Freedom Nation Podcast

In this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel interviews Jordan Berry, founder of Laundromat Resource. Jordan shares his journey from being a pastor to becoming a laundromat owner and eventually creating a platform to help others achieve financial freedom through laundromats. He talks about the challenges he faced with his first "zombie mat" and how he turned those hard-learned lessons into a successful business model. This episode dives into the often-overlooked world of laundromats as a viable, low-risk investment opportunity for anyone looking to build a side hustle or a full-time income streamKey Takeaways:• Turning a Side Hustle into a Freedom Engine: Jordan explains how he transitioned from his initial career as a pastor to becoming a laundromat owner after his wife suggested the idea. Initially, he struggled with a rundown laundromat, which he called a "zombie mat," but he eventually learned how to turn it into a profitable venture.• The Reality of Owning a Laundromat: Jordan shares the hard truths and pitfalls he faced, including working with a self-interested broker, underestimating costs, and lacking initial business knowledge. His experience highlights the importance of due diligence and finding trustworthy mentors or resources before diving in.• Learning from Mistakes: Jordan’s early mistakes taught him valuable lessons that he now shares with others through Laundromat Resource. From demographic studies to marketing strategies, he emphasizes the importance of having a clear strategy to transform struggling laundromats into profitable businesses.• The Laundromat Playbook: Jordan discusses his Laundromat Playbook, a comprehensive program that provides aspiring laundromat owners with frameworks, one-on-one coaching, KPIs, and a mastermind group to ensure their success. This playbook aims to help others avoid the costly mistakes he made and make laundromats a solid income stream.• Geofencing and Targeted Marketing: As a forward-thinking business owner, Jordan utilizes innovative marketing tactics like geofencing to reach new customers. He explains how these methods, combined with loyalty programs and targeted promotions, can elevate a laundromat’s profitability.About the Guest:Jordan was a pastor for 15 years and transitioned out of full-time ministry into buying a laundromat. His experience buying his first laundromat was not a good one. Instead of replacing his salary, as he expected, his laundromat lost $2,000 dollars per month for well over a year. Desperate to find help to turn his business around, he frantically searched for someone to guide him to profitability. He found no rescue. After finally stopping the bleeding, he decided to share the hard-earned (and expensive) lessons he learned on a blog. And then on a YouTube channel. And then, on a quest to find out how the best laundromat owners operated their businesses, he started a podcast interviewing laundromat owners and other industry professionals. These platforms turned into Laundromat Resource, an education and community platform for laundromat owners and future laundromat owners to learn, share best practices, and connect with one another.Links:https://www.laundromatresource.com/Fast Five Questions1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I'd network with people and find ways to serve. My first step would be finding a problem I can solve for someone, and then turning that into a business."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "Relying too heavily on a broker without doing my own due diligence...

In this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel interviews Mike Handcock, an international award-winning speaker, author, and founder of the Circle of Excellence group. Mike shares his journey from corporate life in New Zealand to creating a thriving coaching business that empowers entrepreneurs worldwide. His experiences—from building a business in construction to traveling the globe as a speaker—are filled with valuable insights on how to live freely and design a life that aligns with your dreams.Key Takeaways:• Transforming Adversity into Opportunity: Mike shares his incredible backstory, growing up as an orphan and facing adversity from a young age. Through resilience and an entrepreneurial spirit, he built a successful career in corporate before taking a leap to pursue his passions.• The Importance of Design and Intention: Mike explains how he deliberately crafted a life that allowed him to travel, work, and enjoy his freedom. He discusses how years of planning and discipline helped him achieve the flexibility to live and work in 20+ countries each year.• Building Circle of Excellence: From free resources and webinars to intensive personal coaching, Mike’s Circle of Excellence group offers five levels of involvement for entrepreneurs at every stage. His unique business model is designed to provide practical solutions for challenges like branding, sales, and customer service.• Lessons Learned from Corporate to Coaching: After years in the corporate world, Mike shares his insights on the importance of following your gut, building a strong network, and recognizing opportunities. His transition story offers a blueprint for others looking to break free from the corporate grind.• The Power of Writing and Personal Branding: A prolific author, Mike offers practical advice on writing books to establish authority and build a brand. He shares his journey in publishing, including insights from owning a publishing company and advice from legendary authors like Mark Victor Hansen.About the Guest:With clients in over 50 countries, and travelling to around 15 each year, Mike Handcock chairs 5 companies, is on the board of 3 NFP's and will be the 2025/26 President of the Global Speakers Federation. From Orphan to Conscious Leader Mike influences leaders across industries to play a bigger game. Supported by 7 international best sellers in personal and professional development, a background which includes being a touring musician and the GM Sales responsible for getting $250M a year, Mike is a plethora of incites into business, life, ancient wisdom and enjoys throwing all sorts of ideas around to create magic.Links:https://www.circleofexcellence.biz/Fast Five Questions1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “I’d pick up my Les Paul guitar, plug it into my Marshall amp, and play as loud as I want. Sometimes, you just need to do what brings you joy.”2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "Not trusting my gut. Following corporate protocols instead of intuition led me to miss out on opportunities and trust the wrong people."3. What is a book that you would recommend? “One Minute Millionaire by Mark Victor Hansen and Blue Ocean Strategy—both provide valuable insights on innovative business thinking and success.”4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? "WhatsApp”5. What is your definition of freedom? "Freedom is doing what you want, when you want, wherever you...

