Stuck In My Mind Podcast

Hosted by Wil ”Wize” Otero

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Oct 2026

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🎙️ Stuck In My Mind Podcast – Hosted by Wil “Wize” Otero Real conversations. Real people. Real growth. From the heart of the Poconos, Wil “Wize” Otero podcaster, life coach, and CEO of Real Wize Global Media dives deep into the minds of creators, entrepreneurs, and everyday visionaries who turned their struggles into success stories. Raw. Unfiltered. Empowering. Stuck In My Mind isn’t just a podcast it’s a movement for those ready to break mental barriers and live with purpose. 🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and remember: you’re not stuck you’re just getting started.

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October 21, 2026Episode 30751 min

EP 307 Your Accountant Is Full of $.H.I.T. — A CPA Explains What That Really Means

Your Accountant Is Full of $.H.I.T. — A CPA Explains What That Really Means What if the biggest problem between you and your accountant isn’t your taxes, but the fact that neither of you is speaking the same language? On this episode of Stuck In My Mind Podcast, Wize El Jefe sits down with CPA, personal financial specialist, certified financial planner, tax educator, speaker, and author Cecily V. Welch for a straight-talking conversation about taxes, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and finding professional help that actually fits your life. With more than three decades of experience, Cecily V. Welch explains why people often leave meetings with their accountants more confused than when they arrived. Her upcoming book, Your Accountant Is Full of Shit, uses the acronym S.H.I.T. to describe accountants who are “Shortsighted, Hesitant, and Intimidated by Taxes.” The title is bold, but the message is serious: clients and accountants frequently misunderstand each other because expectations, responsibilities, and communication are unclear. At 09:26, Cecily V. Welch breaks down why a large tax refund may not be the financial win many people assume it is. A refund generally means you paid too much throughout the year and gave the government an interest-free loan. At the same time, she explains why intentionally overpaying can make sense for people who use a refund as a forced savings strategy. The point is to make the decision with intent. The conversation also covers the difference between tax preparation and tax planning. Tax preparation looks backward and helps you remain compliant after the year has ended. Tax planning happens throughout the year and focuses on timing, income, expenses, and long-term strategy. As Cecily V. Welch explains at 25:21, not everyone needs a tax planner right away, but growing businesses and people with more complicated financial situations may need more than a once-a-year tax filing. Wize El Jefe and Cecily V. Welch also discuss 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, FSAs, HSAs, health insurance, and the tax consequences that can hide behind everyday financial choices. At 16:20, Cecily V. Welch explains how an HSA works with a high-deductible health plan and why it can serve as both a way to pay medical expenses with pre-tax dollars and, for some people, an additional retirement savings tool. For entrepreneurs, this episode delivers an important reality check. At 43:47, Cecily V. Welch explains that many business owners realize too late that they have actually started a business. If you’re trying to make a profit and want to claim business expenses, you may already have obligations, even if you haven’t created a legal entity or opened a separate business bank account. She also discusses estimated taxes, separating personal and business money, paying yourself, and why new business owners should speak with someone who understands startups before tax season becomes a financial emergency. The episode explores how artificial intelligence can support accountants without replacing their judgment. At 22:11, Cecily V. Welch explains that AI can handle calculations and comparisons, but discernment still matters. The strongest approach may be using technology to organize information and crunch numbers, then bringing the results to a qualified professional to discuss the real-world impact. Whether you’re working a 9-to-5, building a business, investing for retirement, choosing health insurance, or trying to understand what your accountant is telling you, this conversation offers practical guidance without hiding behind jargon. Listen as Wize El Jefe and Cecily V. Welch unpack what it means to find the right accountant, ask better questions, understand your money, and turn professional financial support from a cost into an investment.

October 15, 2026Episode 30640 min

EP 306 From Personal Frustration to a Multimillion-Dollar Water Filtration Company

Episode Description What does it take to turn a personal frustration into a trusted company? In this episode of Stuck In My Mind Podcast, Wize El Jefe sits down with Eric Krubanov, founder and CEO of RKIN , a water filtration company helping homeowners understand and improve the quality of the water entering their homes. Eric Krubanov shares how his entrepreneurial journey began after moving from Uzbekistan to the United States at 17. His first experience with water filtration came after purchasing a home on a private well, where he discovered the convenience of having filtered drinking water. Years later, after moving to a home with municipal water, he found himself buying bottled water again and began searching for a better solution. That search led him to reverse osmosis systems, a $200 purchase from Costco, and eventually a business opportunity. While working at a local quarry, Eric Krubanov began installing similar systems for members of his crew. Their interest showed him that there was a real demand, but it also revealed a larger problem: water filtration products were often difficult to install, expensive, and confusing for everyday homeowners. The conversation explores how Eric Krubanov recognized the need for a countertop reverse osmosis system that required no plumbing connection, no landlord permission, and no professional installation. He also talks openly about ordering inventory too early, running out of money, storing products wherever he could, and learning that business growth cannot be forced before demand is established. For anyone waiting to feel ready, Eric Krubanov offers a direct reminder: “I have never had a feeling of being fully ready.” He explains why founders have to believe in themselves, focus on small wins, and keep moving instead of trying to go “from zero to hero.” The episode also covers the systems that helped Eric Krubanov scale businesses and teams. He explains why written playbooks and standard operating procedures allow people to know what to do without depending on the founder for every decision. He also discusses the difficult adjustment leaders face when moving from being too soft, to too strict, and eventually finding a balanced approach built on respect and clear expectations. Trust is another major theme. Eric Krubanov explains why RKIN focuses on educating customers, presenting facts and options, and allowing people to make their own decisions. He contrasts that approach with high-pressure sales tactics that use fear, misleading water tests, and inflated prices. The discussion also examines water quality, bottled water, microplastics, PFAS, heavy metals, and why boiling water may not remove many of the contaminants homeowners are concerned about. Eric Krubanov encourages listeners to learn what is in their local water and take practical steps before a serious health concern forces the issue. This episode is for entrepreneurs building while working through uncertainty, homeowners trying to make informed choices, and anyone who has ever felt stuck because the perfect plan never appeared. It is a conversation about starting before you feel ready, building trust through transparency, creating systems that support growth, and solving a real problem without losing sight of your values.

September 29, 2026Episode 30559 min

EP 305 From Survival to Strategic Momentum with Dan McPherson

What does it take to move from survival mode to a life built around calm, clarity, connection, and purpose? In this episode of Stuck In My Mind Podcast, Dan McPherson, founder and CEO of Leaders Must Lead, shares the difficult road behind the confident, calm, and purpose-driven person he is today. He opens up about growing up with anxiety, depression, an abusive alcoholic father, and experiences that taught him survival was something he had to fight for 02:05. Dan also speaks candidly about surviving a suicide attempt at 16 and the unexpected kindness that helped save his life. A woman who didn’t know the depth of his struggle noticed he was having a difficult day, offered him a ride, and spent hours talking with him. Dan reflects on how ordinary moments can have extraordinary impact, especially when someone is struggling to reach out 04:56. The conversation explores the difference between refusing to ask for help and not having the capacity to do so. Dan explains why reaching for someone in pain can matter more than we realize, and how empathy is often shaped by the struggles people have survived themselves 08:18. Dan shares how his second suicide attempt forced him to question the identity he had built around insecurity, ego, money, achievement, and leadership. Instead of asking who others wanted him to be, he began asking, “Who do I want to be?” That question became the starting point for rebuilding his life 16:01. Leadership is another central theme. Dan explains the difference between managing tasks and leading people, arguing that leadership is influence and that every person leads in some way, whether intentionally or not. For him, effective leadership is rooted in connection and movement, helping people feel seen, heard, understood, and part of meaningful progress 29:04. Dan also breaks down his calm, clarity, and focus framework. He explains why ambitious people often skip calm, how stress can create tunnel vision, and why calm must come first before clear decision-making is possible 31:27. He shares practical exercises involving gratitude and daily growth, including writing down three new things to appreciate and recording one way to move forward each day 35:19. Later, Dan reflects on surviving four heart attacks in one year, divorce, a global pandemic, and the loss of physical abilities he once took for granted. Those experiences changed his relationship with mortality, presence, empathy, and purpose. He explains how painful experiences can equip people to reach others they could never have helped before 45:57. This episode is a powerful conversation about adversity, suicide prevention, personal growth, leadership, relationships, purpose, and the belief that dreams can become real through action. As Dan puts it, “People matter most and relationships are everything.”

September 25, 2026Episode 30438 min

EP 304 Why Entrepreneurs Should Plan Their Exit on Day One

Why Entrepreneurs Should Plan Their Exit on Day One Entrepreneurs spend years learning how to sell, market, hire, lead, manage cash flow, and grow revenue. But many never stop to ask what they’re ultimately building toward. In this episode of Stuck In My Mind Podcast, Wize El Jefe sits down with wealth management advisor and certified exit planning advisor Duane Rollins to explore business ownership, financial stewardship, legacy, and the importance of planning your exit from the very beginning. Duane Rollins shares the unconventional path that led him from engineering and a passion for designing cars to wealth management, Broadway producing, technology, education, and nonprofit work. His experiences co-producing Tony-nominated productions, helping build a charter high school, and advocating for STEM education shaped his belief that business owners influence far more than their own financial outcomes. Their decisions affect employees, families, partners, and entire communities. The conversation also introduces the 12 Dimensions Framework, Duane Rollins’s approach to helping entrepreneurs understand that wealth isn’t simply about making money. It’s about becoming a better steward of income, managing cash flow, building relationships, developing skills, using effective tax strategies, growing capital, and creating fulfillment through thoughtful financial decisions. At 10:34, Duane Rollins explains why traditional retirement planning can leave business owners unprepared. Many assume their expenses will automatically decrease in the future, even as inflation continues to raise the cost of living. A business may be successful today, but if it depends entirely on the owner, that success may not translate into a valuable or transferable company. The central lesson arrives at 28:06: every entrepreneur should be prepared to exit their business on day one. That doesn’t mean they need to sell immediately. It means building a resilient, profitable operation with documented processes, strong financial controls, an appropriate legal structure, capable employees, and transferable value. A business that can operate without its owner is more flexible, more valuable, and less likely to collapse when unexpected challenges arise. Duane Rollins and Wize El Jefe also discuss the danger of trying to do everything alone. Entrepreneurs can pay for a lack of support with time, money, or both. The right team, advisors, and relationships create room for owners to focus on the work that inspired them to start in the first place. The episode goes beyond selling a company. It examines what happens after the sale, when an entrepreneur may lose the identity, routine, relationships, and purpose connected to the business. Duane Rollins encourages owners to build a life beyond the company before they exit, so their future doesn’t begin only after the transaction is complete. Listeners will also hear why an exit can take many forms: selling to an outside buyer, transitioning the company to an employee, passing it to family, or bringing in professional leadership while the family maintains ownership and governance. The right path depends on the owner’s goals and the people involved. For entrepreneurs building a company, planning an exit isn’t giving up. It’s creating options. This episode offers a practical and personal look at how business owners can build companies that serve their families, teams, communities, and the legacy they hope to leave behind.

September 10, 2026Episode 30341 min

EP 303 ADHD, Procrastination, and the Nervous System Behind Self-Sabotage

In this episode of Stuck In My Mind Podcast, Wize El Jefe sits down with Theresa, founder of Becoming More Me, bestselling author, keynote speaker, EFT master practitioner, hypnotherapist, wife, and mother of four. The conversation explores what ADHD, high-functioning anxiety, trauma, perfectionism, and overwhelm can look like behind closed doors. Theresa describes the noisy mental loop of running through lists at midnight, rehearsing conversations, rewriting messages, second-guessing decisions, and feeling behind before the day even begins at 02:29. She also shares how success can become an endless cycle when achievement provides only a few minutes of satisfaction before attention shifts to the next goal at 03:56. After receiving an ADHD diagnosis, Theresa began to understand her inconsistency, scattered focus, difficulty prioritizing, and unfinished projects with more compassion. The diagnosis helped her recognize that anxiety was not separate from ADHD, but could develop through years of masking, compensating, and trying to keep up at 07:36. The episode takes a deeper look at procrastination and self-sabotage. Theresa explains how nervous system activation can appear as freezing, researching instead of acting, staying busy while avoiding the important task, or repeatedly promising to start on Monday at 15:09. She also distinguishes procrastination from avoidance, emphasizing awareness and paying attention to what happens in the body when a task or feeling comes to mind at 18:27. Success itself can feel threatening when it leads into unfamiliar territory. Theresa explains how the subconscious often prefers the familiar, even when the familiar is stressful, because it feels survivable at 16:53. She discusses hidden beliefs around rest, hypervigilance, difficulty, money, and the fear that success might cost someone their health, relationships, or security. Wize El Jefe and Theresa also explore EFT tapping, hypnotherapy, subconscious patterns, and the “Finish What You Started” method, a seven-minute audio practice designed to support progress without relying solely on willpower or high-functioning anxiety at 27:30. For anyone with ADHD, unfinished projects, a busy mind, or a habit of turning self-criticism into motivation, Theresa offers a different starting point: get curious instead of critical. Beating yourself up reinforces the identity you are trying to change, while smaller steps can help your nervous system experience completion as safe at 33:25.

August 4, 2026Episode 30250 min

EP 302 Turning Passion Into Profit: How Tanny Diep Built a Thriving Beauty Business

