Financial Modeling for Corporate Finance Teams to Unlock Business Without Templates - Carolina Lago
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Carolina Lago, a seasoned FP&A professional, to discuss how financial modelers can transform data into actionable insights while avoiding common modeling pitfalls. Together, they explore best practices in financial modeling, the dangers of hard-coded models, and why structure, flexibility, and clear purpose are essential for effective decision-making. Carolina also shares lessons from her international career, including her experience supporting a major IPO and leading global software implementations.</p><p>Carolina Lago is an FP&A professional with over 15 years of international experience across multiple industries. She ha...
42 min
2026 January 13
How a Texas electric co-op rebuilt for reliability | Sponsored content from Rayburn Electric
<p>As Texas battles another bout of bitterly cold weather, Energy Gang looks at the lessons that one generation and transmission electric co-operative learned from Winter Storm Uri in 2021. The freeze and subsequent shock to energy prices showed providers how dangerous it can be to rely on the market alone.</p><p>For Rayburn Electric, a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative, incurring years of power costs in just days was a catalyst for a fundamental reset of its approach to risk and resilience.</p><p>Host Ed Crooks is joined by Rayburn’s President & CEO David Naylor, and General Counsel Chris Anderson, to hear t...
Using Business Credit to Fund Growth and Acquisitions
<p>Many entrepreneurs leave huge sums of money on the table because they don't understand business credit.</p> <p>In this episode, Ty Crandall, CEO of Credit Suite, breaks down how business credit really works and how online business owners can use it as a serious growth and acquisition tool.</p> <p>We start by unpacking the key differences between business credit and personal credit, and why separating the two is critical if you want to scale responsibly. <br /> <br />Ty explains the types of business credit you can access without personal guarantees and what actually goes into a business...
How Cold Email Really Works Today with Adam Rosen
<p>In this episode of The Rainmaker Podcast, Dakota Founder and CEO Gui Costin sits down with Adam Rosen, founder of an email marketing agency that helps startups, unicorns, and large enterprises generate sales through cold email. The conversation offers a practical, experience-driven look at how cold outreach has evolved, and why it remains one of the most effective tools in modern sales when executed correctly.</p><p>Adam begins by walking through his entrepreneurial origin story, from studying sport management in college to discovering entrepreneurship late in his academic career. That pivot led to his first startup, a college...
Podcasts
What AI Really Means for Housing (And Why Affordability Feels Broken)
<p>Is the U.S. in a housing bubble? Today we break down AI’s real impact on real estate, why affordability feels broken, and what ownership means in today’s economy. 🤓🤓</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbelt Markets (Arizona...
Andrew Fentress on Building a Risk-First Private Credit Platform
<p>In this episode of The Rainmaker Podcast, Gui Costin sits down with Andrew Fentress, Co-Founder of ACRES Capital, to discuss his career path, the formative experiences that shaped his leadership style, and the lessons he carries forward from multiple market cycles. The conversation blends personal background with practical insights on sales, investing, and long-term platform building.</p><p>Fentress begins by tracing his early life in the Washington, D.C. area, where he grew up surrounded by competition, entrepreneurship, and professional athletics. Exposure to business builders and elite performers at a young age instilled an appreciation for discipline, preparation...
Why Structure and Design are Critical Elements of Trust and Credibility in Financial Modeling with Nick Boberg
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst chats with Nick Boberg, a financial modeler and consultant based in Hamilton, New Zealand. Paul and Nick explore the essentials of building well-structured, effective financial models. They discuss Nick’s approach to simplicity and consistency, the importance of clarity in model design, and the role of competition in refining one’s Excel and modeling skills. </p><p>Nick is a financial modeler and the co-founder of Boberg Advisory, a consultancy that specializes in providing financial modeling services to SMEs. With extensive experience as Finance Director at Anglesea Hospital and Asso...
The New Rules of Generational Wealth (High Earners Miss This)
<p>Why do many successful people lose wealth one generation later? This episode breaks down the 5 proven rules that help high earners turn income into lasting, generational wealth. ✨</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbelt Markets (Arizona, Texas, Georgia). For ever...
AI in Finance for Modelers to Succeed by Mastering the Fundamentals with Chris Reilly
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Chris Reilly, founder of Financial Modeling Education, for an insightful discussion on the importance of mastering financial modeling fundamentals in the age of AI. Chris shares his perspective on how AI is transforming the modeling industry, why understanding the basics is more important than ever, and how dynamic arrays are changing the modeling landscape.</p><p>Chris Reilly is a financial modeling expert with over 91,000 students trained globally. He has a diverse background, having worked in private equity and FP&A, and has developed a range...
Acquisition Entrepreneurship for Digital Businesses
<p>In this episode, we're joined by Alexander Kelm, an acquisition entrepreneur and founder of a micro private equity firm focused on buying, growing, and scaling digital businesses across Europe.</p> <p>Alexander shares his unconventional path into acquisitions, including how he sold a business before he had even fully started it. He explains why acquisition entrepreneurship can be such a powerful strategy for digital business owners and how focusing on your strengths, rather than chasing every opportunity, dramatically improves your odds of success.</p> <p>For first-time buyers, Alexander offers practical, no-fluff guidance on getting started. He breaks down...
S7|E4 Your Guide to Finding Opportunity in Discomfort
You’ll explore how opportunities often appear in unexpected forms, challenging your preconceived notions of success. This episode helps you recognize subtle opportunities by embracing discomfort and acting with intention, even amidst uncertainty.<br /><br /><br />In This Episode:<br /><br />00:00 Opportunity’s Quiet Nature<br />01:26 The Unfamiliarity of Opportunity<br />03:43 Growth Demands Response<br />05:48 Readiness: A Decision, Not a Feeling<br />08:43 The Cost of Postponing Opportunity<br /><br /><br />Key Takeaways:<br />Recognize subtle opportunities that don’t fit your expected molds.Distinguish between discomfort and actual danger in new situations you face.Cultivate curiosity, observation, and humility to understan...
Rent Control Fever Catches Boston & Tide Unveils Unappetizing Detergent
<p>Episode 782: Neal and Toby discuss a potential pivotal ballot measure in Massachusetts where a proposed rent control bill has the state’s top Democrats divided on the issue. Then, remote work isn’t just a young person’s game. A new study shows younger companies tend to embrace remote work vs. older companies. Also, Tide just released a new tile-formed laundry detergent…and no, it’s not meant to be eaten. Meanwhile, Norway has absolutely dominated the Winter Olympics so far…and everyone wants to know their secret. </p> <p>Learn more about FlavCity at https://go.shopflavcity.com/mbds </p> <p>...
