This is the Way Podcast

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AI is no longer just a tool — it’s starting to reshape the very things that define us as human.
In this episode of This is the Way with Artin and Michael, we dive into one of the biggest questions of our time: Is AI evolving humanity… or replacing it? From creativity and education to relationships and love, AI is changing how we work, learn, and connect with each other faster than most people realize.
In this conversation, Artin and Michael explore:
• How AI is transforming creativity — and why it may actually amplify true creators rather than replace them
• Why the traditional education system may be completely disrupted by AI tutors and personalized learning
• The surprising ways AI could reshape human relationships, connection, and even love
• Where the biggest entrepreneurial opportunities will emerge in an AI-powered world
• Why the winners of the AI era may not be the creators — but the ones building the tools AI is moving fast, but the real question isn’t whether it will change the world.
The question is: are you paying attention to the opportunities?

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In this episode we break down the 5 Entrepreneurial Identities—a simple framework designed to help you stop copying gurus and start building a business that actually fits who you are. We walk through the five types—Teacher, Freelancer, Operator, Connector, and Productizer—and explain how each identity naturally aligns with certain business models, marketing styles, and paths to scale. The big takeaway: when your business doesn’t match your identity, you’re far more likely to burn out or stall—so knowing your identity can help you grow faster, choose better partners, and build with confidence.
[00:00] - Intro
[01:00] - Identity #1: The Teacher
[07:30] - Identity #2: The Freelancer
[11:00] - Identity #3: The Operator
[16:40] - Identity #4 + #5: Connector & Productizer
 
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Connect with Rand @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/randfishkin/
In this conversation, Rand Fishkin, CEO of SparkToro, discusses his journey from founding Moz to creating SparkToro, an audience research tool designed to democratize access to audience insights. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's audience, effective marketing strategies for early-stage businesses, and the role of AI in audience research. Rand shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, including the significance of founder-market fit and the need to focus on unique value propositions. He also reflects on his motivations and the lessons learned from his entrepreneurial experiences.
Takeaways
• SparkToro helps businesses understand their audience's behaviors and demographics.
• Effective marketing doesn't require a large budget; understanding your audience is key.
• Audience research should be accessible to everyone, not just those with big budgets.
• Identifying sources of influence is crucial for marketing success.
• Early-stage businesses should focus on understanding their ideal customers.
• AI can assist in brainstorming audience profiles and marketing strategies.
• Researching where your audience spends time online is essential for effective outreach.
• Not all marketing channels are suitable for every business; choose wisely based on your audience.
• Building a network is important for gaining early traction in business.
• Learning from past experiences can guide future entrepreneurial endeavors.

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In this episode, former dentist turned million-dollar creator Kieran Drew shares the full story of how he went from burned-out clinician to one of the internet’s most successful writing-based entrepreneurs. Kieran breaks down the exact mindset, writing habits, and validation frameworks that helped him turn a simple curiosity into a thriving business — without investors, without a big team, and without waiting for permission.
We cover:
• Why he walked away from dentistry after 10 years
• How writing every morning rewired his identity
• The “validate before you create” method behind his six-figure product launches
• How fear (and low savings) became the catalyst to take bold action
• The systems and AI workflows he uses to multiply productivity
• Why authenticity, proof, and repetition matter more than perfection
• His philosophy on burning things down, rebuilding, and staying aligned with your energy
Whether you're stuck in a “successful” career that doesn’t feel like yours… or you're an aspiring creator who wants to build income and impact through writing… this conversation will flip a switch in your mind. Watch the full episode to learn how Kieran wrote his way to freedom — and how you can apply the same playbook.
[00:00] Intro
[01:08] The Moment Writing Took Over
[03:31] Childhood Clues He Ignored [
07:58] Why Getting Your First Client Is So Hard
[14:11] The $500 Client That Started Everything
[27:48] His First $100K–$170K Product Launches
[33:00] “Validate Before You Create”
[40:47] How He Uses AI to Multiply Creativity

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Connect with Avetis @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/hirefasthireright/
In this conversation, Avetis Antaplyan shares his journey from a secure corporate job to becoming the founder of HireCloud, a tech recruiting firm. He discusses the mindset required to take the leap, the challenges faced during the transition, and the importance of building genuine relationships in business. Avetis emphasizes the role of AI in recruitment and how it is reshaping the industry. He also reflects on the need to unlearn corporate habits and adapt to a more entrepreneurial mindset. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of work and the importance of nurturing talent in a rapidly changing landscape.

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Connect with Todd @ https://x.com/_toddanderson
In this conversation, Todd Anderson shares his remarkable journey from being a mechanical engineer to running a successful web development agency generating $50,000 a month. He discusses the importance of persistence, the role of social media in his growth, and how he built a virtual assistant business. Todd emphasizes the need for adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of SEO and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, including the importance of starting and sharing their journey online.
Takeaways -Todd transitioned from a mechanical engineer to a web developer during COVID. -He built his first website for a family friend, which led to his first paying client. -Social media, particularly Twitter, played a crucial role in his business growth. -SEO is a constantly evolving field that requires adaptability and continuous learning. -Todd emphasizes the importance of not giving up in the face of challenges. -He built a successful virtual assistant business by leveraging his hiring skills. -Feedback from clients is essential for refining business strategies. -Todd's team culture is built on trust and mutual support. -He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to just start and share their journey online. -Mistakes are part of the journey; learning from them is key.
Chapters [00:00] Intro [05:48] The Power of Social Media in Business Growth [08:41] Navigating SEO Challenges and Strategies [11:48] Scaling from $500 to $50,000: Key Strategies [17:40] Leveraging Virtual Assistants for Growth [27:27] Exploring AI Training for Home Services [38:51] Navigating Business Challenges and Growth [51:03] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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Connect with Matt @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattlakajev/
What if you never had to stare at a blank page again? Matt Lakajev built a second brain—a system powered by his own thoughts, voice notes, and lived experience. It now creates his content, improves his sales calls, and scales his personal brand without spending hours “creating.” In this episode of This Is the Way, we break down:
How Matt cloned his brain (and how you can too)
The exact steps to build your own second brain
How to turn voice notes into infinite content
Why this system makes your expertise 10x more valuable
How far this can scale beyond content
🔁 Whether you’re a founder, coach, or consultant—this episode will flip how you think about content, systems, and leverage.

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📌 Connect with Hunter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunterpogatchnik/ 📌 Hunter's Program - https://www.selltheearth.com/store
📌 Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes
📌 Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/
📌 Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/
In this conversation, Hunter Pogatchnik shares his unique approach to real estate investing by flipping land instead of traditional properties. He discusses his journey from traditional real estate to discovering the profitability of land flipping, emphasizing the importance of understanding undervalued properties and the benefits of seller financing. Hunter explains his marketing strategies, the significance of building a team, and how technology can streamline the acquisition process. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring investors and shares insights on scaling his business while maintaining a focus on profitability.
Takeaways
• Hunter flipped over 100 properties in the past year.
• He started with traditional real estate before discovering land flipping.
• Undervalued land can be a lucrative investment opportunity.
• Seller financing is a key strategy in his business model.
• Marketing plays a crucial role in selling land effectively.
• Building a team allows for better scalability in the business.
• Technology can enhance the efficiency of real estate operations.
• Aspiring investors can start part-time while maintaining a full-time job.
• Networking and learning from experienced investors is essential.
• There are numerous opportunities in the land market with low competition.
 

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📌 Connect with Noor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/noorbarrage/
📌 Noor's free templates - https://nvbcollective.com/nvb-templates/
📌 Growth System Mentorship - https://www.growthsystems-nvbcollective.com/
📌 Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes
📌 Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/
📌 Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/
 
In this conversation, Noor Barrage, known as the 'systems girl', discusses the critical systems that startups and founders need to implement for success. She emphasizes the importance of project management, time management, and prioritization systems, as well as the need for a personal operating system for founders. Noor also shares her journey as an entrepreneur, the significance of metrics in business, and her plans to launch a digital product aimed at helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of running a business.
Takeaways
• Most first-time founders think systems come later.
• A clear project management system is essential for accountability.
• Time management is crucial for avoiding burnout.
• Prioritization systems help focus on what truly matters.
• Founders need a personal operating system to maintain behavior change.
• Metrics should be simple and relevant to the business.
• Team dynamics are influenced by the founder's behavior.
• Entrepreneurship can be a journey of self-discovery.
• Building a community is vital for support among entrepreneurs.
• Digital products can help scale mentorship and guidance for business owners.
Chapters
[00:00] Intro
[10:25] Mastering Time Management
[19:39] Establishing a Prioritization System
[25:29] The Personal Operating System
[28:31] The Importance of Metrics
[35:06] Tools for Success
[39:19] Navigating Growth Challenges
[45:05] Noor's Journey to Operations Expertise
[51:02] Redefining Success and Freedom in Business
[56:19] The Courage to Leap into Entrepreneurship

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📌 Connect with Varun - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vnegandhi/
📌 Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes
📌 Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/
📌 Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/
What does it really take to leave a stable six-figure job and bet on yourself? In this episode, we sit down with Varun Negandhi, who built a thriving business on the side—growing an audience of 75,000+ on LinkedIn—before making the bold leap into full-time entrepreneurship. But it wasn’t just about followers. It was about systems, self-discipline, and a service-first mindset that turned content into clients. Varun shares:
Why the perfect moment to quit rarely exists—and what he looked for instead
How he reverse-engineered success on LinkedIn (and why you should too)
His “Service Funnel” philosophy that will forever change how you think about sales
The real mindset shifts (and mental blockers) that matter after quitting your job
Tactical tips on pricing, offers, cohorts, and what actually converts
Whether you’re stuck in a job, growing a side hustle, or ready to scale your offer—this episode delivers the clarity and inspiration you’ve been waiting for.
👉 Press play. Your next move might be just one insight away.