In this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel interviews Rob Tracz, a coach who helps high achievers break free from "robot mode"—the state of being hyper-efficient but disconnected from life. Rob shares his journey from working non-stop in the fitness industry, even through personal hardships, to finding a new path that allowed him to balance his personal and professional life. Now, Rob helps others avoid burnout and find clarity, purpose, and true freedom in their lives.Key Takeaways:• Overcoming Burnout and Rediscovering Purpose: Rob shares how he grew up moving from place to place, which led him to become an introvert. Fitness became his outlet and eventually led him to a career in strength and conditioning. However, working 12-15 hour days, seven days a week, left him feeling trapped in what he calls "robot mode." When his father was diagnosed with cancer, Rob continued working, missing valuable time with family—a wake-up call that led him to reassess his priorities.• Breaking Free from Robot Mode: Rob explains "robot mode" as a hyper-efficient, productive state that leaves people emotionally disconnected and burnt out. He describes how he transitioned from a state of perpetual busyness to a balanced lifestyle by reevaluating his goals, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal development.• The Six Principles of Prime Performance Coaching: Rob introduces his six principles: physical and mental challenges, intentional consumption (nutrition and media), clarity and focus, optimization and efficiency, social support, and opportunity creation. These principles form the foundation of his coaching approach, helping clients achieve their goals while maintaining balance.• Finding True Freedom in Personal Development: Rob's coaching goes beyond business success—he focuses on holistic personal growth. His approach helps clients build resilience, develop focus, and set clear boundaries to prevent burnout. Rob’s method ensures clients can sustain high performance without sacrificing personal well-being.• New Challenges and Community Building: Rob is launching a new connection challenge aimed at strengthening personal and professional relationships. This challenge encourages participants to reconnect with friends, family, and colleagues, emphasizing the importance of community and support systems.About the Guest:Rob Tracz, a pioneer in guiding entrepreneurs from stagnation to "Prime Performance," employs a strategic fusion of coaching and personal development principles for professional success, aiming to unleash the complete potential of ambitious professionals. As CEO of TAPS - Coaching and the visionary creator of "Prime Performance: Path to the Ideal Entrepreneurial Lifestyle," Rob's innovative methodology systematically addresses uncertainties and inertia. He navigates clients through a structured, engaging journey towards resilience, clarity, efficiency, support, and opportunity.Through keynotes and podcasts, Rob champions strategic lifestyle elevation, advocating vitality, mindful consumption, restful reflection, and network building. With a Master’s in Science and elite certifications, he redefines fulfillment, driving clients to surpass mediocrity and achieve unparalleled success in both personal and professional realms.Links:https://robtracz.com/Fast Five Questions:1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I’d immediately connect with new people, find out what they’re working on, and figure...

In this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel speaks with Petar Krastev, a fitness coach and entrepreneur with an inspiring story of overcoming adversity. Petar shares his journey from growing up in tough circumstances in Bulgaria to becoming a successful online fitness coach. His journey, filled with hardship, resilience, and eventual triumph, shows how dedication, hard work, and a refusal to give up can transform anyone's life.Key Takeaways:• Overcoming Early Struggles: Petar grew up in a difficult environment, facing bullying and poverty. He shares how a toxic relationship, coupled with financial struggles, pushed him to leave his home country of Bulgaria for the UK in search of a better life. With only €10 in his pocket and a bag of old clothes, Petar's first few months in the UK were marked by hardship, living in conditions as tough as a car wash and later a garage without electricity or water.• Turning Point and Resilience: Petar's journey took a major turn when he found the strength to leave a toxic relationship and focus on building a better future for himself. His relentless work ethic, first as a manager at Subway and later in real estate and Amazon, fueled his determination to change his life.• Discovering Fitness and Online Coaching: Ryan explains how he began investing in real estate while on the road, including wholesaling properties and working with a partner back home. This allowed him to continue earning money while traveling, eventually building a portfolio of rental properties that provided him with passive income.• Building a Thriving Fitness Business: Petar shares how he built a thriving online fitness coaching business by focusing on community and connection. His experience hosting a Clubhouse community during the COVID-19 pandemic helped him gain visibility and build credibility. He emphasizes the importance of passion and integrity in building a long-lasting business, even as he scales his operations.About the Guest:Petar Krastev is a 33-year-old fitness coach and Newborn Christian whose life story is a powerful testament to resilience and transformation. At just 22 years old, Petar fled his home country and arrived in the UK with only 10 euros and a bag of old clothes. His journey was anything but easy; he lived on the streets, endured grueling, slavery-like jobs, and spent 18 months in a lock-up garage without electricity or water, followed by two years living in a laundry basement. Despite these unimaginable hardships, Petar never let go of his dream of building a successful business, even in the face of countless failures.During these trying times, Petar made a pivotal decision to dedicate his life to sports. Although he wasn’t an athlete at the time, he was determined to "walk the walk" before he could guide others on the same path. This decision was the catalyst for his transformation into a fitness coach and ultimately led to the founding of Coach PK.Petar also founded one of the most respected communities for health and fitness professionals, Limitless Body And Mind. Though he had to step away from it for a while, he recently revived the community for his clients, and it now proudly stands as a cornerstone of Coach PK.Today, Petar specializes in addressing complex health and lifestyle challenges, often working with business leaders and entrepreneurs who have sacrificed their self-care in pursuit of career success and family obligations. He is committed to helping them grow into the people they aspire to be by instilling the right habits and mindset necessary for lasting transformation.Petar Krastev’s journey is one of perseverance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their best selves, making him a beacon of inspiration in the fitness and wellness...