S7|E7 Achieve Clear Progress: Separate Career & Business SWOT
If you’re a high-achieving professional, you might be making the mistake of using one strategy for both your career and business. This episode explores the importance of separating your career and business strategies, using the SWOT analysis as a tool to gain clarity, improve your focus, and ensure progress without burnout. You’ll learn how distinct approaches to reputation, scalability, and sustainability can lead to sharper strategies and clearer outcomes for you.<br /><br />In This Episode:<br /><br />00:00 Career vs. Business: Separate Strategies<br />02:24 Career as a Platform, Not a Destination<br />04:44 Reputation: Different Outcomes<br />07:25 Clarity Prevents Burn...
Are Conferences Worth Your Time as a Business Owner?
<p>Most online business owners have a complicated relationship with conferences. Some leave feeling energized and full of new ideas. Others leave wondering if they just paid a lot of money for bad coffee and small talk.<br /><br />In this episode of the Opportunity Podcast, Greg breaks down when conferences are actually worth your time and when they're not.</p> <p>He starts by outlining the difference between attending as a practitioner versus a vendor. Practitioners tend to gain the most from learning new strategies, seeing how others operate, and uncovering ideas that can indirectly unlock new revenue. <br /> <...
Electric vehicles create problems for the grid. Could they also help solve them? The plan to turn EVs into reliable grid infrastructure
<p>As we head into 2026, electricity grids aren’t just under strain; they are facing transformational change because of the shifts in the ways that we work, entertain ourselves, and get around. EVs are one of the fastest-growing new loads on the grid in many parts of the world, but are also one of the least well-understood. They can exhibit flexibility that’s mostly going unused today. Millions of EVs are already connected to the grid, and they’re being treated as a problem instead of a solution. So how could they be used to ease that strain on electricity grids...
Be Kind and Win: Gui Costin, Dakota
<p>In this special episode of The Rainmaker Podcast, Gui Costin is interviewed about his book Be Kind. He reflects on early leadership missteps marked by volatility and ego, and the turning point that reshaped his approach to culture and accountability. Gui challenges the belief that high performance requires harshness, arguing instead that kindness and hard standards can coexist. He draws a key distinction between being “nice” and being “kind,” emphasizing direct, respectful feedback over avoidance. The episode reinforces a core leadership principle: words, tone, and daily behavior from the top ultimately define culture and performance.</p><p>Tired of chasing...
Everything You Need Is NOW | Kyle Cease
<p>Kyle Cease had the sold-out shows, the Comedy Central specials, and the external success… but knew something was missing. Instead of doubling down on performance, he walked away from chasing more and began doing deeper work…work that would eventually shift the entire direction of his life.</p><p>Today, Kyle has worked with over 15,000 people around the world, helping them dissolve fear, release old wounds, and reconnect with presence. Through his events, teachings, and transformational work, he guides individuals out of the illusion of control and into alignment with who they truly are.</p><p>After reading his book...
Why $10 Million Is More Dangerous Than $0
<p>Why is $1M–$30M the most dangerous wealth stage? Learn how complexity without structure leads to generational wealth decay—and how a family office framework prevents it.</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with high-net-worth individuals and families who are passionate about real estate and ready to scale their owned income. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbelt Markets (Arizona, Texas, Georgia). For everyone else, we simply create this content with the hope o...
How Excel AI Agents Actually Work for Financial Modelers to Understand LLMs & Tools with Tim Jacks
<p>In this episode of The ModSquad, hosts Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male welcome Tim Jacks, founder of Taglo, for an insightful discussion on the integration of AI in financial modeling. Tim’s expertise bridges the worlds of financial modeling and AI, and in this episode, he shares his journey and discusses how AI is reshaping the financial modeling landscape.</p><p>Tim Jacks is the founder of Taglo, a company dedicated to improving financial modeling with AI technology. His career journey spans financial consulting and software development, including building financial modeling tools. Over time, Tim's interest in ar...
Netflix Walks Away From WBD Deal & Why is Everyone Leaving America?
<p>Episode 789: Neal and Ann dive into why Netflix has walked away from acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery after Paramount makes another counter offer. Then, Jack Dorsey’s Block cuts nearly half of his staff due to AI, and he thinks companies will ultimately do the same. Meanwhile, more and more Americans are packing up their bags and moving away. Also, Waymo expands into more cities. Papa John’s closes hundreds of stores. And Doritos launches protein chips. </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a frien...
Karl Engelmann on Building Sarmaya, Selling with Conviction, and Leading Through Relationships
<p>In this episode of the Rainmaker Podcast, host Gui Costin welcomes Karl Engelmann, co-founder and COO of Sarmaya Partners, to share the story behind the firm’s rapid emergence and his philosophy on sales, leadership, and entrepreneurship. With over three decades of experience in financial services, Karl offers listeners a rare, behind-the-scenes look into launching an asset management firm and the strategic thinking driving its success.</p><p>Karl begins by tracing his unconventional career path, from aspiring journalist to accomplished sales leader. His communication skills and passion for storytelling laid the foundation for a career that spanned roles at...
#60: First Beats Best: How Wedding Pros Actually Get Booked with Jordan Roepke
<p>Why is being first more powerful than being the best in today’s wedding market?</p><p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with Jordan Roepke, award-winning wedding photographer and videographer based in Nashville, Tennessee, to explore why speed, connection, and responsiveness often matter more than perfection.</p><p>Jordan breaks down what actually drives bookings in a crowded industry—explaining why couples rarely compare every option, how being first to respond builds instant trust, and why waiting to be “better” can quietly cost you inquiries. From paid advertising and text messaging to pricing...
When to Pay Off Debt Before Retirement and When to Keep It
<p>“Hey Mike, if I am 10 years away from retirement, but still have some debt, should I pay off my debt first or focus on saving in my IRA?” </p><p>Discover the difference between good debt and bad debt, and how to manage it in retirement. </p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. <br> <br>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
Should You Include Private Equity/Credit in Your Retirement Portfolio?
<p>“Hey Mike, when would private equity play a role in your retirement portfolio?"</p><p>Discover when it may make sense to include private equity or private credit in your retirement portfolio, how it works, and some specific risks to consider.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. </p><p>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
S6|G51 Fearless, Fulfilled, and Free with Dr. Christiane Schroeter
What’s holding you back from building a business you truly love? In this episode of That Will Nevr Work, Maurice Chism sits down with Dr. Christiane Schroeter, confidence coach and founder of DoctorChristiane.com, to explore what it really takes to turn fear into freedom and self-doubt into bold action. Dr. Christiane shares powerful stories and strategies for developing confidence, breaking free from limiting beliefs, and aligning your business with your purpose. This episode is a masterclass in courage, authenticity, and joy.<br /><br />🎧 Connect with Dr. Christiane:<br />Instagram – @doctor.christiane<br />LinkedIn – Christiane Schroeter<br />#ThatWillNevrWork #ConfidenceCoach #Entrepren...