Turning Passion Into Profit: How Tanny Diep Built a Thriving Beauty Business In this inspiring episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe sits down with beauty entrepreneur, educator, and business coach Tanny Diep. Together, they dive deep into the realities of turning passion into profit, overcoming self-doubt, and building a successful business and brand from the ground up—even when the odds seem stacked against you. From Humble Beginnings to Beauty Boss Tanny Diep opens up about her early life as the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants. Growing up, she watched her mother work tirelessly as a nail technician and eventually open her own nail salons—an experience that planted the seeds for Tanny Diep’s love for beauty and business (01:44). But despite her early exposure, entrepreneurship wasn't always on her radar. Like many with immigrant backgrounds, she felt family pressure to pursue “stable” careers like medicine or law (02:38). After a detour into business school and a decade-long stint in the fashion industry, Tanny Diep found herself burned out by corporate life (05:05). It was her journey through a transformative 200-hour yoga teacher training that gave her the self-belief and discipline to pursue her own dreams (05:58). This pivotal experience not only helped her address limiting mindsets and past trauma but also equipped her with the resilience and clarity necessary for entrepreneurship (06:55). Taking the Leap Pivoting from fashion, Tanny Diep discovered microblading and permanent makeup—a field where she could combine her creativity with her desire to help others feel confident (09:16). She didn’t simply leap blindly; she crafted a practical, year-long exit strategy from her corporate job, committing to training, building her skills, and slowly growing a client base on nights and weekends (09:47). Her candid retelling of working seven days a week, facing burnout and fear, and the uncertainty of “going all in” delivers a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is rarely glamorous at the outset (09:53). Through family support and her own determination, Tanny Diep opened her first solo studio in late 2018. Even with humble beginnings—a 100-square-foot room with no windows—she used her background in sales, marketing, and design to set herself apart and attract clients (13:07). Her big break came after a successful client transformation and a single, well-placed social media ad, which filled her entire first month and brought in more income than she had ever earned in a single month (14:44). But as she shares, maintaining momentum meant commitment and facing her fears every step of the way (15:55). Leveraging Content and Building an Authentic Brand One of Tanny Diep’s most critical success factors was her commitment to consistent, authentic content creation (16:14). She candidly talks about starting from zero followers, making a vow to post something every single day, and using her creativity and research to discover what resonated with her audience—ultimately going viral with behind-the-scenes content that showcased her process and skill (18:01). This relentless discipline in showing up on social media not only drove bookings but also positioned her as an industry leader. Juggling the roles of artist and business owner was no easy feat, as she balanced performing high-stakes, artistic procedures during the day with the administrative, marketing, and growth tasks at night (19:50). Yet, Tanny Diep credits her yoga background for cultivating the discipline and mindset needed to consistently “work on her business”—not just in it—and never allow herself to simply wonder where her next client was coming from (21:04). Why Many Talented Artists Struggle The reality, Tanny Diep explains, is that talent alone is rarely enough. Most beauty schools—and even advanced training courses—teach technical skills but neglect essential business topics, such as branding, marketing, operations, and client retention (25:13). For many creative professionals, the daunting leap from technician to entrepreneur comes without a roadmap: imposter syndrome, lack of business acumen, and a misunderstanding of what it takes to attract and keep clients can derail even the most passionate artists (26:19). Together, Wize El Jefe and Tanny Diep reflect on their parallel experiences in building something from scratch—sharing stories about self-doubt, the importance of investing in yourself, and the power of believing in your vision long before it yields tangible results (27:30; 28:19). They stress that a growth mindset, nurtured through gratitude and journaling, is as vital as technical expertise (29:07). Sustainable Success, Impact, and Giving Back Now a 7-figure business owner and sought-after educator, Tanny Diep has channeled her success into supporting other professionals. She describes the fulfillment of launching her own academy, teaching both skills and business strategy, and mentoring students who have now outpaced their own expectations (42:23). Her commitment to not gatekeeping knowledge sets her apart in an industry rife with “get-rich-quick” educators and scams (43:33). She sees supporting others as the most rewarding aspect of her journey: watching students quit their day jobs, replace their incomes, and find confidence in their calling (43:00). Both Wize El Jefe and Tanny Diep agree that, in the long run, passion-driven purpose and authentic service will always outlast a fixation on money (39:46). The episode is filled with hard-won wisdom about how even a 1% improvement every day, sustained over years, leads to mastery and, eventually, the confidence to achieve any goal (46:02). Advice for Aspiring Beauty Entrepreneurs To close out the conversation, Tanny Diep shares powerful advice for anyone teetering on the edge of starting a business but struggling with fear or imposter syndrome: “Confidence is built through action and clarity” (46:47). She encourages listeners to take the first step—not because it’s the perfect move, but because clarity and confidence only come from doing the work, learning from setbacks, and allowing each experience to guide you closer to your unique path (47:02). Connect and Learn More Listeners interested in Tanny Diep’s services, training, or mentorship opportunities can connect via Sway Brows Academy and Studio or follow her social accounts to access resources, events, and community (48:20). This episode is a must-listen for any aspiring entrepreneur, beauty professional, or creative looking for real talk about building a brand, overcoming fear, and finding fulfillment through disciplined, purpose-driven work. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the grind, Tanny Diep’s candid story will inspire you to take action, invest deeply in your vision, and build a business—and a life—on your own terms.

July 8, 2026Episode 30155 min

EP 301 Finding Purpose Beyond Transactions: Mark Steiner on Entrepreneurship, Adoption, and Emotional Intelligence

In this deeply engaging episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host W I Z E sits down with Mark Steiner—entrepreneur, storyteller, creative leader, and co-founder/CEO of GigSalad—for a raw and heartfelt conversation that transcends the boundaries of typical business podcasts. This episode explores the invisible but powerful threads that connect personal history, emotional resilience, and entrepreneurial vision, offering listeners a rare blend of practical insight and emotional inspiration. From the outset, Mark Steiner shares the formative experiences that shaped his worldview, beginning with his adoption at birth and the dual birthday/gotcha celebrations that became a cherished family tradition. Mark opens up about the psychological nuances of being adopted—the feelings of abandonment, the storytelling the mind does in the absence of facts, and the journey toward self-acceptance and healing. In a particularly moving segment, both Mark and the host reflect on their own experiences of parental separation and reconciliation, highlighting universal themes of loss, personal narrative, and the search for closure in adulthood 02:05. Mark traces his path through the entertainment industry, revealing how his early passion for acting and music was, in part, motivated by a desire to prove his worth—by striving for popularity or recognition as a surrogate for self-love. He candidly discusses his inclination toward masking and role-shifting throughout life, later realizing these were responses to both his adoption and, as discovered much later, undiagnosed ADHD 10:19. A pivotal point in the episode is Mark’s late diagnosis of ADHD, prompted by his daughter’s own journey. Mark describes the immense relief and self-forgiveness that came with the diagnosis, but also a sense of mourning for the years spent struggling without understanding the true nature of his challenges 25:10. He reflects on the impact ADHD had on his drive, his struggles with focus, and how it unwittingly steered him toward entrepreneurship, a path filled with creativity, flexibility, and opportunities to design systems that work for neurodivergent minds. Listeners are granted a behind-the-scenes look at the birth of GigSalad, Mark’s game-changing company that connects event planners with performers, speakers, and service providers. Mark recounts the original problem that inspired its creation: local entertainers and event planners kept reaching out to him for help, despite it not being his business focus. Rather than turning them away, Mark saw the opportunity for a platform that could democratize access to gigs, fostering community and enabling creatives to connect directly with those who need their talents. This ethos of service-over-transactions is reflected throughout the company’s growth, culture, and continued success 20:43. The conversation shifts into the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ) and its profound relevance for leaders, creatives, and anyone aspiring to make a positive difference in the world. Mark discusses learning about EQ years into his business journey, realizing that his instinctive focus on relationship-building, intention, kindness, and authenticity was not only legitimate but truly essential for building a company culture where people thrive 30:45. He emphasizes that leadership grounded in EQ, rather than titles or credentials, empowers teams to achieve exceptional results—and, perhaps even more importantly, to find joy in the process 32:11. This episode is not just about personal and professional growth, but about the ripple effect of courageous vulnerability. Listeners will hear about the power of finding one’s voice—whether through starting a podcast, publishing a book, or launching a new creative venture—and how, by sharing our stories and supporting others, we walk each other “home” through life’s uncertainties 39:33. The host and Mark bond over their mutual commitment to helping others fulfill their dreams, underlining the idea that the truest form of leadership and success comes from lifting others up. Mark also shares his excitement for the future: launching a new personal platform (thinkopon.com), returning to acting, expanding his podcast presence, and embracing a season of creativity with renewed purpose. His message to anyone feeling overlooked or different is empowering: start within, find your peace, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and remember you are valuable and capable of making a difference 51:43. Key Topics Explored: The hidden impact of adoption on identity and self-worth Adult ADHD diagnosis and its transformative effect The accidental, then intentional, journey into entrepreneurship Building a values-based, EQ-driven company culture at GigSalad The power of self-taught skills, street smarts, and lifelong learning The true meaning of leadership—connection, empathy, and helping others find their gig Resilience, creative reinvention, and the joy of second acts in life Why Listen to This Episode? If you’re an entrepreneur, creative, leader—or simply someone navigating complex personal histories—this episode will give you hope, actionable insights, and a sense of being seen. Mark Steiner’s story is a testament to the idea that life’s greatest challenges can become launching pads for profound impact, and that genuine success is never just about transactions, but about helping everyone “rise together.” Tune in for a conversation packed with vulnerability, wisdom, humor, and the kind of encouragement every creative or entrepreneur needs on the path to finding their purpose—and helping others do the same.

June 16, 2026Episode 30047 min

EP 300 Leading With Heart: Aligning Purpose, Performance, and People for Sustainable Success

In this thought-provoking episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe is joined by leadership strategist and Heartnomics founder Hannah Bauer for a powerful conversation on resilience, leadership, and system transformation. Drawing from her remarkable journey of surviving severe heart disease as a child and later pioneering a groundbreaking heart procedure, Hannah Bau shares how early lessons about rhythm and recovery in the human body shaped her enduring philosophy about organizational health, leadership, and purpose. Listeners are taken through Hannah Bauer’s deeply personal story: from formative years spent battling tachycardia and living within the painful uncertainty of chronic illness, to emerging as an industry leader and innovator. She reflects on the parallels between physiological disruption and dysfunctional organizational systems. Just as the heart must maintain steady rhythms for the body to thrive, organizations require well-aligned processes and clear communication to avoid chaos, burnout, and constant rework. Hannah Bauer details her unconventional path to leadership, which began not in a boardroom, but from a hospital bed, where service and observation became her best teachers. Inspired by the volunteers that impacted her life, she gravitated toward service, eventually understanding—through firsthand experience and mentorship—that leadership is service. Her community work in Georgia, involvement in university organizations, and eventual rise to positions such as CEO, board chair, and executive director are woven together by a commitment to purposeful service and systemic clarity. A significant portion of the episode focuses on organizational dynamics: Why do well-intentioned teams still get stuck? Hannah Bauer unpacks the difference between people-related issues and system misalignments, warning of the dangers of over-reliance on charismatic leaders and the stagnation that results when authority is not fully delegated through clear, actionable processes. She stresses the importance of access, communication, and shared understanding, and warns about the silent dangers of silos, where departments become disconnected and critical information fails to flow. Listeners gain insight into Lean Six Sigma, as Hannah Bauer, a certified Black Belt, explains how the methodology can identify hidden wastes in organizations, particularly the often-overlooked "loss of human potential." She shares real-world examples of how businesses—especially during disruptions or market shifts—must scrutinize their processes, question their assumptions, and focus not just on the adoption of new systems but on their purposeful integration. Throughout the episode, practical strategies are offered for leaders wanting to move from a reactive, survival mentality to achieving sustainable success. Hannah Bauer advises on how to uncover the root causes behind persistent symptoms (like high turnover, low productivity, or missed opportunities), emphasizing continual inquiry: How do you know that your team knows what you expect of them? She encourages leaders to see pressure and disruption as opportunities to reveal underlying issues and recommends periodic reflection—comparing the stress tests of medical diagnostics to stress-testing one’s organizational culture. Wize and Hannah Bauer also delve into the evolution of industries in the face of technological change, like the shift from print to digital publishing or the rise of AI, drawing lessons on adaptability and the dangers of losing organizational identity amid rapid change. Hannah Bau explains how clarity of purpose and a strong sense of mission help teams remain resilient when the external environment is volatile. The episode closes with inspiring, actionable advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed or burned out, whether at work or in life. Hannah Bauer urges listeners to breathe, reflect on what is actually within their control, and seek community—reminding us that excellence, not perfection, is the goal. She highlights the transformative power of coaching and supportive relationships, drawing from both her personal and professional experiences to remind leaders that pressure is not the enemy, but a catalyst for growth and innovation. Key Topics Discussed: How childhood illness shaped a holistic view of leadership and systems The journey from service to strategic leadership roles Differentiating between people problems and process problems The dangers of decision bottlenecks and organizational silos Importance of common language/culture in execution and delivery Lean Six Sigma and identifying the waste of human potential Navigating industry disruption and preserving organizational identity What to do when implementation of new systems falls flat The role of love, trust, and community in corporate culture Moving from survival mode to sustainable, purposeful growth Why excellence—not perfection—should be the target for innovative leadership Who Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for business leaders, managers, entrepreneurs, non-profit directors, and anyone interested in leadership, organizational development, or personal resilience. Whether you’re leading through disruption, trying to realign your systems, or simply seeking encouragement to move forward after setbacks, Hannah Bau’s wisdom and Wise’s insightful questions offer both robust frameworks and authentic inspiration. Discover more about Hannah Bauer, Heartnomics, and her assessment tools at heartnomics.com . Subscribe and share this episode with anyone navigating organizational or personal transformation—the tools for lasting change might be just a heartbeat away

June 1, 2026Episode 29946 min

EP 299 Unlocking Freedom: Jeremy Shapiro’s Playbook for Scaling Your Business Without Burnout

In this powerhouse episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, host Wize El Jefe sits down with serial entrepreneur, business coach, and acclaimed author Jeremy Shapiro for a masterclass in transforming your business from a self-created job into a true asset that delivers freedom, not burnout. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your own company, confused busyness with progress, or wondered how to escape the endless hustle, this conversation brings actionable insights and eye-opening advice you won’t want to miss. About the Guest Jeremy Shapiro has spent nearly three decades helping entrepreneurs build scalable, sustainable, and sellable businesses. Featured on NPR, Fox News, and major outlets worldwide, he specializes in guiding founders through the transformational leap from solopreneur to true business owner—allowing them to reclaim their time, health, and creativity, while building assets that create generational wealth. Key Themes & Discussion Highlights The Solopreneur Trap: Are You Growing a Business or a Job? Early in the conversation, Wize and Jeremy break down the critical distinction between being "self-employed" and being a "business owner." Jeremy shares from experience that many enthusiastic founders unknowingly build businesses that trap them, taking on all the risk and workload but missing the freedom entrepreneurship promises. If the business can’t run without you, says Speaker B, it’s a job—one you could end up resenting (02:03). Builder or Grinder? Why Mindset Matters Reflecting on his own path, Jeremy identifies as a lifelong builder—someone who thrives on creating systems, solutions, and opportunities for others (03:01). This mindset, he explains, is key to scaling successfully. The pitfall? Confusing activity with progress. Entrepreneurs often wear busyness like a badge of honor, but as Jeremy reveals, tracking where your time actually goes often exposes unprofitable patterns (03:43). Systems, Delegation, and the Power of Marginal Gains Building a true business means learning to let go. For many, this is a massive mindset shift. Jeremy discusses why perfectionism (“nobody can do this as well as I can!”) is the enemy of growth (07:00). Instead, he urges founders to document and systematize repeatable tasks, define success clearly, and empower new team members to take ownership. This approach not only enables scale—it’s essential for sanity and sustainability. The episode takes a deep dive into the concept of "small hinges swing big doors." Through the story of the British cycling team’s transformation, listeners learn how stacking tiny, 1% improvements can completely change business outcomes (17:55). These marginal gains—whether it’s a tweak to onboarding, pricing, or lead generation—compound into massive wins. Finding (and Freeing) Hidden Profit Plateaus are normal in business, but they signal it’s time to work smarter, not harder. With his trademark clarity, Speaker B outlines the three levers that can reignite growth and profitability. Sometimes, he advises, it’s about refining the business model or optimizing pricing; other times, it’s about adopting new channels or outsourcing for leverage (14:28). A standout moment is his pricing masterclass. Speaker B challenges the common founder fallacy of undercharging for unique expertise—and shares a real-life story of helping a client 10x her consulting fees by shifting from time-based to value-based pricing (33:09). He explains how minor price increases can double profit margins, even if customer numbers stay flat. Building an Asset, Not Just a Paycheck One of the most profound insights arrives as Jeremy explains why every founder should design their business with an exit in mind—even if they never intend to sell. Businesses tend to follow one of three paths: shut down, pass to family, or become a sellable asset. Building with sale in mind forces owners to create systems, document roles, and make the company valuable to someone else (24:36). This not only maximizes future wealth—it also gives more freedom now. The story of a business owner forced to systematize after a health scare is a wake-up call about why founders must set their businesses up to run (and grow) without them (25:33). Ultimately, the goal is for founders to work on their business, not just in it—unlocking not just profit, but the optionality to travel, launch new projects, or simply take a real vacation. The Power of Niching & Specialization For those feeling "stuck" on a plateau, Jeremy recommends strategic niching. By narrowing focus and speaking directly to an ideal customer, businesses can increase pricing power, dominate specialist markets, and avoid the trap of being a replaceable commodity (39:39). The episode includes memorable stories of sub-niching (even among high-net-worth clients) and how hyper-specialization can actually expand total addressable markets. Actionable Takeaways Track Your Time: Perform a time diary to uncover true time drains (03:43). Document and Delegate: Systematize your most repetitive (yet “unique”) tasks and build clear success metrics (07:00). Test Your Pricing: Move beyond time-based to value-based pricing and experiment with incremental increases (33:09). Niche and Specialize: Don’t be afraid to narrow your market; the more specific, the more profitable (39:39). Build for Sale: Even if you intend to own your business forever, design it so it could thrive—and grow—without you (24:36). Leverage Expertise: Get outside help where needed and find leverage through people, systems, or partners (22:45). Assess Optionality: True freedom is having the choice of where, when, and how you work. Build towards options, not obligations (23:34). Why This Episode Is a Must-Listen This episode isn’t just for business owners on the brink of burnout—it’s for anyone who wants to future-proof their company, escape the hamster wheel, and reclaim their entrepreneurial purpose. Real stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical frameworks from Jeremy"s 30 years in the trenches provide inspiration and guidance for businesses at every stage. Whether you’re stuck grinding out 12-hour days or approaching your first big plateau, this conversation is packed with paradigm shifts, strategies, and tools to help you break through and build a business that truly works for you. About the Book Looking to go deeper? Jeremy Shapiro's book, Your Business Growth Playbook, takes listeners further into the systems, checklists, and methodologies discussed throughout the episode. Access free resources, audio samples, and more at yourbusinessgrowthplaybook.com (44:02). Join the Conversation Listen, take notes, and share this episode with any entrepreneur you know who feels tied down by their business. This might be the moment—and roadmap—they need to claim the entrepreneurial freedom they set out for in the first place.

May 5, 2026Episode 29851 min

EP 298 Becoming a Cultural Catalyst: Transforming Leadership and Culture Through Connection and Change

Welcome to a transformative episode of the Stuck In My Mind Podcast, hosted by Wize El Jefe and featuring the insightful Jacqueline Oren, creator of the Culture Catalyst system and co-founder/CEO of the Coaching Catalyst Network. In this powerful conversation, Jacqueline Oren explores the depths of cultural change, personal transformation, and leadership in today's rapidly evolving world. The episode opens with Wize El Jefe introducing Jaclyn Orent, highlighting her pioneering approach to cultural transformation and leadership through the Culture Catalyst framework—a system designed to drive real, sustainable change by focusing on relationships, energy, and a shared vision. Jacqueline Oren sheds light on what it means to be a “cultural catalyst”: someone actively instigating cultural evolution not just within organizations, but across society as a whole. She defines culture as an "invisible system" made up of shared norms, behaviors, and the quality of relationships—a living, breathing network shaped by the people within it (02:02). Throughout the episode, Jaclyn Orent draws on decades of research in the science of intentional change, referencing luminaries like Dr. David Hawkins and Richard E. Boyatzes, as well as practical leadership experiences from her own life. She describes a pivotal personal turning point: being fired from her dream job and embarking on a transformative journey—including a 36-day water fast—that fundamentally shifted her focus from personal success to service and conscious leadership (10:39). Listeners hear about the psychological and physiological importance of community among changemakers and leaders, and how isolation can sabotage the larger mission of cultural renewal. Jaclyn Orent emphasizes that for real, systemic change to last, leaders must come together, share resources, and support one another in relationships marked by resonance—a powerful blend of shared vision, compassion, energy, and competence (06:34, 22:47). She introduces the Coaching Catalyst Network, a global community for leaders, as a direct response to the siloed and fragmented reality faced by those striving for cultural evolution. The science of transformation takes center stage as Jacqueline Oren discusses concepts like emotional contagion and resonance, explaining that energy, vibes, and emotional state are not just feel-good platitudes—they are measurable, neurologically impactful, and contagious within social networks and organizations (24:09). These concepts are woven together with scientific rigor and spiritual awareness, synthesizing research and lived experience to provide a holistic road map for anyone seeking change. One of the core themes explored is why change is so hard, both individually and collectively. Jaclyn Orent unpacks the cognitive and embodied barriers to real transformation, noting that mindset alone isn’t enough. Change happens when the mind, body, and deeper consciousness are aligned—and this process is rooted in simultaneous awareness of our mortality, our purpose, our willingness, and our relationships (17:00, 39:57). The episode is rich with practical tools and wisdom. Jaclyn Orent offers actionable advice for listeners stuck between iterations of themselves, encouraging small, courageous steps outside one’s comfort zone to build efficacy and momentum (48:28). She also unpacks the idea of legacy and the power that comes from accepting our mortality, suggesting that this humility can drive us to use our finite time intentionally, focusing less on fear and more on meaningful impact (40:03). As the conversation unfolds, Wize El Jefe shares his personal journey—how podcasting and a deliberate shift in mindset led to profound changes in his life, from health transformations to new professional opportunities. This personal sharing bridges the gap between theory and practice, showing that everyone, regardless of where they are, can take steps to step into a new identity, challenge self-imposed limits, and catalyze change, both in themselves and the wider world (33:44). Jaclyn Orent also talks about integrating science and spirituality in leadership development, highlighting her research partnerships and the importance of coherence between consciousness, intention, and systemic change (28:29). She explains how the Culture Catalyst system and network operate not just as theoretical constructs but as concrete communities where leaders can find support, challenge, and inspiration. In closing, this episode is a call to action for anyone feeling "stuck"—whether personally, professionally, or within the broader context of societal change. It's an inspiring guide for changemakers, creative thinkers, leaders, and anyone committed to growth. The conversation is a seamless blend of cutting-edge science, spiritual wisdom, and actionable insights guaranteed to ignite new ways of thinking, being, and leading. Connect with Jaclyn Orent and learn about transformational opportunities at CulturalContribution.com, and join Wize El Jefe in building platforms that empower voices and foster collective evolution. Key Topics and Insights: What it means to be a cultural catalyst The science behind change and transformation The power of social identity groups, resonance, and emotional contagion Navigating personal tipping points and life transitions The role of community, relationships, and energy in leadership Practical steps to initiate enduring change Integrating science and spiritual wisdom in leadership Facing the fear of mortality to live and lead on purpose Whether you’re a business leader, a creative, or simply someone ready to step into your next chapter, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and real-world strategies for stepping boldly into a life of conscious impact and growth.