This is the Way Podcast

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Ever wonder what it really takes to succeed in marketing and business, especially with the influence of giants like Tony Robbins? In this podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating journey of a martial artist who went from sleeping in his car to becoming a top speaker and consultant for Tony Robbins. Learn about his unique approach to sales, the "identity selling" method, and why focusing on automation over human connection is a huge mistake. Discover the simple yet powerful questions that can immediately boost your revenue and transform your business. This is a must-watch for anyone looking to understand true influence, impactful marketing, and the path to entrepreneurial success. [
00:00] Intro
[02:59] Discovering Tony Robbins
[05:46] Shift to Marketing Consulting
[08:00] Joining Tony Robbins' Team
[11:15] Tony Robbins' Philosophy on Sales and Action
[17:27] The Concept of Identity Selling
[20:50] The Importance of Understanding the Customer's Problem
[24:23] Transitioning from Tony Robbins and Starting "The Path"
[30:52] Simple Strategies for Business Growth

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Join us as Lisa, CEO of Gather (formerly Icebreaker), shares her incredible journey of building a company from the ground up. Discover how a product initially called Icebreaker evolved into Gather, navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, and how it found its niche in connecting remote teams and fostering meaningful conversations. Lisa dives into the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, the dynamics of co-founder relationships, fundraising strategies, and the valuable lessons learned from building and successfully exiting a company. Founder's Journey: Follow Lisa's path from starting Icebreaker to successfully selling Gather.
Strategic Pivoting: Learn how the company adapted its focus during changing market conditions.
Fundraising Insights: Get a candid look at attracting investors and navigating different funding rounds.
Team Dynamics: Understand the importance of co-founder relationships and emotional intelligence in leadership.
Acquisition Lessons: Discover key takeaways and challenges from the M&A process, including a major mistake.
[00:00] Intro
[02:44] Building the MVP and Early User Validation
[06:00] The Unexpected Boost from COVID-19
[13:11] Land and Expand Strategy: New Hire Onboarding Success
[18:01] Pivoting to Productivity and Product Adaptation
[30:27] Fundraising Journey: Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A Rounds [37:25] Emotional Intelligence as a Differentiator in Leadership
[42:43] Navigating Co-founder Conflicts and Operating Frameworks [50:24] The Rules of Venture Money and Different Exit Paths
[56:20] Learning from M&A Mistakes: A Major Misstep

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Think AI is too technical to make money from? Think again. Ritesh Verma breaks down how he builds and sells AI agents — some with no code — to automate workflows for clients and bring in over $20K/month. Whether you're technical or not, you'll learn how to identify problems, build automation products, and find clients fast using Reddit, YouTube, and smart delegation.
Key Takeaways from This Episode:
📌How Ritesh scaled to $20K/month building and selling AI agents — while still working full-time at a Fortune 100 company.
📌The power of delegation: why outsourcing and team-building early can help you grow faster without burning out.
📌Tools like N8N, Make, and Cursor make it possible to build AI agents with little to no code — even for non-technical founders.
📌How to find profitable agent ideas by solving your own problems first — then validating demand through Reddit and YouTube.
📌Why mentorship and personal brand matter — and how Ritesh turned his knowledge into a high-ticket program that tripled his 9-5 salary.
Chapters
[00:00] Intro
[02:58]The Journey from College to Entrepreneurship
[09:02] Exploring Web Automation Opportunities
[14:55] Mastering Time Management and Delegation
[21:34] Balancing Full-Time Work and Entrepreneurial Aspirations
[25:42] The Evolution of Entrepreneurial Mindset
[26:35] Learning from Corporate Experience
[32:01] Starting a Business in the Age of AI
[34:21] Finding Problems to Solve in Business
[36:47] Marketing and Selling Your Product
[42:27] The Future of AI Products
[45:02] Building in Public and Personal Branding
[46:32] The Journey of Content Creation
[49:11] Growth Strategies and Mentorship
[56:52] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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In this conversation, Thomas Ryan Oakes discusses the importance of outbound marketing for client acquisition, debunking the myth that a large audience or paid ads are necessary. He emphasizes the need for personalized outreach that focuses on solving potential clients problems through value offers. Thomas shares his journey from entrepreneurship to establishing a successful outbound marketing system, detailing the steps involved in crafting effective outreach messages, targeting the right audience, and creating compelling value offers. He also highlights the differences between B2B and B2C outreach and the significance of personalization in communication. In this conversation, Thomas Ryan Oakes shares insights on effective outreach strategies, emphasizing the importance of value offers, audience targeting, and the use of AI tools. He discusses the significance of understanding the audience's pain points, the role of conversational marketing, and how to handle rejection in cold outreach. The discussion also covers essential tools for outreach, the setup process, and the importance of tracking success in campaigns.
takeaways • Outbound is the fastest way to start real conversations. • Most people think they need a large audience or paid ads. • Start solving their problem right away to gain trust. • Cold outreach can feel painful, but it doesn't have to be. • Lead with giving something valuable instead of asking for something. • There's a big gap in the market for effective outreach strategies. • Your LinkedIn profile is your first impression for potential clients. • Understanding the burning problem of prospects is crucial for outreach success. • Creating a video can be an effective value offer. • Always ask permission before sending your value offer. Using AI can enhance conversational outreach. • Value offers should be tailored to the audience's needs. • Email marketing is crucial for nurturing leads. • Choosing the right outreach channel depends on the target market size. • Automation in outreach requires careful strategy to avoid pitfalls. • Learning from failures is key to improving outreach efforts. • Tracking metrics helps refine outreach strategies. • Handling rejection is part of the process; persistence is essential. • Creating a compelling value offer is foundational to outreach success. • Engaging with prospects about their pain points leads to better offers.
 