Investors Flee Tech for IRL Stocks & Trump Touts Economy in SOTU Address
<p>Episode 787: Neal and Toby recap the biggest news from President Trump’s State of the Union address. Then, the recent fears of AI, causing widespread selloffs, has been a boon for utility or energy stocks, or HALO trades, “heavy assets, low obsolescence.” Also, the creators of Dark Sky are back with a new weather app that overshadows your native weather app. Meanwhile, “Survivor” returns for its 50th season and a chat about how it’s shaped TV. </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a friend, and...
S7|E2 Lead With Your Value, Not Just Hard Work
🎙️ Episode Summary<br /><br />I discuss how leveraging your personal strengths can significantly propel your career and business forward. In this episode, I redefine strengths not as mere personality traits, but as powerful patterns of value creation, urging professionals to intentionally communicate their unique contributions rather than hoping hard work alone will suffice. Learn to position your strengths effectively to unlock more opportunities and build confidence.<br /><br /><br />In This Episode:<br /><br />00:00 Introduction to Strengths in Business<br />01:27 Evidence of Your Strengths<br />04:00 Positioning Your Strengths<br />06:09 Unrecognized Strengths and Missed Opportunities<br />09:32 Responsibility for Your Strengths<br /><br />...
#57: Wedding Business Lessons from 2025 with Rian Dennis
<p>In this special year-end episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin is joined by a very special guest—his daughter, Rian, who steps into the host seat to interview him about the year that was. Together, they look back on 2025, revisiting standout episodes, memorable guests, and the biggest lessons that shaped the podcast over the past year.</p><p>Through Rian’s thoughtful and playful questions, Kevin reflects on what he learned from conversations around leadership, technology, contracts, boundaries, networking, and celebrating wins in an industry that rarely slows down. They also talk about why continuous learning matters, how podc...
Should You Have An Alter Ego? | The Solo Episode
<p>If you’ve set the same goals over and over and still feel stuck, this is for you. In this episode, we explore why your results start with your identity, not your systems, and how creating an alter ego can help you access a bolder, more capable version of yourself. Because sometimes the person you need to become is already inside you, you just need a doorway to step into them.</p><p>WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/heatherparady</p><p>EPISODES MENTIONED:</p>How to Be Braver Sharing Your Story | Terry Rice: https://www.youtube.co...
S7|E5 Find Hidden Threats to Your Career and Business Growth
You’ll discover how comfort and complacency quietly drain your momentum, hindering your growth until you deliberately challenge these subtle threats.<br /><br />Top 3 Highlights:<br />You’ll see how comfort often acts as a hidden competitor, stopping your personal and professional stretching.You’ll recognize that complacency can disguise itself as stability, leading to your stagnation when unchecked.You’ll learn that momentum is fragile; identifying and addressing subtle threats is crucial to maintaining yours.Episode Navigation:<br /><br />00:00 Identifying Quiet Threats to Growth<br />03:25 Comfort: A Hidden Competitor<br />06:03 Challenging Comfort and Complacency<br />08:41 Momentum’s Fragility and Potential<...
Mark Tower on Consistency, Connection, and Leading with Purpose in Institutional Sales
<p>In this episode of the Rainmaker Podcast, featuring Mark Tower, Senior Institutional Sales and Marketing Professional at Asset Management One USA, delivers a comprehensive masterclass in relationship-driven sales strategy, leadership, and career longevity within the asset management industry. With 25 years of experience, Tower offers a mix of practical advice and personal anecdotes that emphasize the importance of consistency, adaptability, and authenticity in building a successful sales career.</p><p>Tower shares his background growing up as the youngest of eight children in New Jersey, an experience that helped him develop strong interpersonal communication skills. After initially exploring a career...
Tariffs Ineffective Against US Trade Deficit? & Family Feud Over Reese’s Recipe
<p>Episode 784: Neal and Toby discuss the swelling trade deficit despite Trump’s aggressive tariffs. Then, the grandson of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup inventor is publicly criticizing Hershey’s for skimping out for cheaper ingredients. Also, Etsy sells its secondhand marketplace to eBay, which is a move investors are cheering for, making it the Stock of the Week. Meanwhile, Amazon finally snaps its 9-day losing streak that resulted in losing $450B in market value, making it the Dog of the Week. </p> <p>Learn more about FlavCity at https://go.shopflavcity.com/mbds </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Dai...
California’s grid under pressure: affordability, AI, and the future of electricity markets
<p>California is often described as the state where you can see the future of the US, and of the world. That has certainly been true in terms of some of the problems faced by the electricity grid. California has been grappling with the impact of wildfires and a big shift to renewable generation, and now faces the prospect of rising power demand from electrification and data centers.</p><p>In this episode, host Ed Crooks and regular guest Amy Myers Jaffe of NYU talk to Elliot Mainzer, President and CEO of the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), to dig...
S7|E9 Why Do Problems Keep Following Your Career?
Have you ever felt stuck in a cycle, where the same challenges keep resurfacing no matter how many changes you make? Maurice dives into the subtle yet destructive nature of “weakness loops” and shares why your true growth begins not with changing your surroundings, but with changing yourself.<br /><br />Chapter Summary:<br /><br />00:00 Understanding Weakness Loops<br />02:37 Breaking Loops with Accountability<br />05:50 The Importance of Internal Adjustment<br />09:37 Honesty, Structure, and Systems<br /><br />Featured Quotes:<br />“Patterns reveal what the reflection missed.” - Maurice“Weakness loops break when you introduce accountability, structure, and measurable checkpoints.” - Maurice“Breaking the loop doesn...
Data centers are adding an extra 220 gigawatts of electricity demand in the US. How can the grid cope? A second special episode from the ACORE Policy Forum
<p>New analysis from Wood Mackenzie shows that 220 gigawatts of additional power demand from data centers is in the pipeline in the US, and 183 GW of that is already backed by firm commercial commitments. That is a huge amount to add in just a few years: it’s equal to about 22% of US peak demand in 2025. The big question is whether the US electricity industry going to be able to meet that additional demand. And if so, how?</p><p>On the second day of ACORE’s 2026 Policy Forum in Washington, host Ed Crooks talks to industry leaders and experts abou...
We Tested Claude Opus 4.6 and the Results were Super Impressive
<p>In this episode of The ModSquad, Paul Barnhurst, Ian Schnoor, and Giles Male put Claude 4.6 to the test on real financial modeling accreditation cases. From three-statement forecasts to complex debt sculpting scenarios, the team examines just how far AI tools have come. The results are impressive, but not flawless. The discussion explores what this leap forward means for finance professionals and whether modeling is truly entering a new AI-assisted era.</p><p>Ian Schnoor is Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the global accreditation body for financial modeling professionals. He brings extensive experience in modeling, training, and...
#59: Staying Visible in 2026: Digital Trends Every Event Pro Should Know with Krista Chapman
<p>What does it really mean to “stay visible” in 2026? When search, social, and AI are changing by the month?</p><p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with Krista Chapman, Founder and Lead Strategist of Path & Compass, to unpack the digital shifts event pros can’t afford to ignore. Krista explains how couples are searching differently (voice, image, social, and AI search), why trust is harder to earn in an era of decision fatigue, and how being clear about what makes you different helps the right clients find you faster.</p><p>They also d...
The Basics of the Bear Market Protocol
<p>“Hey Mike, can you provide a practical explanation on how to implement the Bear Market Protocol?”</p><p>Discover a few ways you can position your portfolio now in preparation for a potential market crash.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. </p><p>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p><p><br></p>
Weakness as the Key to Greatness | Jon Giganti
<p>What if the thing you have been trying to hide is the exact thing that gives you work power?</p><p>In this episode, I sit down with Jon Giganti, executive coach, speaker, and author of With Intention. Jon gets honest about what held him back, from athletics and family chaos to depression and numbing, and the long road back to presence and purpose.</p><p>Together, we unpack a tension I know many of you feel, the desire to make real impact while being afraid of sounding self promotional, salesy, or spiritually manipulated by words like service and...
Iran War Sparks Market Mayhem & Will Live Nation Be Broken Up?
<p>Episode 791: Neal and Toby give an update on the Iran war and its impact on the stock market, causing traders to move with caution. Then, ticket seller giant Live Nation goes on trial to face accusations of being a monopoly. And, with the purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery, Skydance plans to merge Paramount+ with HBO into one big app to challenge Netflix. Meanwhile, Sweetgreen used to be the darling of Wall Street. Now it’s wilting under sagging sales. </p> <p>Learn more about Bland AI at bland.ai/mbd</p> <p><br></p> <p>Join us for trivia! htt...
Hiring Mistakes That Slow Down Your Business Growth
<p>Many online businesses fail to grow not because of bad products, but because of bad hiring.</p> <p>In this episode of The Opportunity Podcast, Greg speaks with Mads Singers, a management coach who runs multiple recruitment businesses, to talk about where founders go wrong when building teams.</p> <p>One of the most important hiring considerations is cultural fit. Culture is defined by behavior, not by what's written on your website, but by what you allow. If missed deadlines slide or high performers behave poorly without consequences, that becomes the standard. New hires quickly adjust to whatever they...
How to Mix Lifetime Income with Portfolio Growth
<p>“Hey Mike, I was told to put around 60% of my money into a life-time annuity and that would be basically the same as the 4% rule. Is that true?” </p><p>Discover a strategy that targets the income suggested by the 4% rule while leaving funds in the market to help offset future needs and inflation.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. <br> <br>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
The Excel Techniques for Modelers to Build Real World-Business Forecasts - Luke Phillips
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Luke Phillips, Senior Business Analyst at Access Analytic. Luke shares how he transitioned from Division I basketball to financial modeling, and how he helps clients solve complex budgeting and reporting problems using Solver, Excel, and Power BI.</p><p>Luke Phillips is a chartered financial modeler and the Senior Business Analyst at Access Analytic. He works with clients across mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, and professional services to streamline budgeting and reporting through Solver and Excel. Luke holds a BBA in Finance from the University of...
I Was in Foreclosure… Now I Own Millions in Assets (Here’s What Changed)
<p>What does it really take to go from an immigrant reset to building wealth through real estate? In this episode recap, Brian shares how his family left stability in Korea, started over in Hawaii, survived 9/11, rebuilt after four foreclosures, and used mindset, mentorship, and long-term ownership to create generational wealth.</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy ev...
Zuckerberg Answers if Social Media is Addictive & The Rich Are Having More Babies Again
<p>Episode 783: Neal and Toby recap Mark Zuckerberg’s testimony in the landmark trial on social media addiction. Then, a debate arises between state law and federal law on the allowance of prediction markets. Also, India’s AI summit draws some of the biggest names in tech as the country hopes to become a beacon of the newest frontier. Meanwhile, Neal shares his favorite numbers on NYC birth rates, a Louver scandal, and a tax provision that is bringing horse racing back. </p> <p>Learn more about FlavCity at https://go.shopflavcity.com/mbds </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily...
How To Win Visibility in AI Search
<p>AI tools are already answering your customers' questions. The real question is, how do you ensure your business is part of those answers?<br /><br />In this episode, we sit down with Sergey Lucktinov, an AI search visibility expert who has spent more than a decade navigating algorithm shifts and rethinking how businesses get discovered online. <br /> <br />Sergey breaks down how visibility works in the age of AI and what business owners need to do to make sure their brand is actually being mentioned, not silently skipped.</p> <p>We explore how AI has fundamentally changed SEO. The...
S7|E1 Master Your Message: End Confusion, See Growth
Story PreviewEver wonder why a product isn’t selling, despite your best efforts? I share a compelling story about how misunderstanding a market’s unique culture led to confusing advertising, and how the truth about your own message can be the hardest, yet most rewarding, feedback to hear.Chapter Summary:00:00 Evaluate Your Product’s Clarity<br />02:29 Embrace Progress, Not PerfectionFeatured Quotes:<br />“Every system we discuss only works if you’re willing to look in the mirror first.” - Maurice Chisholm“I had had been avoiding whether or not my message was clear or not.” - Maurice ChisholmBehind the Story:I reflect on a p...
Sell Your Business at a Premium by Understanding Buyer Financing
<p>When many entrepreneurs go to sell their business, they're more focused on their business than on the buyer. <br /> <br />Understanding how buyers approach an acquisition, particularly when it comes to funding and deal structure, can help you position your business for the most profitable exit. <br /> <br />In this episode of The Opportunity podcast, Greg breaks down how buyers actually think when evaluating an acquisition and why financing plays such a critical role in deal outcomes. While sellers often fixate on valuation, buyers are just as focused on how they will pay for the business and how much...
What 2025 Taught Us About Excel AI and Where Financial Modeling Is Heading in 2026
<p>In this special episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst recaps an exciting 2025 and outlines what's ahead for 2026. Paul reflects on the top five most downloaded episodes of the year, shares insights from key guests, and highlights major developments in financial modeling, including Excel's newest features and the growing role of AI.</p><p>Expect to Learn</p>Key trends in Excel and financial modeling from 2025How AI is changing the way models are built, tested, and auditedThe importance of simplicity, documentation, and user involvement in model designWhy communication and business understanding are becoming essential skills for mo...
Real World Lessons in Acquisitions and Deal Making
<p>What if the smarter path to building wealth online isn't launching a new business… but acquiring something that already works?</p> <p>In this episode of The Opportunity Podcast, we sit down with Paul Lajoie, a CPA turned acquisition entrepreneur who has bought more than 25 businesses over the past two decades.<br /><br />Paul breaks down his experience starting businesses from scratch vs buying established businesses. The difference is night and day. Paul's success rate in buying businesses is 92%. When starting from scratch? Just 25%.<br /><br /> A large part of Paul's success is his buying criteria. He focuses on bu...
Kalshi Punishes MrBeast’s Editor for Insider Trading & Claude Used to Hack Mexico
<p>Episode 788: Neal and Ann recap Nvidia’s reported earnings that buoy the AI sector by beating expectations. Then, Kalshi reveals a couple cases of insider trading on its prediction markets platform, including one from MrBeast’s production team. And, Anthropic's safety measures are under scrutiny as a hacker uses its code to break into the Mexican government to obtain sensitive information. Meanwhile, Neal shares numbers from the week on the gaming industry, South Korean fertility rates, and a possible ube shortage. Finally, could you handle Dunkin’s 48oz Iced Coffee Bucket? </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of...
#64: How Culture, Family Dynamics, and Communication Styles Shape Buying Decisions with Anshika Arora
<p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with multicultural & Gen-Z wedding expert Anshika Arora with Eternity CRM to unpack how culture, family dynamics, and communication styles are quietly shaping modern buying decisions. From fusion weddings to multi-generational decision-making, Anshika explains why today’s couples aren’t booking the same way they did even three years ago and what wedding professionals must understand to stay relevant.</p><p>They explore how family hierarchy, funding dynamics, and cultural expectations influence vendor selection, and why Gen Z couples prioritize transparency, accessibility, and values-driven communication long before they ever...
Loving Jesus and Being Gay | Brian Nietzel
<p>Brian Nietzel says he's always known two things about himself. One, Jesus is his hero. And two, he is gay. At one point, his faith and sexuality felt divided, because he didn’t just want God’s tolerance—he wanted His blessing. Today, Brian shares his journey of rediscovering the heart of Jesus and knowing in his bones that God’s got him and the LGBTQ+ community. Coming out didn’t take his faith away—it deepened it.</p><p>As the founder of Making Things Right, Brian facilitates powerful events where hundreds of LGBTQ+ individuals and families (many who are cons...
#65: Turning Consultations into Bookings: Practical Tips to Increase Conversions with Steven Burchard
<p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with Steven Burchard of Magical Memories Entertainment to break down one of the biggest challenges wedding professionals face: turning consultations into confirmed bookings.</p><p>From first inquiry to final follow-up, Steven shares practical insight on why consultations should feel like conversations — not sales pitches — and how truly understanding a couple’s vision is the foundation of higher conversion rates. He explains why listening more than speaking is a competitive advantage, how to build trust through education, and where many wedding pros unintentionally lose bookings by overselling or mis...
Financial Modelers Must Master the Fundamentals Before Trusting AI with Chris Reilly
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes back Chris Reilly for a deep and practical conversation on financial modeling fundamentals in the age of AI. Chris shares why mastering the basics still matters more than ever, how AI is changing modeling workflows in reality (not hype), and where automation genuinely adds value versus where human judgment is still essential.</p><p>Chris Reilly is a former private equity professional and financial modeling expert with experience spanning restructuring, FP&A, treasury, and middle market private equity. He began his career at FTI Consulting during the fi...
The Truth About Filing Early and Investing Your Social Security Benefits
<p>“Hey Mike, should I take Social Security early and invest it instead of waiting for a higher benefit?” </p><p>Discover when it may make sense to file for your Social Security benefits and invest your benefits. </p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. <br> <br>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
S7|E3 Accelerate Growth: Build Systems Around Your Weaknesses
I discuss reframing weakness from a flaw into a strategic advantage for business growth. Learn how I identify recurring weaknesses, treat them as data, and implement systems to overcome them, fostering self-management and accelerated progress in my career and business.<br /><br />In This Episode:<br /><br />00:00 Weakness as Information<br />01:06 Identifying Recurring Weaknesses<br />03:25 Weakness as a Signal<br />05:08 Systems Beat Willpower<br />06:40 Managing Weaknesses Strategically<br />08:52 Growth and Self-Trust<br /><br />Key Takeaways:<br />Identify recurring weaknesses in my career or business.Analyze weaknesses as informational data, not personal verdicts.Implement systems and processes to manage weak areas...
How to Handle Retirement Regret
<p>“Hey Mike, I just retired and I completely regret the decision. The problem is the job market is not letting me back in. What should I do moving forward?” </p><p>Discover different ways to address retirement regret.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. <br> <br>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
Why Discipline Matters in Fundraising With Larry Pokora of Tilden Park Capital
<p>In this episode of the Rainmaker Podcast, Gui Costin sits down with Larry Pokora, Managing Director on the Investor Relations team at Tilden Park Capital, to unpack a 30+ year career spanning traditional asset management, alternatives, and institutional fundraising. The conversation moves from Pokora’s blue-collar upbringing in Pittsburgh to his hard-earned perspective on what actually drives long-term success in fundraising.</p><p>Pokora begins by tracing his career back to an unconventional starting point: working as a programmer analyst at Mellon Financial Services after attending the Community College of Allegheny County. That early technical role, he explains, trained him to...
Fictional Story Tanks Stock Market & The iPod Making a Comeback?
<p>Episode 786: Neal and Toby chat about the software stock wipeout after a report from Citrini Research said AI could be detrimental to the economy. Then, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei will meet with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to discuss the use of Claude for the US military. Also, what is Blue Owl? And why is it rattling the private credit industry? Meanwhile, Toby dives into the trend of the iPod making a comeback thanks to Gen Z. </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need to start your day. Share the show with a f...
How are energy supply chains changing as electricity demand surges? A special episode from the ACORE Policy Forum in Washington
<p>ACORE, the power and renewables industry group, is this week hosting its annual Policy Forum in Washinton DC. It’s an event where industry leaders and experts discuss how the changing landscape of US energy policy is shaping infrastructure investment, the growth of electricity supply, and the affordability of power. </p><p>Host Ed Crooks is recording two special episodes from the forum. This first show is focused on the US government’s attempts to build up a domestic supply chain for renewables and other energy equipment. Ed speaks with Dr Sarah Kapnick, who is the global head of Clima...
Building an Online Community | Lucas Bean
<p>Building an online community isn’t about platforms or posting more…it’s about intention. In this episode, I’m joined by entrepreneur and Community Market Fit author Lucas Bean to break down what actually turns an audience into a real community, including the three essentials every strong community needs.</p><p>We unpack what people get wrong about online communities, what modern creators can learn from ancient societies, and why “community market fit” often matters more than product-market fit. We also explore the difference between influencers and creators, building with your audience instead of for them, and how belonging an...
SEO in the Age of AI: What Still Works and What Doesn't
<p>Everyone is rushing to "optimize for AI." Most are doing it wrong.</p> <p>In this episode, Tim Soulo, the Chief Marketing Officer at Ahrefs, cuts through the noise around AEO and GEO and explains why business owners are massively overcomplicating what visibility really means today. <br /><br />While AI-powered search feels new and unpredictable, Tim argues that the same core SEO principles still apply. Create genuinely useful content for your audience, and the algorithms tend to follow.</p> <p>We dive into how traditional SEO compares to AEO and GEO, and where AI actually changes the game. Tim...
The Storytelling Techniques for Financial Modelers to Impress Investors with Karishma Karishma Ramnawaj
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Karishma Ramnawaj, a financial modeler based in Mauritius, to talk about her journey in financial modelling, building and reviewing models, and the lessons she’s learned from both success and failure. Karishma shares her experience of learning on the job, why understanding the end user is critical, and how she balances practical standards with flexibility.</p><p>Karishma is a Certified Advanced Financial Modeler (AFM) and FMVA® professional, currently working as a Financial Modeler Associate at Hawkins Eberdal Ltd in Mauritius. With a strong foundation in bo...
Why Founder-Led Sales Kill Growth and How to Scale
<p>No one works harder than a founder, but at what point does being the main salesperson for your business stop being a strength and start becoming a liability?</p> <p>In this episode, remote sales expert Kai Law breaks down why founder-led sales often become a bottleneck and what to do before it hurts your revenue and eventually your valuation.<br /><br />Drawing on his experience building and leading remote sales teams across multiple industries, Kai explains why you need to improve your own sales skills and processes first before expanding your team.</p> <p>Kai then explains which...
Energy Gang’s year in review: the highs, the lows, the people and the technologies of 2025
<p>It’s the final Energy Gang of the year, and host Ed Crooks is joined by regulars Amy Myers Jaffe, Director of NYU’s Energy, Climate Justice and Sustainability Lab, Shanu Mathew, a portfolio investor and manager, and Melissa Lott, a systems engineer and energy analyst, to take stock of an exciting year for energy.</p><p>The buzzword of 2025 was undoubtedly AI. Data centres transformed the outlook for power demand, and rising electricity prices put pressure on a new US administration that is determined to focus on affordability. As the shockwaves from advances in AI spread out across the indu...
Christian Pastor: Women should not be afraid of PLEASURE | Pastor Kimberly Bulgin
<p>Pastor Kimberly Bulgin is the author of The Sisters Stay Dropping Gems and the founder of The House of Women. She helps faith-filled women unlearn harmful theology so they can reclaim their bodies, desires, and agency…without shame.</p><p>In this episode, we talk about sensuality as a God-given gift and how to rebuild a spiritual life rooted in freedom instead of fear. From modesty culture, to pleasure and holiness, Pastor Kim offers a deeply honest and liberating reframe for women who love God (and as a result) are done hating their bodies.</p><p>WATCH EPISODES ON YO...
How Curiosity and Listening Help Financial Modelers Build Trusted Models with Ian Bennett
<p>In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ian Bennett, Partner and Deals Modelling Leader at PwC Australia, to discuss the art and science of financial modeling. Together, they explore what makes a good financial modeler, how Excel has evolved dramatically in recent years, and how emerging tools and AI are shaping the future of modeling. Ian reflects on his decades-long career, from his early days discovering Excel during audits to leading a large team of modelers across Australia and India.</p><p> </p><p>Ian Bennett is the Deals Modelling Partner at PwC Australia an...
Why The Plan Is Not as Important as the Strategy
<p>“Hey Mike, why do you minimize the importance of a financial plan?"</p><p>Discover the purpose of a retirement plan, and why you may want to spend more time on the strategies you can implement in retirement.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. </p><p>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
Optimizing Your Amazon Listings for Rufus and AI Search
<p>For Amazon sellers, discovery determines everything. If customers can't find your products, nothing else matters.</p> <p>What many sellers haven't realized is how quickly Amazon's discovery engine is changing.</p> <p>Amazon is moving beyond traditional keyword-driven search toward AI-powered, intent-based answers through Rufus. This impacts how products are surfaced, compared, and ultimately purchased.</p> <p>In this episode of The Opportunity Podcast, we're joined by Jon Tilley, CEO and co-founder of ZonGuru, to unpack what this change means for sellers.</p> <p>For years, growth on Amazon centered around search volume, keyword placement, and ranking tactics. But...
Building Trust at Scale: Brian Willer on Leading High-Performing Institutional Sales Teams
<p>In this episode of the Rainmaker Podcast, Gui Costin sits down with Brian Willer, Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager of Institutional Business Development at Federated Hermes, to discuss leadership, communication, and the operational discipline required to scale an institutional sales organization.</p><p>Willer begins by reflecting on his early background growing up in Maine with no direct exposure to investment management. His interest in financial markets was sparked by curiosity rather than formal guidance, eventually leading him to Bryant University, where a trading simulation room cemented his desire to enter the industry. He launched his career...
#63: Book More Weddings Without The Overwhelm with Heidi Thompson
<p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with marketing strategist Heidi Thompson to talk about what’s really happening in the wedding industry right now and how to book more weddings without feeling completely overwhelmed.</p><p>Heidi shares insights on generational shifts, the rise of Gen Z couples, and why today’s buyers expect clarity, transparency, and trust long before they ever reach out. She breaks down the difference between visibility, messaging, and positioning — and why standing out is more important than simply being seen.</p><p>Together, they explore why referrals are still...
Venezuela and what to expect from energy in 2026
<p>The new year has only just begun, and already we have seen an event with massive significance for the world of energy. The US operation to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro opens a new era for a country that holds – according to some definitions – the world’s largest oil reserves.</p><p>So far there has been little impact on oil markets. But what are the implications going to be for energy in the months and years to come? To discuss how this volatile situation might evolve, host Ed Crooks is joined by regular guest Amy Myers Jaffe, Directo...
I Went From $7 an Hour to Millionaire… Here’s How
<p>How does someone go from $7 an hour with $100 in the bank to building real wealth? This story breaks down the mindset shifts, first investments, and leverage decisions that turned income into long-term financial freedom. 😎😎</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbe...
How to Grow Your Wealth If You Have $0
<p>How do you build wealth from $0 with no network or rich parents? Jamie shares how she went from an immigrant childhood to selling million-dollar homes at 20, building long-term wealth through real estate, discipline, and ownership—without credentials, connections, or capital. ✨</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes...