In this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel interviews Ryan Mellon, the Digital Nomad Coach. Ryan shares his incredible story of leaving behind two grueling full-time jobs to pursue a life of travel, freedom, and real estate investing. He talks about his transition from working 14-hour days at Chick-fil-A and UPS to becoming a real estate investor and digital nomad, traveling the world while maintaining financial independence. If you're ready to break free from the corporate grind, Ryan's story will inspire you to take the leap.Key Takeaways:• Breaking Free from the Grind: Ryan shares his story of working two jobs for a decade, spending 14 hours a day, six days a week, and how a two-week solo trip to Costa Rica opened his eyes to the possibility of a different life. He explains how that trip became the catalyst for his decision to leave the 9-to-5 world behind and pursue financial freedom.• Becoming a Digital Nomad: After quitting both jobs and saving money, Ryan traveled across 23 U.S. states in an RV for a year. He discusses how he leveraged his real estate license and worked remotely from different locations, leading him to embrace the digital nomad lifestyle.• Real Estate Investing on the Road: Ryan explains how he began investing in real estate while on the road, including wholesaling properties and working with a partner back home. This allowed him to continue earning money while traveling, eventually building a portfolio of rental properties that provided him with passive income.• Coaching Aspiring Digital Nomads: Ryan shares how he began coaching others to achieve their own version of freedom, helping people transition from traditional jobs to remote work, freelancing, or entrepreneurship. He offers insights into how anyone can build a location-independent lifestyle.• Life as a Hybrid Nomad: Ryan discusses his current lifestyle, where he spends six months traveling abroad and six months back home in Virginia. He talks about the benefits of the hybrid nomad lifestyle, where you can balance travel with maintaining roots and managing a business back home.About the Guest:Ryan's journey from burnout to a life of adventure is nothing short of inspiring. Just a few years ago, Ryan was grinding through two jobs, working 14 hours a day, 6 days a week. He was burned out, with no time or money to travel, and felt trapped in a routine that offered no freedom. But everything changed when he managed to take two weeks off, flew to Costa Rica, and embarked on a solo backpacking trip that would alter the course of his life.During that transformative journey, Ryan met people from all over the world, many of whom had been traveling for years. This experience ignited a passion within him to see the world on his own terms. Upon returning, Ryan saved up enough money to travel for an entire year. He quit both jobs and even convinced two friends to join him on an epic road trip across the United States, covering 23 states in one year.That year on the road wasn't just a journey of discovery; it was where Ryan found a way to make money while traveling. While his friends returned to the 9-to-5 grind, Ryan chose a different path, continuing to work remotely and travel the world. In just a few months, he visited 8 countries in 6 months, funding his travels through remote work and travel hacking, allowing him to fly for free.Fast forward a few years, and Ryan has worked from 21 countries and still spends six months of every year traveling. His story is a testament to the power of taking risks, pursuing passions, and crafting a life of freedom and adventure.Links:

In this powerful episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel sits down with Drewbie Wilson, a former street hustler turned million-dollar sales trainer. Drewbie shares his inspiring story of transformation, from growing up selling drugs to becoming a successful entrepreneur and sales coach. He talks about how personal development, learning marketing, and embracing the value of time helped him build multiple businesses, including his "Call the Damn Leads" consulting firm. Drewbie's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, mindset shifts, and making the most of every opportunity.Key Takeaways:• Overcoming a Rough Start: Drewbie opens up about his difficult upbringing, raised by a single mother and surrounded by drugs and addiction. He explains how he became a product of his environment, making bad decisions to survive. However, meeting his future wife and becoming a father made him reevaluate his life, leading him to seek a better path.• The Turning Point: A pivotal moment came when Drewbie entered sales, where he quickly learned that sales is both the easiest six-figure job and the hardest $50,000-a-year job. The mindset shift from scarcity to abundance became the key to his success, and personal development helped him unlock his full potential.• The Value of Time: Drewbie emphasizes that time is the most valuable asset anyone has. After realizing that he was undervaluing his time, he started charging more for his services. One of his first clients even paid him more than he asked for, which opened his eyes to the importance of valuing his expertise.• Building a Business Around Marketing: Drewbie learned the ropes of marketing through trial and error, eventually mastering Facebook ads and helping insurance agents increase their lead generation. His success in marketing led to building his "Call the Damn Leads" brand, where he helps businesses optimize their sales processes.About the Guest:Drewbie Wilson is living proof that impossible is just a word. He's the guy who turned life’s challenges into a launchpad for success, and now, he's on a mission to ignite that same fire in others.As a sales juggernaut, Drewbie has generated over $13 million in sales through pure determination and grit—no gimmicks involved. He’s been in the trenches, where every call feels like a battle and every close a victory. For audiences eager to learn how to sell big (we’re talking $5,000 tickets), Drewbie delivers insights drawn from real-world experience.A weight loss warrior, Drewbie shed over 100 pounds, proving that true transformation begins in the mind. He brings hard-earned wisdom to audiences struggling with weight loss, showing that mindset is the key to lasting change.In addition to being a brand builder and best-selling author, Drewbie is not just focused on building businesses—he’s building legacies. His journey from personal challenges to professional triumphs offers invaluable lessons for those seeking to make an impact.On a personal level, Drewbie has saved his marriage by redefining the value of time and setting boundaries. His raw and relatable story speaks to anyone looking to strengthen their relationships and achieve a healthier work-life balance.Links:https://callthedamnleads.com/Fast Five Questions1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I would go on social media and ask people what their biggest problem is. Then I’d look for the most common issue and figure out how to solve it. The bigger the problem, the more people are willing to pay to have it solved."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have...