Chapters
[00:00] Intro
[03:03] Building Trust
[08:55] Crafting Effective Outreach Messages
[15:05] Creating Compelling Value Offers
[18:12] The Importance of Personalization
[20:53] Navigating B2B vs B2C Outreach
[28:49] The Power of Conversational Outreach
[34:21] Choosing the Right Outreach Channel
[35:58] Essential Tools for Effective Outreach
[46:55] Tracking Success in Outreach Campaigns
[50:49] Handling Rejection in Cold Outreach

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Struggling to scale your business past the $1 million mark and break through growth-stopping complexity? This episode with CEO Coach Herb Cogliano is packed with actionable insights into the "Scaling Up" methodology!
Join Herb Cogliano, a Scaling Up practitioner, as he shares his journey and how to implement Verne Harnish's renowned "Scaling Up" system. Learn to build a business with more cash, freedom, and impact by focusing on people, strategy, execution, and cash. Herb discusses overcoming the "ceiling of complexity," defining an emotionally driven purpose, and making crucial strategic pivots.
 
Key Takeaways:
📌Understand "Scaling Up": A growth methodology for small to mid-market companies.
📌Overcome Growth Plateaus: Why companies get stuck and how to break through.
📌The Power of Purpose & Values: Uncover a meaningful purpose that motivates your team beyond financial goals.
📌Implement Rockefeller Habits: Ensure flawless execution with these 10 essential habits.
📌Leadership Development: Shift from "doer" to developing next-level leaders.
📌Scaling Up vs. Traction (EOS): Understand the key differences and benefits.
📌Real Success Stories: Examples of businesses transforming profitability and culture.
#ScalingUp #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #CEO #SmallBusiness #BusinessStrategy #Leadership #HerbKogan #VerneHarnish #RockefellerHabits #BusinessPodcast #GrowthMindset #ScalingSecrets

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In this powerful episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Helena Liu — AI & automation expert, systems strategist, and the founder of Product Camps, Whiteboards AI, and ChatLemon. Helena is on a mission to help businesses turn AI from a buzzword into a real-time-saving, efficiency-boosting powerhouse. With a track record of helping thousands of entrepreneurs streamline their workflows, Helena shares exactly how to leverage automation and AI tools to scale smarter, not harder. From building systems that free up your time to creating tech stacks that actually work, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
✅ Building automation systems that scale
✅ Turning AI into practical business tools
✅ Common automation mistakes (and how to avoid them)
✅ Helena’s favorite AI tools for entrepreneurs
✅ How to build a business that runs without you
Whether you’re a solopreneur, founder, or team leader looking to free up time and increase impact — this conversation will transform how you approach tech, time, and scale.
[00:00] – Intro
[08:17] – Learning strategies for growth
[11:20] – Using AI to grow on YouTube
[24:20] – Finding your niche in automation
[30:18] – Custom GPTs & personalizing outputs
[37:12] – Advice for beginners starting in AI
[44:46] – Using ChatGPT Deep Research
#AIForBusiness #AutomationTools #HelenaLiu #CustomGPT #ProductivityHacks #EntrepreneurLife #AIContentCreation #ScalableSystems #AIWorkflows #Solopreneur

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Unlock the future of sales with AI! In this power-packed episode, we dive deep into how Artificial Intelligence is transforming sales teams and driving unprecedented results. Frank, a seasoned sales leader, and Jake, an AI development expert and the founders of Aentic Brain, share their insider secrets on leveraging AI to:
🚀 Boost sales productivity
⏰ Save valuable time on admin tasks (up to 40%!) [cite: 1, 5, 11]
💰 Increase revenue and close more deals
🤝 Build stronger customer relationships
🤖 Automate key sales processes
🎯 And much more!
 
They reveal how AI isn't about replacing salespeople, but about empowering them to become "superhero" sellers. You'll learn actionable strategies, real-world case studies, and the truth about AI's capabilities in sales. If you're a sales professional, sales manager, or business leader, this video is your roadmap to mastering AI in sales and staying ahead of the curve.
✨ Don't miss out on these game-changing insights! ✨
#AISales #SalesAutomation #AITools #SalesProductivity #SalesTips #BusinessGrowth #FutureOfSales #SalesTechnology #CRM #LeadGeneration #AenticBrain

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📌 https://hallstoneventures.com/
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In this special episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Seth Hallen — a visionary in the Media & Entertainment Technology space, an AI & MediaTech angel investor, and a trusted advisor helping shape the future of storytelling through innovation.
With 25+ years of experience across venture capital, media tech leadership, and AI-driven storytelling, Seth has built a legacy of enabling creators, founders, and startups to thrive at the intersection of creativity and technology. His deep-rooted passion for narrative — sparked by childhood movie experiences — continues to guide his mission to bring groundbreaking tech into the hands of storytellers. From the evolution of MediaTech to the emerging influence of AI in entertainment, Seth dives into what’s next for creators, how investors are thinking about innovation, and why storytelling will always be at the heart of progress.
🔹 25+ years in media & entertainment tech
🔹 AI & MediaTech angel investor & VC advisor
🔹 Former CEO & board member in leading M&E companies
🔹 Passionate about storytelling + tech evolution
🔹 Insight into funding, innovation, and the future of media
Get ready for a deeply insightful and forward-looking conversation with Seth Hallen as we explore how AI is reshaping storytelling, what founders must know to succeed in MediaTech, and how creativity and tech can co-exist for the future of content.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
-The current struggles of the media & entertainment industry
-Why YouTube and Netflix are evolving differently
-The real impact of AI on VFX and storytelling How creators and technologists can collaborate better
-Why human creativity still matters (even in an AI-driven future)
-The biggest opportunities in MediaTech right now
-What the future of content creation really looks like
AI in filmmaking, Hollywood vs AI, Netflix AI strategy, storytelling and AI, VFX future, media tech trends 2025, entertainment industry insights, AI in VFX, Seth Hallen podcast, creative tech podcast, AI in entertainment, YouTube media strategy, future of storytelling
#AIinMedia #NetflixVsYouTube #Hollywood2025 #FutureOfStorytelling #VFXRevolution #AIvsCreativity #MediaTech #ContentCreationFuture #SethHallen #ThisIsTheWayPodcast
[00:00] Intro
[02:00] Struggles in the Media Industry
[09:50] YouTube vs. Netflix Trends
[17:50] Biggest Industry Opportunities
[22:40] The Role of VFX in Entertainment
[30:30] AI as a Creative Tool
[35:55] Humans vs. AI in Storytelling
[40:25] Describing Ourselves Through Content

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In this powerful episode of This is the Way Podcast, we're joined by Ian Tenenbaum — a seasoned entrepreneur, ADHD mentor, and startup veteran with over 20 years of hands-on experience in building, scaling, and selling businesses.
Ian has helped countless entrepreneurs with ADHD get organized, stay focused, and follow through — all while navigating the rollercoaster world of startups. From leading two companies to the Inc. 500 list to securing deals with top Fortune 500 brands, Ian’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. In this episode, Ian gets real about the challenges behind the scenes — including the battles most founders don’t talk about. Whether you're neurodivergent or just looking to gain clarity and structure in your entrepreneurial path, Ian’s approach to mindful productivity and focus will change the way you work.
🔹 Helped ADHD founders stay focused & finish
🔹 20+ years of experience in startups
🔹 Led 2 companies to the Inc. 500
🔹 Built, scaled & sold multiple businesses
🔹 Real strategies for neurodiverse entrepreneurs
Get ready for a raw, honest, and uplifting conversation as Ian shares tools, lessons, and real-life strategies to help entrepreneurs gain clarity, create a plan, and follow through — even when it’s hard.
01:00] Intro
06:10] The Turning Point
09:40] an’s Breakthrough Journey
16:00] Actionable Steps for ADHD Entrepreneurs
22:48] Leading a Team with ADHD
30:22] Mindset & Management Tips
38:00] Thoughts on Elon Musk & ADHD
47:00] Finding Clarity
#ProductivityTips #BusinessGrowth #PodcastClips #MentalHealthAwareness #IanTenenbaum #ADHDEntrepreneur #StartupMindset #FocusHacks #FounderJourney #NeurodivergentSuccess

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In this power-packed episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Jay Melone—founder of the “Wedge Offers” framework, a business strategist who’s helping B2B consultants attract dream clients, increase monthly revenue, and become the go-to expert in their niche. Jay built a 35-person consultancy—only to find himself drowning in work and disconnected from what truly mattered. But instead of burning out, he reinvented the way consultants grow and sell by developing a scalable, simplified system that builds authority and automates client acquisition. Now, he’s sharing how Wedge Offers are changing the game for consultants and service-based businesses in 2025 and beyond.
🔹 Creator of the Wedge Offers Framework
🔹 Built & scaled a 35-person consultancy
🔹 Expert in client acquisition & offer positioning
🔹 Helping B2B consultants simplify, scale & thrive
🔹 Real strategies to escape the freelancer trap and own your niche
Whether you're a coach, consultant, freelancer, or agency owner—this episode will unlock the mindset, models, and messaging needed to stop chasing leads and start attracting them on autopilot.
🎧 Tune in now for behind-the-scenes strategies and expert business clarity with Jay Melone!
Sign up to the podcast newsletter and get insights from each episode sent to your inbox. https://thevelocitylabs.com/this-is-the-way-newsletter Help us get to 10,000 subscribes. Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael Connect with Jay - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymelone Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes Book free 1:1 with Artin - https://calendly.com/thisisthewayshow/1-1-with-artin Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/ Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/ In this power-packed episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Jay Melone—founder of the “Wedge Offers” framework, a business strategist who’s helping B2B consultants attract dream clients, increase monthly revenue, and become the go-to expert in their niche. Jay built a 35-person consultancy—only to find himself drowning in work and disconnected from what truly mattered. But instead of burning out, he reinvented the way consultants grow and sell by developing a scalable, simplified system that builds authority and automates client acquisition. Now, he’s sharing how Wedge Offers are changing the game for consultants and service-based businesses in 2025 and beyond. 🔹 Creator of the Wedge Offers Framework 🔹 Built & scaled a 35-person consultancy 🔹 Expert in client acquisition & offer positioning 🔹 Helping B2B consultants simplify, scale & thrive 🔹 Real strategies to escape the freelancer trap and own your niche Whether you're a coach, consultant, freelancer, or agency owner—this episode will unlock the mindset, models, and messaging needed to stop chasing leads and start attracting them on autopilot. 🎧 Tune in now for behind-the-scenes strategies and expert business clarity with Jay Melone!
#ConsultingSuccess #B2BOffers #JayMelone #ServiceBusinessTips #WedgeOffers #PodcastInterview #BusinessBurnout #AgencyOwnerLife #SalesWithoutSelling #entrepreneurjourney
 
[00:00] Intro
[01:33] Jay’s Journey So Far
[10:21] Common Business Challenges
[18:38] Jay’s Unique Approach
[21:02] Creating Offers for Clients
[29:43] Why Your Offer is Just a Product
[32:00] Future of Sales & Positioning
[39:36] How AI is Shaping Business
[50:50] Skills You Need in Consulting