#56: Creative Balance for Wedding Pros: Celebrate More, Compare Less with Tabitha Roberts
<p>What would your work look like if you stopped measuring it against everyone else’s?</p><p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin sits down with seasoned wedding planner Tabitha Roberts of Roberts & Co. Events for an honest conversation about comparison, burnout, and protecting your creativity in an industry that never stops moving. After 16 years in the DC market, Tabitha has seen how quickly social media can turn inspiration into insecurity—and how essential it is to find balance before burnout sets in.</p><p>Together, they explore how comparison shows up at every stage of a cr...
S7|E8 Your Strengths Aren’t Working? You’re Missing THIS Alignment
You’ll discover how “strength stacking” — aligning your skills intentionally — multiplies your impact and differentiates you without added effort.<br /><br />Top 3 Highlights:<br />Your growth accelerates through alignment of strengths, not just adding more skills.Combining your strengths like communication and leadership makes you harder to replace.Strength stacking reduces your effort, boosts your confidence, and prevents your professional burnout.Episode Navigation:<br /><br />00:00 Growth Through Strength Stacking<br />03:10 Differentiating with Stacked Strengths<br />06:17 Aligning Strengths for Momentum<br />09:23 Applying Strength Alignment<br /><br /><br />Take Action:Identify two strengths you use separately and brainstorm how they could reinforce each other...
Professional Storyteller: How to tell Authentic Stories | Ron Chapman
<p>Ron Chapman is a professional storyteller, novelist, and longtime guide for deep inner work. With nearly 40 years of sobriety, Ron has spent his life helping people navigate hard truths…through story, spirituality, and presence rather than performance.</p><p>In this conversation, we talk about what it actually means to tell authentic stories—not polished or performative, but honest stories that respect the audience and the weight of the material. From wrestling with God, to trauma and recovery, to knowing when not to perform, this episode is a grounded look at storytelling as a responsibility…not just a craft.</p><p>W...
We Met 3 Billionaires… Here are 3 Things We Learned
<h3>What do three billionaires know that most investors don’t? This behind-the-scenes conversation reveals the mindset shifts, asset strategies, and leverage plays driving real wealth in this decade. 💋</h3><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbelt Markets (Arizona, Texas, Georgia). F...
Anthropic Blacklisted By US Government? & US-Iran War Disrupts Gulf Travel
<p>Episode 790: Neal and Toby talk about the US-Iran conflict that’s erupted and the shake up across the global economy. Then, OpenAI reaches an AI agreement with the Defense Department after Anthropic refuses to give it access. Plus, Pokemon celebrates its 30th anniversary and continues to be one of the most valuable brands in the world. Meanwhile, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is the latest case of ‘brain drain’ in the move to Australia. Finally, what you need to know in the week ahead. </p> <p>Learn more about Bland AI at bland.ai/mbd</p> <p>Subscri...
The National Squash League: Reinventing Pro Squash
<p>In this special edition of the Rainmaker Podcast, host Gui Costin sits down with Spencer Lovejoy, Co-Founder and CEO of the National Squash League (NSL), and BG Lemmon, co-owner of the Philadelphia Lightning, to unpack what it takes to build a modern sports league from the ground up, and why squash is uniquely positioned for a team-based reinvention.</p><p>The conversation opens with Spencer’s journey from junior squash in New Haven to competing professionally on the global circuit, and ultimately to co-founding the NSL alongside his partners. After years of playing an individual sport that often felt is...
SCOTUS Shuts Down Trump’s Tariffs & TSA PreCheck Pause Causes Confusion
<p>Episode 785: Neal and Toby discuss the Supreme Court’s ruling to deem Trump’s tariffs as illegal and the potential fallout for the federal government and US companies. Then, the DHS suspended TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, then quickly reversed course, causing a travel whiplash in an already chaotic weekend. Also, the Winter Olympics is wrapping up and its viewership has been on a tear. Meanwhile, do you back into a parking spot or back out? Finally, what you need to know in the week ahead. </p> <p>Subscribe to Morning Brew Daily for more of the news you need...
Why 70% of Rich Families Go Broke By Generation 3 (Will Yours Survive?)
<p>Why do wealthy families lose their fortunes by the third generation? 🤯 Learn the first-principle reason fortunes fail, and how systems, ownership, and governance make wealth last.</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbelt Markets (Arizona, Texas, Georgia). For everyone...
The Skeptic Pastor | Jeremy Steele
<p>Jeremy Steele helps people healing from religious trauma find spiritual beliefs and practices that actually work for them. A deep skeptic and ordained pastor, he leads an online community offering spiritual care to people who may never walk back into a church building, yet still crave meaning, purpose, and transcendence.</p><p>In this episode, Jeremy unpacks what it means to be a “practitioner of Christianity,” how to deconstruct without burning your soul to the ground, and why the very parts of you that were once labeled “wrong” might be your clearest doorway to impact.</p><p>WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTU...
This Is What AI Changes Forever (And No One’s Talking About It)
<p>What does AI actually change in real estate—and why does timing matter? This episode explains how AI-driven infrastructure creates new housing demand, why the next 36 months are critical, and how early positioning—not headlines—creates long-term returns. 🤍</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more...
Are VPPs really a viable solution for easing strain on the grid? Tesla say yes, and they have big plans
<p>VPPs – virtual power plants – continue to spark heated debate. Are they genuinely a fast, affordable way to add capacity to the grid? Or are they an overhyped concept that falls apart when electricity systems are under stress? To find out, host Ed Crooks welcomes Colby Hastings, the senior director for residential energy at Tesla, to unpack what VPPs can and can’t do for the grid.</p><p>Colby explains how storage-based VPPs can behave very differently from the classic demand response that relies on consumers changing their behaviour. She sets out Tesla’s thinking on VPPs, including its strategi...
A Quick Guide to Your Last 10 Working Years
<p>“Hey Mike, what would you do in your final 10 working years?"</p><p>Discover some of the main questions you may want to ask so you can prepare now for a more efficient and optimized retirement plan and portfolio.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. </p><p>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
What to Consider Before Starting a Business in Retirement
<p>“Hey Mike, I want to start a business in retirement to keep myself busy. What should I know?” </p><p>Discover why a business may or may not be a good idea in retirement.</p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. <br> <br>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
#58: Visibility as a Business Strategy (Not Just Marketing) with Renée Dalo
<p>What if visibility wasn’t about being louder, but about being clearer?</p><p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with Renée Dalo for a candid conversation about visibility as a strategic and sustainable tool for growth in the wedding industry. They explore how showing up with intention builds trust, attracts aligned clients, and shortens the sales cycle long before an inquiry ever hits your inbox.</p><p>Renée shares her perspective on creating content rooted in authenticity, navigating nuanced or uncomfortable topics with confidence, and using creativity and collaboration to stan...
Energy storage steps up: the growing role of batteries on the grid, and the challenge from winter storms
<p>It’s the hottest sector in the global energy industry right now, driven by rising power demand, the need to back up variable renewable generation, and escalating threats to grid resilience. It is of course, battery storage. Host Ed Crooks and regular guest Amy Myers Jaffe speak with Julian Nebreda, CEO of energy storage systems company Fluence, about why batteries are becoming essential grid infrastructure.</p><p><br></p><p>At peak hours during the bitterly cold weather that has covered much of North America in recent weeks, batteries accounted for about 1% of US power supply. But even a re...
#61: Insight Out: Uncovering the Hidden Truths of Consumer Behavior with Loni Peterson
<p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, Kevin Dennis sits down with Loni Peterson of LP Creative Events to unpack why understanding consumer behavior is essential for wedding professionals navigating a rapidly changing market.</p><p>Drawing from both her real-world experience and her role as a professor at CU Boulder, Loni shares how emotional connection, authenticity, and values-driven branding influence how couples choose their vendors. She explains the industry’s shift from influencer marketing to impact marketing, where couples—especially younger generations—prioritize meaningful experiences and alignment over aesthetics alone.</p><p>They also discuss short planning runway...
What Mr. Beast Understands About Finance That Most Don’t
<p>MrBeast's $2.6B net worth isn't from YouTube—it's from owning the system his income flows through. Learn what he understands about wealth infrastructure that most don't. 🤓</p><p>…</p><p>We partner with entrepreneurs & founders who have a passion for real estate and have $100K to $5M to invest, all aiming to turn their profits into a lasting legacy. To find out more, apply here.</p><p>👇 https://www.a1000xbetterinvestments.com </p><p>We buy everything from multifamily apartments to building ground-up developments like townhomes (worth $65 million or more each) in the Sunbelt Markets (Arizona, Texas, Georgia). For everyone el...
There’s More to Tax Planning Than Just IRA to Roth Conversions
<p>"Hey Mike, how do you solve for tax efficient retirement income?” </p><p>Discover various tax strategies you may want to consider in retirement. </p><p>Text your questions to 913-363-1234. <br> <br>Request Your Wealth Analysis by going to www.retireontime.com </p>
From Operator to Investor: How Nate DaPore Built Roo Capital Around Talent and Execution
<p>In this episode of the Rainmaker Podcast, Gui Costin sits down with Nate DaPore, Founder of Roo Capital, to explore how an operator’s mindset, disciplined sales execution, and hands-on value creation have shaped a differentiated venture capital platform.</p><p>DaPore’s story begins with early exposure to sales and entrepreneurship out of necessity. Paying his own way through college, he convinced a car dealership to give him a trial selling cars over the summer, quickly outperforming expectations and earning enough to fund his education. That formative experience reinforced two core themes that would define his career: accountability and...
#62: Business Trip! Venue Relationships That Get You Referred with Shannon Tarrant
<p>In this episode of Mind Your Wedding Business, we’re launching a brand-new podcast takeover segment called Business Trip! — where industry experts step into the host seat to interview Kevin Dennis and take a deeper dive into real-world wedding business insights.</p><p>For the first Business Trip, Shannon Tarrant, co-founder of Wedding Venue Map, takes over as guest host to tackle one of the biggest “hot topics” in the wedding industry: getting on venue preferred vendor lists and staying on them.</p><p>Shannon and Kevin break down why vendors chase these lists so hard, what preferred lists actually...
Evolving Into Who You’re Meant to Become | Bishop Kevin Foreman
<p>To reach the “next level” in our lives, we often have to break generational patterns, become beginners again, and learn how to make decisions from a place of certainty (not permission).</p><p>This week, we’re joined by Bishop Kevin Foreman, known as “The People’s Bishop”. A pastor, entrepreneur, and mentor, he lives at the intersection of faith, leadership, and personal transformation.</p><p>In this conversation, he shares brutally honest, practical, and spiritual insights on what it really takes to evolve into who you were meant to become.</p><p>WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com...
True Crime to Healing: Collier Landry on Storytelling and Trauma
<p>At just 12 years old, Collier Landry testified against his father in one of Ohio’s most publicized trials following the murder of his mother. His film A Murder in Mansfield became part of his healing and opened conversations about the lasting impact of violence on families, communities, and survivors.</p><p>In this conversation, we explore authenticity in storytelling, the tension between public curiosity and personal truth, and how creative expression can transform pain into meaning. Collier reflects on how creativity became a lifeline… serving as tools for processing grief, reclaiming identity, and confronting generational trauma.</p><p>WATCH EPIS...
S7|E6 End Emotional Decisions: Build Strategic Discipline
You often get lost in the emotional whirlwind of your entrepreneurial journey, making strategic reviews a daunting task. Maurice shares his personal struggles with infrequent and emotionally charged reviews, revealing how this common pitfall can turn your minor issues into major setbacks, hindering your growth and intention.<br /><br />Chapter Summary:<br /><br />00:00 Strategy: Review, Don’t Retreat<br />03:13 Consistency: Theory to Traction<br />06:27 Small Adjustments, Big Results<br />09:32 Weekly SWOT: Your Growth Catalyst<br /><br />Featured Quotes:<br />“Progress doesn’t come from thinking harder once a year, It comes from checking alignment consistently.” - Maurice“Strategy fails when it’s infre...
A solution to the problem of paying for data centre power? Unpacking AWS’s recent 3 gigawatt deal with NIPSCO
<p>Data centres have become one of the most contentious issue in US power markets. The question of who will pay for the new generation and grid upgrades needed to keep them running has been soaring up the political agenda, and attracting attention in the White House.</p><p>Host Ed Crooks is joined on this episode by Brandon Oyer, Head of Americas Power & Water at Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Vince Parisi, President & COO at NIPSCO, the Northern Indiana Public Service Company, to discuss a solution.</p><p>Together, they unpack their new agreement to develop power capacity in...
Michael Sidgmore on Winning the Wealth Channel
<p>In this episode of The Rainmaker Podcast, Gui Costin sits down with Michael Sidgmore, Partner and Co-Founder of Broadhaven Ventures and Founder of Alt Goes Mainstream, to unpack one of the most important structural shifts in asset management today: the convergence of private markets and private wealth.</p><p>Michael begins by walking through his path from growing up outside Washington, D.C., to studying at the London School of Economics, where he first gained exposure to private markets by leading one of the world’s largest student-run hedge fund and private equity conferences. That early immersion led to ro...