Building a Self-Publishing Empire: How Scott Allan Turned His Passion into a Thriving BusinessIn this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel interviews Scott Allan, a prolific author, publisher, and one of the pioneers of the Amazon self-publishing world. Scott shares his journey from moving to Japan on a whim to becoming a successful self-publisher who has built a thriving business around his passion for writing. Listen in as Scott discusses the evolution of the self-publishing industry, the importance of adaptability, and how he has leveraged new tools and strategies to stay ahead in the game.Key Takeaways:• From Engineer to Author: Scott shares how he left his career as an electrical engineer and moved to Japan, where he transitioned into teaching and eventually found his true passion in writing and self-publishing. His journey is a testament to the power of following your passion and taking bold steps toward a fulfilling career.• The Early Days of Amazon Publishing: Scott reflects on the early days of Amazon publishing, describing it as the "wild wild west" where a small community of authors supported each other. He shares how the industry has evolved over the years and the importance of adapting to these changes to succeed.• Leveraging AI and New Tools: Scott discusses how he has embraced AI and other digital tools to streamline his writing and publishing processes. He highlights the importance of staying current with technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge in the publishing world.• Expanding Beyond Amazon: Scott talks about his decision to go wide with his books, publishing on multiple platforms beyond Amazon to reach a global audience. He also shares how he has partnered with international publishers, expanding his reach and income streams through translation deals.• Building a Brand and Engaging with Readers: Scott emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand and engaging directly with readers through newsletters, courses, and workshops. He shares his strategies for growing an email list and creating additional value for his audience through diversified content offerings.About the Guest:Scott emphasizes the importance of building a personal brand and engaging directly with readers through newsletters, courses, and workshops. He shares his strategies for growing an email list and creating additional value for his audience through diversified content offerings.Links:https://www.scottallanpublishing.com/Fast Five Questions:1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I'd lean into my skill sets. I'd build out a landing page, probably for my coaching services, and start reaching out to my contacts. Social media is a free platform where you can start promoting your services and get clients quickly."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "Not taking my business seriously enough and becoming too distracted. I created too many projects at once, leading to time and money wasted without getting anything done."3. What is a book that you would recommend? " Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell and Who Not How by Benjamin Hardy ”4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? "ChatGPT, along with other AI tools like Create.Dibli and DeepL for writing, editing, and translation. These tools help me maintain productivity and quality at a faster pace.”5. What is your definition of freedom? "Freedom is...

In this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, Jeff Kikel interviews Matthew Tack, co-founder of Full-Fueled and a successful entrepreneur who transitioned from a corporate career to thriving in real estate and the health and wellness industry. Matthew shares his inspiring journey from a struggling young adult to a successful business owner focused on helping others optimize their lives through mindset, nutrition, and muscle. Listen in as Matthew discusses the importance of gratitude, the power of asking the right questions, and the value of investing in your health and personal development.Key Takeaways:• Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneur: Matthew opens up about his early struggles in life and how a mindset shift, combined with faith and humility, led him to embrace gratitude and ultimately transform his life. He shares how his dissatisfaction with his corporate job sparked his interest in real estate, leading to his first investments and the eventual transition into full-time entrepreneurship.• The Power of Asking Questions: Matthew emphasizes the importance of curiosity and asking the right questions while still in a nine-to-five job. He reflects on how he wishes he had asked more questions during his corporate career, which could have accelerated his journey into entrepreneurship.• Investing in Yourself: Matthew talks about the pivotal moments when he decided to invest heavily in his education and personal development, including spending $20,000 on a real estate conference. He explains how these investments paid off, allowing him to fast-track his success in the real estate and business world.• The Path to Optimal Health: Matthew discusses his passion for health and wellness, detailing how he started with small changes like cold showers and nutritional adjustments. This journey led him to co-found Full-Fueled, a health and wellness clinic focused on functional wellness, chiropractic care, and helping men optimize their lives through the "MNM" approach: Mindset, Nutrition, and Muscle.• Being a Forever Athlete: Matthew introduces the concept of being a "forever athlete," encouraging men to approach their day with the mindset of an athlete, regardless of their profession. He stresses the importance of building muscle for longevity and maintaining a proactive approach to health.About the Guest:Struggles with depression and insecurities required deep reconciliation. Matt, on the brink of leaving his wife at the age of 26, made the pivotal decision to enter a Celebrate Recovery Program. After completing the 90-day program, he discovered a renewed sense of purpose, committing to living a life of meaning. Today, he is the father of three girls, aged 7, 6, and 4, and has been married for 12 years. Matt is dedicated to setting a new standard of living, which he refers to as "Full-Fueled." He owns several businesses that are centered on human longevity and optimal performance.Links:Instagram: @human.optimizer and @fullfielddocFast Five Questions1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I would immediately open up my Rolodex and reach out to trusted relationships. I believe in never burning bridges and always maintaining good standing relationships."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "Investing in a real estate deal in an unfamiliar area without thoroughly understanding the underwriting. This mistake led to a foreclosure, and now I make sure to invest only in areas and deals I know well."3. What is a book that you would recommend?• The Bible - "Specifically the Celebrate...

Transforming Education: How John Foster's Middle School MBA Is Teaching Kids Real-World Business SkillsIn this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel talks with John Foster, the founder of Middle School MBA, a unique program that provides middle school students with an executive MBA-level education. John shares how his extensive experience in business and his passion for teaching led him to create a program that equips young students with advanced business, economics, and entrepreneurship skills. Listen in as John explains how his curriculum is changing the way students think about business and education, and how it’s being implemented in schools around the world.Key Takeaways:• From Industry to Education: John Foster describes his journey from a 33-year career in industry, where he built and ran plants, to developing a curriculum that teaches middle school students advanced business concepts. His work with Junior Achievement inspired him to create his own educational program, Middle School MBA.• Innovative Approach to Teaching: Middle School MBA combines business, economics, and entrepreneurship into a cohesive curriculum that is taught through teachers in small groups. The program is designed to be scalable and is currently being used in schools, homeschools, and summer camps around the world.• Real-World Applications for Students: John discusses how the curriculum engages students by having them participate in realistic business activities, such as negotiating, optimizing a factory, and understanding the laws of supply and demand. These exercises not only teach important business concepts but also help students develop critical life skills.• Global Impact: In addition to its core program, Middle School MBA is working on an ultra-low-cost version to be implemented in schools in Africa and Asia. John’s vision is to provide the best business education to students worldwide, regardless of their economic background.• Empowering the Next Generation: The program not only prepares students for potential careers in business but also strengthens family bonds by giving parents and children a common language and understanding of business concepts. It’s changing the way students approach their education and their future.About the Guest:John Rock Foster: the mind of an entrepreneur, soul of a teacher. Author, executive, angel investor, and lifelong student of markets, John’s career failed its way through process engineering, operations, business management, M&A, and corporate strategy; finally failing big enough to exit. He now teaches kids the lowdown on business and entrepreneurship, hoping they will fail bigger and sooner. Middle School MBA has pioneered this space, learning to teach the most advanced concepts to the youngest kids in a way that fascinates and excites them. It is the future of business and economics for kids!Links:www.MiddleSchoolMBA.comFast Five Questions:1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "The first thing I'm going to do, what I did this morning, is go out and hike up the mountain, come back, take a shower, and then start seeing where to go. But honestly, I don't think that could happen to me because I have so many relationships that are set, things that are prepaid, and a life that would be very difficult for someone to disrupt just by stealing the stuff you can see."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "The biggest mistake was getting into something I didn't understand. When I first started, I needed a web designer, and this dude conned me out of a lot of money because I didn't know what I

Designing a Fulfilling Retirement: How David Buck Helps Clients Master the Non-Financial Side of RetirementIn this episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, host Jeff Kikel talks with David Buck, an expert in helping people navigate the non-financial aspects of retirement. David specializes in guiding clients through the emotional and lifestyle changes that come with retirement, helping them design a meaningful and purposeful post-career life. Listen in as David shares his insights on how to prepare for retirement beyond the numbers, including managing time, maintaining social connections, and finding new purpose in the next chapter of life.Key Takeaways:• Transitioning from Career to Retirement: David shares his journey from business development to founding Kyros Management Solutions and eventually creating the Infinity Lifestyle Design program. He emphasizes the importance of planning for the non-financial aspects of retirement to ensure a fulfilling and purposeful life.• Understanding the Emotional Side of Retirement: David explains the challenges that retirees face, such as losing their professional identity and social connections. He highlights the importance of envisioning and planning a post-career lifestyle that aligns with one’s values and interests.• The Importance of a Support Network: David discusses the need for strong relationships with both financial professionals and loved ones when planning for retirement. He also touches on the common challenges couples face when one or both partners retire and spend significantly more time together.• Balancing Work and Personal Life in Retirement: David offers advice on how to decide whether to continue working in retirement and how to balance this with personal goals and family expectations. He encourages retirees to redefine their roles and consider flexible work arrangements that align with their desired lifestyle.• Tools for Optimizing Time and Lifestyle: David introduces his Time Optimized Life approach, which includes assessments to help clients identify their strengths and opportunities. He also shares tips on how to effectively manage time and maintain flexibility in both work and personal life during retirement.About the Guest:David Buck, founder of The Infinity Lifestyle Design, leverages over three decades of experience in business development to help individuals and couples optimize their time in both their careers and retirement. As a Certified Professional Retirement Coach, he focuses on creating comprehensive post-career strategies that encompass spiritual, mental, social, physical, and financial aspects. David’s approach is rooted in his personal experience, aiming to blend career and personal life seamlessly. His goal is to guide clients toward a fulfilling and flexible lifestyle that excites and motivates them.Links:https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/Fast Five Questions:1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "The first thing I will do is I'm going to pray because I'm going to need clarity and peace of mind to be able to make the next step. So it'll start there to help me set the right time frame and mindset to then move forward."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "The biggest business mistake I made was not being forceful enough when I realized that the revenue plan for a large customer was unrealistic. I should have been more assertive in addressing the issue early on."3. What is a book that you would recommend? "Deep Work by Cal...

In this inspiring episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, we dive into Matt's transformative journey from a high-ranking corporate career to achieving financial independence through his family-centered podcast, "Programming Lions," and social media channel, GSD Nation. Matt shares candid insights on the pivotal moments that led him to redefine his life's work, the challenges of leaving a stable job, and how he harnessed his entrepreneurial spirit to build a successful venture with his kids. Listen as he offers invaluable advice for anyone looking to make a meaningful career transition and achieve financial freedom.Key Takeaways:• Embracing Change: Learn about the importance of recognizing when a corporate career no longer aligns with your values and the courage it takes to step away from a stable, high-paying job to pursue a more fulfilling path.• The Role of Passion: Matt discusses how following his passion for entrepreneurship and spending quality time with his kids led him to create a thriving podcast and social media presence, promoting traditional and conservative values.• Starting a Business Amid Uncertainty: Discover how Matt navigated the uncertainties of starting a new venture with his children, leveraging their curiosity and the digital age to build a successful online presence and engage with their audience.• Financial Freedom Focus: Gain insights into the strategies Matt used to achieve financial independence, including maximizing stock programs, creating passive income streams, and the importance of having a supportive network.• Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Matt offers practical tips for entrepreneurs, including the significance of consistent content creation, the power of community engagement, and the value of instilling entrepreneurial skills in the next generation.About the Guest:Matt Morstad, the Founder of GSD Nation and dynamic host of the "Programming Lions" podcast, exemplifies both courage and dedication. Matt made a career out of solving complex and tricky problems. Frustrated with the broad trend of complacency and growing apathy among corporate leaders, he chose to exit the corporate world and security of a 7-figure salary to embark on a unique journey inspiring and educating people through his social media platform, GSD Nation. Matt thrives to foster critical thinking skills in his children and his audience while tackling various contentious issues with empathy and curiosity to build a more productive self.The "Programming Lions" podcast, started by this father with his children, is more than just a platform for dialogue—it's promoting growth, wellness, and productive habits. With a unique combination of conservative viewpoints and compassionate narratives, Matt strives to empower his audience, helping them navigate through our world today.A resident of Phoenix, Arizona, Matt enjoys quality time with his family, fitness, and golf. He warmly welcomes opportunities to guest star on other podcasts, where he can candidly discuss current issues, and aims to cultivate a generation of objective, rational, and critical thinkers ready to tackle the nation's most significant challenges and Get Sh!t Done.Links:https://www.gsd-nation.com/Fast Five Questions1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I set up social media channels immediately on all the major platforms, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn. And I still have my mind and my contacts maybe."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "Not terminating somebody when I should have. So I...

Breaking Down Economic Indicators and Financial Strategies with Jeff Kickel and Ron LangIn this episode of the Cents of Things podcast, hosts Jeff Kikel and Ron Lang delve into financial planning, the state of the stock market, and the current economic climate. They share insights on upcoming presidential debates and their potential impacts on the market, discuss peculiar historical facts like Burger King's 'Whopper Wine' and quirks from 'The Wizard of Oz' film. The duo also explores the highs and lows of investing in sectors like solar energy, the nuances of managing retirement funds, and the role of unusual economic indicators like the 'lipstick recession.' The episode balances informative content with engaging anecdotes and humor.00:00 Introduction to Cents of Things Podcast00:45 Political Season and Presidential Debates02:21 Fun Facts and Trivia05:30 Market Forecast and Economic Indicators11:43 Investment Ideas and Solar Energy Discussion15:42 Wind Energy and Final Thoughts17:28 Conclusion and Farewell

Lipstick Recession and Wind Turbine Woes: Unpacking Economic Trends | Cents of ThingsIn today's episode, the Cents of Things team dives into the latest economic indicators and market analysis with Ron. The discussion starts with a lighthearted critique of the upcoming political season and presidential debates, followed by intriguing historical facts about 'The Wizard of Oz' and Burger King's Whopper wine. They then explore the high levels of the current market, factors affecting it, and potential risks. Solar energy and its industry challenges are also reviewed, capped with a look into unconventional economic indicators like the lipstick recession indicator. Tune in for an engaging mix of finance, fun facts, and candid commentary.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:33 Political Season and Presidential Debates02:08 Fun Facts and Trivia05:16 Market Analysis and Predictions08:23 Economic Indicators and Credit Conditions11:29 Investment Ideas: Solar and Wind Energy17:12 Conclusion and FarewellYou can also catch the show on our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheCentsOfThingsTo Follow Jeff Kikelwww.LinkedIn.com/in/JeffKikelwww.FreedomDayWealth.comTo Follow Ron Langwww.linkedin.com/in/RonLangBuildsWealthwww.AtlasBuildsWealth.com

Ron shares intriguing insights about the market trends, including the dominance of top stocks and Apple's market cap bump. Jeff delves into the CPI data, highlighting the rising costs in electricity, transportation services, and shelter. The discussion also touches on the unique retail landscape in small towns, focusing on Dollar General's presence and the investment by Yum! Brands in Pizza Hut.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on various topics affecting the economy and everyday life. Don't forget to subscribe to the channel, leave your feedback, and stay tuned for more engaging episodes!

Is the economy headed for a "Soft Landing" or an Iceberg? In this episode, we dive into the world of Florida men with some hilarious and bizarre stories. From cleaning houses to time-traveling attempts, Florida men never fail to entertain.Then, we focus on the economy, discussing whether we are heading for a soft landing or an iceberg. Jeff and Ron analyze key indicators like job openings, non-farm payrolls, inflation, and home prices to provide insights into the current economic landscape.The discussion also touches on the trend of "unretiring," where older workers are rejoining the labor market in their 60s and 70s. Jeff and Ron share their perspectives on why some retirees continue working and how it impacts the workforce.Tune in for a blend of humor, market analysis, and thought-provoking insights in this episode of "The Cents of Things." Don't forget to subscribe, hit the upvote button, and join our growing community of listeners. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to having you back for the next episode!You can also catch the show on our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheCentsOfThingsTo Follow Jeff Kikelwww.LinkedIn.com/in/JeffKikelwww.FreedomDayWealth.comTo Follow Ron Langwww.linkedin.com/in/RonLangBuildsWealthwww.AtlasBuildsWealth.com

Welcome to another episode of The Cents of Things with Ron and Jeff! In this episode, we dive into the world of finance, discussing the latest economic trends, the market mania surrounding NVIDIA, and some interesting historical facts. We cover everything from the valuation of tech giants to the divergence in economic indicators.Join us as we analyze the Chicago business barometer, ISM manufacturing data, job openings, and labor turnover statistics. We will also touch on the recent surprises in government job hiring and ADP unemployment numbers.Tune in for insightful discussions, market insights, and a few laughs. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel and leave us an upvote if you enjoy the content. Your support means the world to us! Stay informed and entertained with The Cents of Things. See you in the next episode!You can also catch the show on our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@TheCentsOfThingsTo Follow Jeff Kikelwww.LinkedIn.com/in/JeffKikelwww.FreedomDayWealth.comTo Follow Ron Langwww.linkedin.com/in/RonLangBuildsWealthwww.AtlasBuildsWealth.com

In this inspiring episode of the Freedom Nation Podcast, we explore Georgia Homsany’s transformative journey from a high-pressure corporate career to founding her own successful corporate wellness company, Daily Dose. Georgia shares candid insights on the pivotal moments that led her to redefine her life's work, her struggles with burnout, and how she harnessed her passion for wellness to create a thriving business. Listen as she offers invaluable advice for anyone looking to make a meaningful career transition.Key Takeaways:• Embracing Change: Learn about the importance of recognizing burnout and the courage it takes to step away from a seemingly dream job to pursue a more fulfilling path.• The Role of Passion: Georgia discusses how following her passion for wellness, rather than returning to the familiar realm of marketing, helped her find true professional satisfaction and success.• Starting a Business Amid Uncertainty: Discover how Georgia navigated the uncertainties of starting a business during the pandemic and the strategic decisions that led to her success.• Corporate Wellness Focus: Gain insights into the growing need for corporate wellness programs that address not only physical health but also mental well-being, and how Georgia’s company, Daily Dose, is leading the charge.• Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Georgia offers practical tips for entrepreneurs, including the importance of networking, finding a support system, and the power of positive self-talk.About the Guest:Georgia Homsany is the Founder & CEO of Daily Dose Wellness, a corporate wellness company providing virtual “wellness breaks” to give employees the time needed to prevent burnout and promote positive mental health.She is a self-taught wellness guru with a business background and has completed courses on “Managing your Mental Health during COVID,” Yoga Psychology and Decoding Digestion.She is a member of the Raleigh Metro Society for Human Resource Management and writes their Wellness Blog. She also serves on the Program Advisory Committee for Everglades University.Georgia is a New Jersey native with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the University of Scranton and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Boston University. She is trained in Reiki, has traveled to 32 countries (planned for 37 by the end of 2024!), and loves Yoga and Human Design.Links:https://georgiahomsany.com/Fast Five Questions:1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I would actually go to a conference. I don't know what conference but I want to go to an event where I would feel like I have the opportunity to meet people and be inspired and I think that would Give me indication of what to do next."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "I would say not investing In marketing and different tools earlier on I think we try to do everything ourselves in the beginning. And if I had just taken my savings and instead of harboring if I had just come up with a plan okay this is how we're going to come out of the gate and how we're going to invest that money. I think I would be. Maybe further along earlier."3. What is a book that you would recommend? "You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero”4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? "LinkedIn Sales Navigator."5. What is your definition of freedom? ”I think freedom is. Being able to do live your life however...

In this empowering episode of the Freedom Nation podcast, host Jeff Kikel sits down with Lucie Ptasznik, a remarkable entrepreneur who transformed her childhood passion for horses into a thriving seven-figure business. Lucie shares her inspiring journey from craving horse ownership as a young girl to becoming a leading figure in the equestrian industry, all while overcoming the conventional confines of corporate life. Discover Lucie's insights into leveraging the laws of the universe, the pivotal role of mindset in achieving success, and her strategic move into real estate for financial stability.Key Takeaways:• Lucie's Early Passion: Discover how Lucie's childhood dream of owning a horse transformed into a lucrative business that blends her love for equestrian activities with savvy entrepreneurship.• Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship: Gain insights into Lucie's decision to leave her secure corporate job and the pivotal moments that propelled her toward pursuing her passion full-time.• Building a Business from Passion: Learn how Lucie built and scaled a seven-figure business by training and selling horses, and how she later expanded into one of Michigan's largest public trail riding companies.• Challenges and Triumphs: Lucie shares the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey, including the challenges she faced and how she overcame them to find success and personal fulfillment.• Leveraging Multiple Income Streams: Explore how Lucie diversifies her income through real estate investments and other ventures to create a stable financial base that supports her equestrian business.• Quantum Physics and Personal Growth: Lucie discusses how she uses principles of quantum physics to coach others on achieving their own goals and living intentionally.• Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Lucie offers practical advice for listeners contemplating a leap from a traditional career path to one driven by passion and entrepreneurship.About the Guest:Lucie Ptasznik is a captivating National Speaker and Manifestation Coach known for lighting up rooms and inspiring transformation through her personal experiences of placing faith over fear. Despite the challenges of growing up in the suburbs of Detroit with big dreams of one day owning her own horse, it wasn’t long before she was training and selling horses all over the country and then went on to accidentally open one of Michigan’s most successful public trail riding companies!! Graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors from the University of Michigan fluent in Spanish, Portuguese and French, Lucie's decision to leave the comfort and security of Corporate America to follow her passion and live life on her terms was a defining moment, marked by both immense fear and extraordinary reward. Lucie specializes in teaching people the principles of quantum physics, the laws of the universe and the power of intention. She gives people the tools to instantly shift their state, raise their vibration and deliberately create the life of their dreams. Passionate about meditation, she empowers others to kick start their meditation journeys and visualization practices to collapse time lines and accelerate their success.Fascinated by mind hacking tools and techniques to reprogram the subconscious mind, she emphasizes the importance of repetitious study, releasing limiting beliefs and crafting new empowering narratives.Lucie’s journey brilliantly illustrates how to courageously overcome fear by leaping outside of your comfort zone and embracing unshakable faith. She understands that we are all in on this together, all divinely connected, and explains the quickest way to true success and ultimate fulfillment is through selfless love and service to...

In this episode of the Freedom Nation podcast, host Jeff Kikel talks with Ingo Schulmeyer about his inspiring journey from a high-level position in the semiconductor industry to finding personal and professional fulfillment through a drastic lifestyle change. Ingo shares how he and his family left their conventional lives behind to embrace new opportunities in Mexico, transitioning into a successful coaching career that helps others achieve their true potential.Key Takeaways:• Life Beyond the Paycheck: Ingo discusses the realization that his successful career and the conventional markers of success weren't fulfilling his deeper life aspirations. This led to his decision to leave behind the security of a steady paycheck for a more uncertain but potentially rewarding path.• The Decision to Move: Ingo and his family made a bold move to Mexico, selling all their belongings. This segment of the podcast delves into the logistics and emotional impact of making such a life-altering decision.• Adapting to New Realities: After initially traveling around Mexico, Ingo's family decided to settle in a city that felt right for them. He shares insights into the challenges and joys of adapting to a new culture, including the children's experience in local schools.• Career Transition to Coaching: Ingo discusses how he transitioned from his career in semiconductors to starting his own coaching business, focusing on transformational coaching to help others live the lives they truly deserve.• Mindset and Personal Growth: A significant part of the discussion focuses on the importance of mindset in achieving freedom. Ingo emphasizes the role of overcoming limiting beliefs and societal conventions to find personal happiness and fulfillment.About the Guest:Ingo Schulmeyer is a transformational health and life coach with a compelling journey from corporate life to personal fulfillment. Formerly a director in the semiconductor industry, Ingo left his high-stakes career to seek inner peace and a healthier, more balanced life. This quest led him to relocate with his family to Mexico, where he now helps others achieve similar transformations through his coaching program. Ingo is passionate about helping individuals make fundamental changes for a healthier, happier, and more energetic life. Additionally, Ingo is an accomplished athlete, having completed six Ironman competitions, including the prestigious World Championships in Hawaii. His adventures and experiences enrich his coaching, making him a unique and inspiring figure for many seeking significant life changes.Links:https://thesmallreset.org/linkedin.com/in/ingoschulmeyerFast Five Questions:1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? "I would start the same journey I did before, using my creativity and flexibility to come up with new ideas. I believe it's important to stay flexible and adaptable, focusing on the skills and knowledge I've accumulated over the years."2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? "My biggest business mistake was investing in 'shit coins' or cryptocurrencies without fully understanding the crypto market. I followed random videos and recommendations, which led to losing money."3. What is a book that you would recommend? "'Narcissus and Goldmund' by Hermann Hesse”4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? "I use journaling...

In this episode of Freedom Nation, host Jeff Kikel sits down with Marcos Jacober, an expert in tax deed investments and the author of "The Deed Hunter." From starting with only $100 to becoming a real estate mogul, Marcos shares his journey and reveals how tax deeds can be a path to financial freedom and real estate success.Key Takeaways:• Tax Deeds Explained: Learn what tax deeds are and how they offer a unique opportunity to invest in real estate at significantly lower costs.• Marcos Jacober’s Journey: From moving to the U.S. with just $100 to becoming a real estate mogul through tax deed investments.• The Power of Persistence: Marcos shares his initial setbacks and how perseverance turned his fortunes around, leading to the purchase and sale of over 4,500 properties.• Strategies for Success: Insights into Marcos’s investment strategies that have allowed him to maximize returns and minimize risks in the tax deed space.• Financial Freedom Through Real Estate: How real estate investing, particularly through tax deeds and liens, can be a path to financial independence.• Educational Resources: Marcos discusses the importance of education in real estate investing and offers resources for listeners to get started.About the Guest:Brazilian immigrant Marcos Jacober, also known as The Deed Hunter, is an investor, author, international speaker, and professor. He moved to the United States in 1998 with just a dream and $100 in his pocket, and worked various jobs before saving enough money to invest in real estate… but he lost everything in the 2008 financial crisis. After learning about taxes and deeds, he was able to close hundreds of real estate deals. Today, he is an authority in the real estate industry with over 3,000 transactions in his portfolio. A proud father of two, Jacober has helped thousands of people from different countries start their real estate investment career here in the USA.Links:https://thedeedhunterworld.com/https://www.instagram.com/thedeedhunterworld/Fast Five Questions1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Go to the tax office of the closest county, pull up the list of over-the-counter properties, buy a property for $500, and immediately start the process to sell it for a profit"2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “biggest business mistake was not focusing on scaling and believing that nobody could do as well as he did. He emphasizes the importance of empowering others and letting them learn through mistakes to truly create a passive income business.”3. What is a book that you would recommend? "Think and Grow Rich and The Secrets of Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker ”4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? "Virtual Assistants"5. What is your definition of freedom? “Is about having the liberty to do what you want, with whom you want, whenever you want. Marcos stresses that achieving financial freedom is more accessible than most people think, and it often just requires smart, strategic actions.”About Jeff: Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned...