jerome Myers explores the Five Scars of Success—key life experiences that shape high-achieving entrepreneurs: conditional love, suicidal ideation, financial ruin, near-death experiences, and early loss of a loved one. While these experiences fuel ambition, they can also make business exits emotionally complex. Jerome shares how to reframe these scars to build a fulfilling next chapter beyond business ownership. [00:00 - 01:00] Introduction & The Five Scars of Success A reminder to check in on others. Success is often shaped by personal struggles. Exiting a business is about more than money. [01:01 - 03:00] Scar #1: Conditional Love Achievementis tied to receiving love. Creates a need for external validation. Must redefine self-worth beyond success. [03:01 - 04:30] Scar #2: Suicidal Ideation High-pressure success leads to dark moments. Many founders struggle in silence. Support systems are crucial. [04:31 - 06:00] Scar #3: Financial Ruin Many experience major financial loss. Fear of failure fuels relentless drive. Rebuilding is possible with resilience. [06:01 - 07:30] Scar #4: Near-Death Experience Facing mortality changes perspective. Creates urgency to leave an impact. Can lead to overworking and burnout. [07:31 - 09:00] Scar #5: Early Loss of a Loved One Loss fuels the drive for legacy. First businesses often aren’t true legacies. Purpose must go beyond financial success. [09:01 - 11:00] How These Scars Affect Exiting a Business More scars make letting go harder. Identity is often tied to business. Exits should be about fulfillment, not loss. [11:01 - 12:30] Moving Forward: Healing & Redefining Success These scars shape, but don’t define, us. Healing means using them as fuel. The exit is just the start of something greater. Key Quotes: “Healing isn’t about forgetting the scars—it’s about using them to fuel your next chapter.” “Most founders don’t realize that their first business isn’t their legacy; it’s what they build after they exit.” Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the life you've carefully built suddenly changes—whether through divorce, a business exit, or an unexpected transition? How do you redefine success when everything familiar is gone? Michelle Jacobik, a financial expert and entrepreneur, shares her firsthand experience of navigating these pivotal moments. She and host Jerome Myers discuss rebuilding financial stability, rediscovering personal identity, and cultivating a mindset that fosters lasting success. Expect raw honesty, practical guidance, and an inside look at the steps needed to create a fulfilling next chapter.  Tune in to gain the confidence and strategies to embrace change and turn uncertainty into opportunity. [00:00 - 03:14] - The Power of Support & Mindset Shifts Purpose, values, and gifts define contributions Support systems are essential for growth Mindset impacts success [03:15 - 12:29] - Navigating Divorce and Financial Transitions Divorce is both emotional and financial Plan for financial stability post-divorce Avoid emotional spending [12:30 - 24:39] - Redefining Success: Money as a Tool, Not Security Money offers stability, not identity Financial habits shape outcomes True success aligns with values [24:40 - 35:49] - Avoiding Burnout and Planning Your Exit Burnout signals need for change Build a business with an exit plan Seek support for smoother transitions [35:50 - 44:19] - Financial Runway & Business Success Businesses take time and money Have at least a one-year financial cushion Align business and personal finances [44:20 - 49:26] - Creating a Business by Design, Not Default Business models should align with goals Core values guide strategy Growth comes from learning and mentorship Key Quotes: "If you can dream it, you can achieve it." – Michelle Jacobik "A business built for cash flow alone is a trap. A business built to exit is freedom." – Michelle Jacobik Connect with Michelle! Website: https://michellejacobik.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellejacobik/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the biggest myth about exit planning is also the most dangerous? In this solo episode, Jerome Myers, America's leading exit authority, breaks down the costly mistake founders make—waiting too long to plan their next move. He shares hard-hitting insights on the Founder’s Exit Paradox and why delaying the conversation about “what’s next” can leave you lost, unfulfilled, or even financially vulnerable. Jerome explores the excuses founders tell themselves, the four unexpected reasons entrepreneurs are forced to exit, and the ultimate question every business owner should ask: If you only had six months left before you had to exit, what would you do differently today? [00:00 - 02:44] The Exit Paradox: The Dangerous Myth That’s Holding You Back Waiting too long to plan leads to regret Exit is a transition, not the end Are you exiting from or to something? [02:45 - 008:51] The Three Excuses Founders Use to Delay Their Next Move “I’m too busy.” Avoiding the future creates problems “I don’t know what’s next.” Clarity comes from action “I love what I do.” Staying too long can cost you [08:52 - 13:48] The Four Unexpected Reasons Founders Are Forced to Exit Burnout: Overworking leads to exhaustion Death/Disease: Without you, does your business survive? Divorce: Work-life imbalance strains relationships Market Forces: Timing impacts exit success [13:49 - 16:57] Exit Planning as a Responsibility, Not an Afterthought Businesses relying on founders are worth less Liquidity creates freedom and security Innovative founders build self-sustaining companies [16:58] The Critical Question Every Founder Must Ask What would you prioritize with six months left? The Exit Readiness Assessment reveals blind spots Take action before time forces your hand. Key Quotes: “If you had six months before your exit, what would you do differently today?” - Jerome Myers “The biggest lie founders tell themselves is, ‘I’ll figure it out when the time comes.’” - Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your relationship with money determined your freedom? Most people chase wealth, but few truly understand how to manage it in a way that brings lasting security and fulfillment. Are you making financial decisions that serve your future, or are you unknowingly setting yourself up for financial traps? Jerome Myers sits down with Drew Boyer, author of Hip Hop & Finance, to explore the financial lessons hidden in hip-hop. From MC Hammer’s financial downfall to 50 Cent’s unexpected business acumen, this conversation unpacks the actual cost of economic ignorance, and the mindset shifts needed to build lasting wealth. Expect powerful stories, hard-earned wisdom, and a fresh perspective on personal finance that blends music, culture, and money in a way you’ve never heard before. [00:00 - 00:59] The Inspiration Behind Hip Hop & Finance Jerome introduces Drew and his book How hip-hop lyrics teach financial lessons Drew’s journey from drummer to finance Why financial education should be accessible [03:00 - 08:49] The Psychology of Money & Breaking Free from Debt How early money habits shape life The impact of comparison culture Drew’s experience with debt Recognizing and correcting money mistakes [08:50 - 14:54] Celebrity Money Mistakes: MC Hammer & 50 Cent MC Hammer’s $72M downfall 50 Cent’s vitamin water deal vs. bad investments The hidden costs of luxury homes The need for truth-tellers, not yes-men [14:55 - 21:44] What to Do With a Windfall & Avoiding Lifestyle Inflation Innovative steps for handling sudden wealth Why financial professionals matter Delayed gratification vs. impulse spending Investing in experiences and assets [21:45 - 33:19] Estate Planning & Protecting Your Legacy The chaos of dying without a will Lessons from Tupac, Mac Miller, and Takeoff Setting up trusts and legal documents Bob Marley’s estate planning mistake [33:20 - 40:00] The Key to Financial Success: Education & Patience Why financial literacy is key The power of patience and long-term thinking Controlling emotions in financial decisions Understanding money before you have it Key Quotes: "Some people spend their whole lives working hard but never learn to make money work for them." - Drew Boyer "The only person you should ever compare yourself to is who you were a year ago." - Drew Boyer Connect with Drew! Website: https://hiphopxfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-w-boyer-cfp/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if success isn’t enough? Many entrepreneurs reach financial freedom only to feel lost. Walter Paulsen, who built a $500M company, shares why wealth alone doesn’t bring fulfillment and what truly matters after the exit. Expect real talk on resilience, competition, and finding purpose beyond business. Walter and Jerome Myers break down why some thrive post-exit while others struggle—and how to make sure you’re on the right path. Listen now to discover what makes success truly meaningful. [00:00 - 04:55] - The Nature of Happiness & Purpose Happiness is fleeting, not a permanent state It’s a byproduct of meaningful work, not wealth Chasing money without purpose leads to dissatisfaction [04:56 - 07:30] - Competitive Mindset & Personal Growth Walter’s sports background shaped his resilience Self-competition builds long-term success Physical challenges enhance mental toughness [07:31] - Building a $500M Business in Four Years Led Blackhawk Network, pioneering the gift card industry Secured multi-year exclusivity deals before competitors reacted Growth came from a mix of timing, execution, and partnerships [16:00 - 24:15] - The Exit Paradox: What Happens After the Liquidity Event? Many founders face identity loss post-exit Financial success doesn’t guarantee purpose or fulfillment Those without purpose often struggle with post-exit happiness [24:16] - Finding the Right Problem to Solve Solving the wrong problem leads to wasted effort Small bets provide valuable insights Grit matters, but only in the right direction [32:00 - 41:29] - Transitioning to Coaching & Advising Walter shifted from operator to advisor Helps CEOs build strong company cultures Loving your work is key to long-term fulfillment Key Quotes: “Happiness isn’t something you chase; it’s a byproduct of living with purpose.” – Walter Paulsen “Small bets that don’t work out can be valuable because they show you where not to go.” – Walter Paulsen Connect with Walter! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/walterpaulsen/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Exiting your business should be a celebration—but why do so many founders feel lost afterward? In this solo episode, Jerome Myers explains the emotional cost of exiting, why money alone isn’t enough, and how to clearly navigate the transition.  Whether you're considering an exit or already on the other side, this episode will help you find purpose beyond the payday. [00:00] The Founder’s Exit Paradox Exits aren’t just financial—they're emotional transformations Many founders feel unexpected emptiness after selling Your next move matters—success isn’t just about money   [02:00] The Harsh Reality of Selling a Business Only 2 in 10 businesses that list sell Most founders assume buyers will line up—but they won’t Sellability matters—plan ahead or risk regret [04:00] The Emotional Rollercoaster Exiting brings loss, grief, and identity shifts Many founders fear what’s next and hesitate to sell Clarity is key—know where you're going before you exit [06:00] Why Money Isn’t Enough Money can’t replace purpose and fulfillment Founders struggle with self-image, relationships, and significance post-exit Avoid regret—build a meaningful next chapter [08:00] Exit to Excellence: Finding Your Next Jerome introduces his book, Exit to Excellence Every founder needs support and strategy post-exit Plan intentionally—don't just leave, step into something bigger Key Quotes: “Only two out of ten businesses that get listed actually sell.”  - Jerome Myers “Your next move should be intentional. Plan for fulfillment, not just a payday.” - Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What’s stopping your business from thriving without you? In this episode, Jerome Myers hosts Adi Klevit, founder of Business Success Consulting Group, to uncover the often-overlooked value of documenting and implementing processes. Adi shares real-life stories of businesses that doubled their value, onboarded employees faster, and achieved true operational freedom—all by putting robust systems in place.  Whether you're planning to sell your business or simply want to reclaim your time, this episode offers actionable insights to ensure your business works for you, not the other way around. [00:00 - 07:28] The Power of Documentation Processes are key to scalability and freedom Knowledge transfer ensures continuity Documented processes can double business value [07:29 - 12:56] Building a System-Driven Culture Processes must be implemented, not just written Accountability ensures systems are followed Onboarding can be reduced from months to weeks [12:57 - 18:24] Process Mapping and Simplifying Complexity Process mapping reveals inefficiencies Improved communication reduces delays Consistency builds internal and external trust [18:25 - 24:36] Timing Is Everything: When to Document Processes Start with sales and marketing when new Documenting helps refine evolving systems Proof of concept ensures processes work [24:37 - 32:48] Scaling, Legacy, and Freedom Processes free founders from daily operations Buyers value businesses with documented systems Adi scaled her team by documenting her own processes Key Quotes: "There is always a process for everything. It’s simply a matter of capturing it and then creating it." – Adi Klevit "When you hire someone, they need to know what to do. A documented process ensures they can replicate success every single time." – Adi Klevit Connect with Adi! Website: https://bizsuccesscg.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adiklevit/ Contact Number: 503-662-2911 Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you create a business that builds lasting value and grants you the freedom to live life on your terms? Justin Goodbread, a seasoned entrepreneur with seven successful exits, shares his insights on designing businesses that thrive without your constant involvement. Learn how to build scalable systems, create recurring revenue, and focus on what matters most—your family,  passions, and legacy. If you’re ready to shift from being indispensable in your business to becoming a legacy builder with a life of purpose and fulfillment, this conversation will show you how. Listen now to discover the mindset and strategies that can transform your journey. [00:00 - 10:32] Seasons of Entrepreneurship Embrace the chaos of early entrepreneurship. Forget balance; focus on a blended life. Efficiency grows by knowing your strengths. [10:33 - 20:48] Mastering Efficiency and Delegation Review tasks to find what aligns with your strengths Delegate low-value activities to save time Focus on high-impact tasks for growth [20:49 - 30:44] Creating Transferable Business Value Build systems so your business runs without you. Create recurring revenue for sustainability Make your business scalable and investor-ready [30:45 - 40:28] The Fulfillment Equation: Life After Exit Define your purpose with unlimited time and resources Find identity outside of your business Fulfillment comes from serving and leaving a legacy [40:29 - 50:21] Legacy Beyond Business Build systems that empower others Prioritize relationships and mentorship Align your work with your core values Key Quotes: “There’s no such thing as balance; there’s a blended life where you’re present in every season.” - Justin Goodbread “If you had unlimited time and resources, what would you do tomorrow that you’re not doing today?” - Justin Goodbread Connect with Justin! YT Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JustinGoodbread Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justingoodbread Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How much is your reputation worth, and how does it impact your future? In this inspiring conversation, Dave Fulk unpacks the power of personal and business reputation in shaping success. From his entrepreneurial beginnings to partnering with top industry leaders, Dave shares valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, and building a purposeful legacy. Listeners will learn the art of creating a strong online presence, hiring A-players who drive excellence, and understanding the key differences between branding and marketing. Expect actionable insights on how your reputation can influence business valuation, attract the right opportunities, and secure long-term growth. [00:00 - 03:04] A Million-Dollar Wake-Up Call Waking up is worth more than a million dollars Adopting the "best day of my life" mindset Resilience and positivity are keys to success [03:05 - 07:04] From Shoveling Snow to Sitting on Boards Dave’s snow-shoveling business and early teamwork Discovering entrepreneurial instincts Partnering with Kevin Harrington from Shark Tank [07:05 - 14:31] Building Dream Teams and A-Players Hiring A-players and defining their traits Building a purpose-driven culture Fostering continuous improvement in teams [14:32 - 25:15] The Difference Between Branding and Marketing Marketing is what you say; branding is what others say The "city block" analogy for reputation management Importance of online visibility and trust [25:16 - 35:19] Reputation’s Impact on Business Valuation Reputation accounts for 20% of a company’s valuation Challenges in hiring for poorly reputed companies Building trust for long-term business success [35:20 - 47:52] Lessons in Lifelong Learning and Resilience Lifelong learning, persistence, and curiosity Resilience as a cornerstone of growth Dave’s mantra: "Act like waking up is worth a million dollars" Key Quotes: "If waking up tomorrow is worth more than a million dollars, act like it." - Dave Fulk "You don’t hire A-players just to do a job; you hire them to challenge the status quo." - Dave Fulk Connect with Dave! Website:https://www.davefulk.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davefulk/ Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever considered what comes next after stepping away from the grind of running a business? Jerome Myers, America's leading exit authority, dives deep into the journey of navigating life beyond the exit. From understanding the emotional shifts to embracing new opportunities, Jerome reveals the tools and insights to thrive in your next chapter. This episode explores the transformative Neo Transition Assessment, inspired by the philosophy of The Matrix. It helps uncover how your unique personality can guide you through change with clarity and confidence.  Whether you're planning your next step or simply curious, this episode invites you to step into a future aligned with your dreams. [00:00 - 02:07] Welcome & Overview Introduction to Jerome Myers, host Matt Halloran, and the concept of life after business exits The purpose of the NEO Transition Assessment is to understand post-exit challenges [02:08 - 06:07] Origins of the Assessment Why did Jerome develop the assessment and its unique focus on exits as transformational opportunities? Insight into the emotional and strategic hurdles of life transitions [06:08 - 10:15] The Matrix & Archetypes Explained The influence of The Matrix on the six archetypes: Neo, Oracle, Morpheus, Trinity, Architect, and Agent Smith How these archetypes create a shared language for growth and coaching relationships [10:16 - 20:59] Exploring the Archetypes in Depth Characteristics of each archetype and their relevance in handling change and uncertainty Jerome’s reflection on his Morpheus archetype and its guiding role [21:00 - 29:02] The Six Centers of Doubt Self-image, relationships, work, health, prosperity, and significance: the key areas impacted during transitions How the NEO Transition Assessment offers personalized insights for navigating these challenges [30:03 -35:12] Who Should Take the Assessment? This assessment is valuable for anyone at a crossroads, especially entrepreneurs preparing for an exit The importance of clarity and preparation in navigating the Founders Exit Paradox Key Quotes: "The Neo Transition Assessment helps uncover the tools you need to navigate what's next with confidence." - Jerome Myers "Stepping into the wilderness of the unknown is where true growth begins." - Jerome Myers Ready for your next chapter? Start Your Assessment Now 👉 https://theexitparadox.com/assessment Leave a Review + Help Others Achieve a Great Legacy If you found this episode valuable, leave us a review and share it with someone who wants to expand their business growth. Your Next is more than a podcast—it’s a community that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and ages, united by a shared passion for personal growth and achieving excellence.  🎧 Explore our previous episodes or learn more about our mission at https://exittoexcellence.com. Your next chapter starts here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices