Blaze Your Own Trail

https://www.instagram.com/masteryourtalk/

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

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Mastering Communication with Brenden Kumarasamy Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Brenden, the founder of MasterTalk, who shares his inspiring journey from overcoming childhood adversity to mastering the art of communication. Brenden discusses his early struggles with language and physical disability, his academic transformation in high school, and the pivotal role of case competitions in developing his public speaking skills. He emphasizes the importance of individual paths in education and offers practical tips for improving communication skills, encouraging listeners to invest in themselves for personal and professional growth.

Takeaways

Brenden faced adversity from a young age, learning French while struggling with a physical disability.
His early interest in math led him to choose accounting as a career path.
Brenden's transformation in high school was driven by a crush, motivating him to improve academically.
He emphasizes the importance of individual paths in education, especially for immigrant families.
Brenden discovered case competitions as a way to enhance his communication skills and secure internships.
His journey into public speaking began as a necessity to escape poverty and improve his career prospects.
Brenden's YouTube channel, MasterTalk, was born from a desire to share effective communication strategies.
He encourages practicing communication skills through exercises like the random word exercise.
Brenden believes that consistent practice leads to mastery in any field, including communication.
He highlights the importance of investing in oneself to achieve personal and professional goals.

Connect with Brenden:

/www.linkedin.com/in/brendenkumarasamy/

https://www.youtube.com/c/MasterTalks

Connect with Jordan:

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Homeless to TikTok Queen with Keenya Kelly Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Keenya Kelly, a video marketing expert known as the 'TikTok queen.' Keenya shares her entrepreneurial journey from childhood, her experiences in network marketing, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. She discusses the importance of personal development, the challenges of success and failure, and her transition into coaching and consulting. Keenya emphasizes the power of video marketing and collaboration, providing insights on how to go viral and build a personal brand.

Takeaways

Kenya Kelly teaches video marketing and social media strategies.
She was entrepreneurial from a young age, selling candy and pickle juice.
A supportive teacher helped her excel in school despite challenges.
Kenya's college journey led her to network marketing, which changed her life.
Personal development books transformed her mindset and success.
She became a top trainer in her network marketing company.
After losing everything, she rebuilt her life and career.
Kenya launched a successful natural hair care convention.
She embraced TikTok during the pandemic, leading to viral success.
Collaboration is key to growth and success in business.

Connect with Keenya:

Website: https://www.keenyakelly.com/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@keenyakelly

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keenyakelly

Connect with Jordan:

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Building Audiences in the AI Age with Austin Armstrong Oct 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews social media marketer and entrepreneur Austin Armstrong. Austin shares his journey from a challenging academic background to becoming a successful social media and SEO marketing agency founder. He discusses the importance of consistency, the evolution of social media platforms, and the strategies he used to build audiences on platforms like MySpace and TikTok. Austin emphasizes the need to diversify social media presence, own your audience, and leverage AI tools for content creation. He also provides actionable tips for growing on Facebook and maximizing engagement through collaboration and consistent posting.

Takeaways

Austin Armstrong has been a social media marketer for 20 years.
He started his first company focused on social media and SEO marketing.
Austin emphasizes the importance of consistency in business and sports.
He learned valuable lessons from his experiences in sports that apply to entrepreneurship.
Social media marketing has evolved significantly since the MySpace days.
Building an audience requires testing and iterating strategies.
Owning your audience is crucial to avoid losing your business.
Diversifying your social media presence protects against platform changes.
AI tools can automate content creation and scheduling.
Facebook is still a viable platform for growth and monetization.

Connect with Austin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinarmstrong90/

Check out Syllaby.io

Connect with Jordan:

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Childhood Rambunctiousness to Business Success with Laura DiBenedetto Sep 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Laura DiBenedetto, an entrepreneur and author who shares her journey from a rambunctious child in Charlton, Massachusetts, to a successful business owner and coach. Laura discusses her early influences, the challenges of starting a business at 19, and the evolution of her marketing agency. She emphasizes the importance of personal development for business growth, the impact of AI on marketing, and her experience with self-publishing her book. Laura provides valuable insights and tips for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to achieve success.

Takeaways

Laura helps business owners realize their potential.
She had a rambunctious childhood filled with outdoor adventures.
Started her first business at 19 due to being unemployable.
Her marketing agency has evolved over 25 years.
AI is a tool that can enhance business efficiency.
Personal development is crucial for business success.
Self-publishing allows for creative control and higher profits.
Writing her book was a journey of self-discovery.
She emphasizes the importance of strategy in business.
Assuming challenges will be hard leads to better preparation.

Connect with Laura:

Website: https://lauradibenedetto.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauraldibenedetto/

Get a FREE Signed Copy of Laura's Book: https://www.thesixhabits.com/offers/Z34ZBxtd/checkout

Connect with Jordan:

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Door-to-Door to Hedge Fund Success with Justin Freishtat Sep 27, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Justin Freishtat, a hedge fund and private equity manager. Justin shares his journey from a challenging academic background to discovering his passion for sales through door-to-door experiences. He discusses the importance of personal branding, the transition to high-ticket sales, and offers valuable insights on investing and becoming an accredited investor. The conversation emphasizes the significance of resilience, continuous learning, and the power of building relationships in business.

Takeaways

Justin Freishtat is a hedge fund and private equity manager.
He struggled academically but found success in sales.
Door-to-door sales taught him valuable life lessons.
Sales provided a direct correlation between effort and reward.
Building a personal brand is crucial for success.
Investing in oneself is the best strategy for wealth creation.
Understanding cash flow is essential for investors.
Networking and leveraging relationships can accelerate success.
Resilience and persistence are key in sales and business.
Learning from mentors and experiences is invaluable.

Connect with Justin:

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com › in › justin-freishtat-68063579

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinfreishtat/

Connect with Jordan:

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Small Town to Real Estate Success with Shae Spitz Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Shae Spitz, a successful mompreneur and real estate agent. Shae shares her journey from a small town in Nebraska to becoming a top agent with eXp Realty. She discusses her early entrepreneurial spirit, lessons learned from sports, and the challenges she faced transitioning from nursing to real estate. Shae emphasizes the importance of taking risks, building community, and the value of mentorship in achieving success. She also provides valuable advice for aspiring agents and highlights the significance of personal growth and resilience in the face of setbacks.

Takeaways

Shae started her first business at 11 years old, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Sports taught Shae valuable lessons about perseverance and teamwork that apply to real estate.
Transitioning from nursing to real estate was driven by a desire for financial independence.
Taking risks is essential for growth and success in any business.
Shae first real estate deal was a significant risk that paid off, leading to her career in real estate.
Choosing Exp Realty was motivated by the desire for broader opportunities beyond her small town.
Building a community and networking is crucial for success in real estate.
Shae emphasizes the importance of not taking things personally in business.
Every setback can lead to a comeback if you learn from it.
Personal growth often comes from being uncomfortable and taking risks.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shae Spitz

01:51 Childhood and Early Entrepreneurship

06:28 Lessons from Sports and Competition

09:31 Transitioning from Nursing to Real Estate

13:29 The Journey into Real Estate and Renovations

17:06 Helping Others Through Real Estate

20:45 Taking Risks in Real Estate Investment

24:01 Lessons Learned from the First Flip

26:30 Transitioning to Real Estate Agent

28:55 Choosing eXp Realty: A New Path

33:11 Advice for Aspiring Agents and Flippers

39:50 Embracing Discomfort for Growth

Follow Shae on Instagram

Connect with Jordan:

Order a copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is now exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

What does that mean for our listeners?

It means you'll be getter more consistent content with better visuals state of the art post production.

What does that mean for our future guests?

It means we now not only have virtual podcast options but have an option to record in studio and get Hollywood level content to help elevate your business faster!

Here is more information about our amazing sponsor below:

Welcome to the future of post-audio production. Our state-of-the-art facility, strategically located in the Atlanta-metro area, is setting a new standard in sound design, mixing, and immersive audio experiences.

Designed by the world-renowned Wes Lachot, our studio features patented acoustic architecture that delivers unparalleled sonic precision. With two Dolby Atmos-enabled control rooms and a spacious live room accommodating up to 20 instruments in a single session, we provide the ultimate environment for music and film professionals.

Situated in the heart of New Hollywood in Atlanta, we are just minutes from the country’s largest film production studios—offering seamless integration for filmmakers, content creators, and musicians. Our commitment to a drug- and alcohol-free environment fosters a professional, focused atmosphere, ensuring every project reaches its full potential.

Beyond cutting-edge technology and expert craftsmanship, we offer highly competitive pricing and a business-friendly climate, making us the premier choice for audio post-production in the region.

Experience a new era of sound. Welcome to Atlanta’s leading post-audio facility.

Want to get involved in CityGates misson?

Donate to the Go Fund me HERE

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Grief to Storytelling Greatness with Bill Dolan Jun 26, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Bill Dolan, a television director and entrepreneur. Bill shares his journey from a challenging childhood marked by grief and anger to discovering his passion for directing and eventually starting his own media company. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, resilience, and living a life of purpose. Bill offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring creatives, highlighting the significance of relationships and the impact one can have on others.

Takeaways

Bill's early life was shaped by grief and anger due to his father's illness.

Music played a crucial role in Bill's self-discovery during his rebellious teenage years.

Mentorship was pivotal in Bill's journey, providing him with confidence and direction.

Bill's unique approach to networking involved bringing cookies to the television studio.

He became one of the youngest major market directors in the country after his internship.

Transitioning to entrepreneurship was a necessity for Bill as he sought financial stability.

Bill emphasizes the importance of purpose and impact in one's life and career.

He believes that every goal should be tied to a mission that serves a greater purpose.

Bill's near-death experience profoundly changed his perspective on life and purpose.

He encourages others to recognize the value of their lives and the impact they can have on others.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: Bill Dolan's Early Life

05:36 Finding Direction: The Role of Mentorship

09:46 From College to Career: The First Steps in Media

16:43 Building a Career: The Rise of Spirit Media

23:14 Facing Challenges: The Death of a Career

26:14 Lessons Learned: Purpose and Legacy

Work with Bill: https://www.spiritmedia.com/

Connect with Bill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billdolan/

Get Bill's Book: https://www.7drm.com/

Connect with Jordan:

Join Jordan's weekly Group Coaching Community Risk Free

Pre order a signed copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is now exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

What does that mean for our listeners?

It means you'll be getter more consistent content with better visuals state of the art post production.

What does that mean for our future guests?

It means we now not only have virtual podcast options but have an option to record in studio and get Hollywood level content to help elevate your business faster!

Here is more information about our amazing sponsor below:

Beyond cutting-edge technology and expert craftsmanship, we offer highly competitive pricing and a business-friendly climate, making us the premier choice for audio post-production in the region.

Experience a new era of sound. Welcome to Atlanta’s leading post-audio facility.

Want to get involved in CityGates misson?

Donate to the Go Fund me HERE

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Building a Home Studio: Tips from Junaid Ahmed Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode of the Blaze Your Own Trail podcast, host Jordan Mendoza interviews Junaid Ahmed, a technology enthusiast and home studio expert. Junaid shares his journey from growing up in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to becoming a successful podcaster and entrepreneur in the U.S. He discusses his early experiences with technology, the importance of customer service, and how he transitioned into web design and videography. Junaid emphasizes the value of problem-solving and the lessons learned throughout his career, culminating in the establishment of Home Studio Mastery, where he helps others create high-quality content. He also provides practical tips for content creation using existing resources.

Takeaways

Junaid's journey began in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia before moving to the U.S.
He developed a passion for technology and photography at a young age.
Customer experience is crucial in understanding client needs.
Problem-solving skills are essential in technology and entrepreneurship.
Freelancing allowed Junaid to build his own business.
Home Studio Mastery was born from Junaid's expertise in video production.
Quality content can be created with existing resources.
Lighting and audio are more important than expensive equipment.
Looking directly at the camera creates a connection with the audience.
Every experience contributes to personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Junaid Ahmed

01:43 Junaid's Early Life and Passion for Technology

09:02 Career Beginnings and Customer Experience

13:07 Transitioning to Freelance and Entrepreneurship

19:16 Building a Home Studio

24:25 Practical Tips for Content Creation

29:14 Connecting with Junaid and Final Thoughts

Connect with Junaid:

Website: https://homestudiomastery.com/

Listen to Junaid's Podcast: https://www.hacksandhobbies.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/superjunaid/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/superjunaid

Connect with Jordan:

Join Jordan's weekly Group Coaching Community Risk Free

Pre order a signed copy of Jordan's new book The Life-Changing Power of Adversity

The Blaze Your Own Trail Podcast is now exclusively sponsored by CityGate Studios

What does that mean for our listeners?

It means you'll be getter more consistent content with better visuals state of the art post production.

What does that mean for our future guests?

It means we now not only have virtual podcast options but have an option to record in studio and get Hollywood level content to help elevate your business faster!

Here is more information about our amazing sponsor below:

Beyond cutting-edge technology and expert craftsmanship, we offer highly competitive pricing and a business-friendly climate, making us the premier choice for audio post-production in the region.

Experience a new era of sound. Welcome to Atlanta’s leading post-audio facility.

Want to get involved in CityGates misson?

Donate to the Go Fund me HERE

Are you an Entrepreneur, Coach, Author, Podcaster or Creative?

Join here: https://trailblazerecosystem.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Creating Transformation Kitchen: A Beacon of Hope with Chason Forehand May 15, 2025

Show notes

Summary

In this episode, Chason Forehand shares his inspiring journey from a troubled childhood marked by abuse and addiction to becoming a beacon of hope for others through his nonprofit, Transformation Kitchen. He discusses the importance of resilience, faith, and the power of community in overcoming life's challenges. Chason emphasizes the need for compassion and support for those facing hardships, and how his organization aims to provide resources and opportunities for individuals in need.

Takeaways

Chason's journey reflects the power of resilience and faith.
Overcoming addiction requires support and a willingness to change.
Transformation Kitchen aims to address food insecurity and provide hope.
Community involvement is crucial for creating lasting change.
Chason's experiences highlight the importance of helping others.
The journey of recovery is ongoing and requires continuous effort.
Faith plays a significant role in Chason's life and recovery.
Empowering individuals can lead to broader community impact.
Chason's story serves as a reminder that it's never too late to change.
Transformation Kitchen is a model for addressing social issues through compassion.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chase On Forehand

03:16 Chase's Early Life and Struggles

10:21 Turning Point: Overcoming Addiction

15:16 The Journey of Recovery and Growth

21:38 Passion for Helping Others

25:31 Transformation Kitchen: A Nonprofit Initiative

Connect with Chason:

Website

Connect with Jordan: