The Matthews Mentality Podcast

Latest Episodes:

E97: Forrest Griffin | The Most Important Fight in UFC History… Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

In this engaging episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, host Kyle Matthews sits down with UFC Hall of Famer and former Light Heavyweight Champion Forrest Griffin. They discuss Griffin's storied career, including his time on the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, his legendary fight against Stephan Bonnar, and his championship victory over Rampage Jackson. Griffin shares insights into his transition from fighter to Vice President of Athlete Development at the UFC Performance Institute, where he now helps shape the next generation of fighters. This candid conversation also touches on the challenges of making weight, dealing with injuries, and the psychological aspects of fighting, providing a comprehensive look at the life of a professional MMA fighter.

00:00 Pushing Limits and Greed

00:45 Introducing UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin

00:57 Inside the UFC Performance Institute

01:27 Forrest Griffin's Role in Athlete Development

02:38 Expanding UFC's Global Reach

05:06 Challenges and Strategies in Training

10:40 Forrest Griffin's Early Life and Career

18:40 Transition from Football to Fighting

34:12 Joining the Ultimate Fighter

40:21 The Legendary Fight with Stephan Bonner

41:36 Randy Couture and the Bonner Fight

41:57 Mental Toughness in the Ring

43:04 The Keith Judian Fight and Lessons Learned

45:06 Winning the UFC Contract

47:56 Becoming a UFC Champion

55:06 The Challenges of Defending the Title

01:01:52 The Evolution of MMA and Training

01:07:56 Life After Fighting

01:10:54 Forrest Griffin's Legacy and Reflections

E96: Piotr Tomasik of TensorWave | Why AI Needs Water to Survive Feb 03, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Matthews Mentality podcast, host Kyle Matthews interviews Piotr Tomasik, the co-founder and COO of TensorWave. Piotr shares the journey of founding TensorWave, an AI cloud and compute company based in Las Vegas, which aims to provide high-performance cloud infrastructure for modern AI workloads. The discussion covers Piotr’s background, his previous ventures, and the importance of building a robust tech community in Las Vegas. The conversation delves into the technical aspects of AI infrastructure, the impact of AI on various industries, and the challenges and opportunities present in the AI computing sphere. Piotr also reflects on the lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey and offers insights into the dynamics of fundraising and building successful startups.

00:00 Introduction to AI Infrastructure Challenges

00:45 Meet Piotr Tomasik: AI Innovator

02:15 Building a Tech Community in Las Vegas

04:51 The Impact of California's Tax Policies on Tech

06:23 The Role and Vision of Tensor Wave

13:15 Future of AI: Predictions and Implications

16:47 Piotr's Journey: From Bay Area to Las Vegas

20:31 Early Career and Entrepreneurial Beginnings

25:51 Lessons from Founding Influential

33:37 The Relief of Financial Success

33:55 The Role of Family Support

35:06 Navigating an Acquisition

36:36 The Intensity of Startup Life

37:30 The Drive Behind Entrepreneurship

40:13 The Evolution of TensorWave

43:34 The Future of AI and Power

53:43 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

55:07 Reflecting on the Tech Industry

56:23 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

E95: Owen Hanson | From USC Football Teammate to Federal Prison Jan 27, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Matthews Mentality, join host Kyle Matthews as he reconnects with his former USC teammate, Owen Hanson. Their conversation takes a deep dive into Owen's incredible life story that spans his days as a football player, becoming a notorious international bookie, and later a drug lord, to spending nearly a decade in federal prison. Discussing his motivations, the adrenaline rush, and the void he tried to fill with illegal activities, Owen shares pivotal moments including laundering money, his arrest, and subsequent quest for redemption. Now, focusing on rebuilding his life, Owen details his journey of creating a successful protein ice cream brand and his dedication to speaking with young people about the real consequences of his past actions. This candid and gripping interview is a testament to the capacity for change and second chances.

00:00 Introduction and Early Life

01:03 College Years and Athletic Pursuits

01:54 Transition to Underground Operations

02:28 Life in Federal Prison and Redemption

05:37 Reflecting on Childhood and Family

12:01 The Rush of Adrenaline and Illegal Activities

31:43 The Rush of Camaraderie and Adrenaline

32:18 Transition to Real Estate and Economic Downturn

32:58 Becoming a Bookie: The Start of a New Venture

33:50 The Rise of Online Sports Betting

34:34 Indictment and Legal Troubles

34:55 From Bookie to Cartel Connections

35:53 International Expansion and Cartel Involvement

38:31 The Cartel's Trust and High-Stakes Operations

45:45 The Australian Cocaine Operation

55:45 Reflections on Power and Happiness

01:00:13 Prison Realizations and True Friendships

01:03:39 Money Laundering Through Gambling

01:05:13 The Big Lie and the Lost Money

01:06:18 Confrontation and Desperation

01:08:08 The Cartel's Pressure and Ingenious Solutions

01:12:38 The Arrest and Life in Prison

01:15:11 The Road to Redemption

01:21:34 Building a New Life with Ice Protein

01:29:31 Reflections and Lessons Learned

E94: Antoine Tessier | Why the Ultra Rich Can't Test Drive Ferraris Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, Kyle Matthews interviews Antoine Tessier, CEO of DuPont Registry Group. They dive deep into Antoine's career journey from serving as the Chief Technology Officer at LVMH to leading the world's premier luxury automotive ecosystem. Antoine shares key lessons from his experience in luxury retail, the transformation of DuPont Registry into a seamless digital marketplace, and insights into the high-end automotive industry. They also discuss the future of luxury car markets and the importance of building genuine relationships with clients. Filled with anecdotes, professional wisdom, and a touch of humor, this episode offers valuable inspiration for aspiring leaders and luxury market enthusiasts alike.

00:00 Building Relationships in Luxury Commerce

00:30 Introducing Antoine Tessier: CEO of DuPont Registry Group

00:40 The Legacy and Vision of DuPont Registry Group

04:07 Antoine's Journey from France to the US

07:28 Career at Louis Vuitton and LVMH

17:01 Transition to CEO of DuPont Registry Group

19:50 Challenges and Insights as a CEO

22:03 Luxury Market Trends and Client Relationships

33:01 Personal Reflections and Ambitions

34:52 Curiosity and Moving to the US

35:17 First Impressions of America

36:05 Adjusting to Life in America

37:47 The Importance of Data in Business

39:10 Challenges and Successes as a CEO

43:29 Crazy Stories in the Luxury Car Industry

54:33 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

58:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections

E93: Dr. Patrick Leddin | Mastering Disruption and Transforming Leadership Jan 13, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Kyle Matthews speaks with Dr. Patrick Leddin, a distinguished leader spanning military service, Fortune 500 consulting, entrepreneurship, academia, and bestselling authorship. Dr. Leddin, who co-authored 'Disrupt Everything and Win' with James Patterson, shares insights on adapting to disruption, essentials of effective leadership, and personal transformation. The conversation covers Dr. Leddin's experiences as an Army Ranger, the importance of mindsets and behaviors in leadership, practical advice on navigating artificial intelligence, and the critical nature of self-awareness and resilience in facing change.

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Essentials

01:19 Meet Dr. Patrick Leddin

02:57 Understanding Resistance to Change

04:44 The Power of Positive Disruption

10:45 James Patterson's Influence

19:07 Military Lessons in Leadership

38:32 Understanding Workplace Dynamics

38:45 Finding Your 'Why'

41:14 The Big Disruption: AI and the Future

41:58 Adapting to Technological Changes

43:00 The Five Roles in the Face of Change

48:20 Making Tough Leadership Decisions

53:21 Personal Stories of Resilience

57:53 Writing with James Patterson

01:06:07 Final Thoughts on Disruption and Success

E92: Sadie Lincoln | Why Fitness Is Failing Women and How Barre3 Changed the Game Jan 06, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Matthews Mentality podcast, host Kyle Matthews interviews Sadie Lincoln, co-founder and CEO of Barre3, a global fitness and wellness company. Sadie shares her transformative journey from working at 24 Hour Fitness to creating a revolutionary fitness movement inspired by her upbringing in a community of strong women. Key topics include Barre3's mindful approach to fitness, the impact of the 2008 financial crisis on the launch of her first studio, the challenges and resilience shown during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the role of intuition and community in her business philosophy. Tune in to hear about Sadie's personal and professional growth and her vision for the future of fitness.

00:00 Aha Moment: Rethinking Fitness

00:33 Introducing Sadie Lincoln: A Fitness Pioneer

01:24 Welcome to Nashville: A Warm Reception

02:58 Barre3: Revolutionizing Fitness

04:15 The Birth of Barre3: Overcoming Challenges

08:03 Scaling Success: From One Studio to Many

11:22 A Unique Upbringing: Sadie's Childhood

16:13 Education and Early Career: Finding Fitness

19:52 The Seed of Barre3: Personal Struggles and Realizations

25:38 Mind, Body, Spirit: The North Star

25:54 The Ballet Bar: A Tool for Modification

26:42 Balancing Motherhood and Business

27:56 Creating Play Lounge for Moms

28:53 The Importance of Connection

29:58 Intuition in Business Decisions

32:00 Challenges and Triumphs During COVID-19

36:45 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

39:50 Unexpected Business Moments

40:55 Global Expansion and Generosity

43:20 Advice for Young Professionals

47:58 Future Growth and Personal Motivation

49:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Find Sadie:

Twitter: https://x.com/barre3

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/barre3/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sadielincoln/?hl=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/barre3/?hl=en

Website: https://barre3.com/

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Find Kyle:

Twitter: https://x.com/kylematthewsceo

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-matthews-ceo/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kylematthewsceo?_t=ZT-90KKp52n5MN&_r=1

Website: https://www.matthews.com

Website: https://www.thematthewsmentalitypodcast.com

E91: Bianca D’Alessio | Turning Confidence Into Conviction in High-Stakes Real Estate Dec 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, host Kyle Matthews interviews Bianca D’Alessio, the founder and CEO of the Master's division and star of HBO's 'Selling The Hamptons'. Bianca shares her journey from earning $11,000 in her first year to becoming a top leader in modern real estate. She discusses the importance of self-improvement, confidence building, and adapting strategies that set her apart in one of the most competitive markets in the world. Bianca also touches on her experiences with reality TV, the psychological aspects of high-stakes negotiations, and her future vision for her company. For anyone interested in real estate or personal growth, Bianca's story offers valuable insights and inspiring lessons.

00:00 Starting Out in Real Estate: Overcoming Early Challenges

01:06 Introducing Bianca D’Alessio: A Real Estate Powerhouse

02:35 Discussing the New York Residential Market

09:59 The Journey to Confidence and Success

13:01 The Role of Women in Real Estate

18:16 Personal Stories and Lessons Learned

24:29 The Reality of Reality TV

31:09 Secrets Behind Luxury Real Estate

37:48 Understanding Real Estate Metrics

38:06 Staying Motivated Beyond Financial Success

39:52 Developing a Winning Mentality

41:26 Advice for Young Professionals

42:40 Misconceptions About Residential Agents

45:37 The Psychology of Real Estate Purchases

48:27 Building a Successful Real Estate Business

01:05:03 Work-Life Balance and Personal Growth

01:11:51 Final Thoughts and Personal Insights

Recorded at Theorist Studios in NYC

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Find Bianca:

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/biancadalessio/

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

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

Website: https://www.nestseekers.com/agent/bianca-dalessio/

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

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Find Kyle:

Twitter: https://x.com/kylematthewsceo

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-matthews-ceo/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kylematthewsceo?_t=ZT-90KKp52n5MN&_r=1

Website: https://www.matthews.com

Website: https://www.thematthewsmentalitypodcast.com

E90: Peter Borzak of Pine Tree | How to Build a Retail Empire That Wins in Any Market Cycle Dec 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, Kyle Matthews sits down with Peter Borzak, the Chairman, CEO, and co-founder of Pine Tree, a leading national retail real estate company. Peter shares insights from his nearly 30-year career in developing, acquiring, and operating retail assets, and the journey that shaped Pine Tree into a $3 billion portfolio company. The discussion includes Peter's career beginnings, his experience navigating the 2008 financial crisis, and tips on leadership, trust, and resilience in the real estate industry. Peter also delves into Pine Tree's strategic focus on necessity-based open-air shopping centers and their coast-to-coast presence in the United States.

00:00 Introduction to Peter Borzak and Pine Tree

01:49 Peter's Early Career and Real Estate Beginnings

04:26 Founding Pine Tree and Overcoming Challenges

07:15 Navigating the Real Estate Market and Scaling Pine Tree

11:23 The Impact of the Global Financial Crisis

17:20 Rebuilding and Future Outlook

38:21 Realizing the Importance of Effort Over Results

39:52 Balancing Business and Family Life

43:26 Coping with Stress and Maintaining Health

45:21 The Responsibilities and Challenges of Being a CEO

50:04 Motivations and Influences

57:15 The Importance of Listening and Learning

01:02:13 Pine Tree's Success and Future Plans

01:07:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

E89: Michael Kempner of MikeWorldWide | How to Build a Reputation People Trust Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, host Kyle Matthews sits down with Michael Kempner, the founder and CEO of Mike Worldwide, a leading global public relations firm. Michael discusses the significance of authenticity in communications, the impact of reputation on business success, and the evolution of the PR industry. He shares insights from his illustrious career, which includes working with high-profile clients and navigating crisis situations. With a focus on people's importance in an organization, Michael offers valuable advice on leadership, risk management, and staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with one of the most respected leaders in PR.

00:00 The Importance of Authenticity

00:47 Introducing Michael Kempner

02:34 About Mike Worldwide

05:13 Founding Mike Worldwide

07:56 Lessons in Leadership

09:55 The Evolution of PR

10:54 The Impact of AI

12:46 Early Challenges and Growth

26:16 Insights on Politics and Influence

33:30 Facing Client Losses and Business Anxiety

34:28 Learning to Control Worry and Focus

35:33 Building a PR Empire and Rebranding

36:15 The Buyout Experience and Its Aftermath

38:43 Motivation and Winning Mentality

40:44 Leadership and Handling Losses

44:24 Generational Changes in the Workplace

46:36 Professional Kindness and Respect

49:23 Dealing with Client Turnover

51:15 Crisis Management Stories

54:03 Advice on Reputation and Leadership

01:00:46 The Importance of Curiosity and Storytelling

01:02:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

E88: Carrie Stokes | Engineering a Path from Intern to the CEO Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

In this inspiring episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, Kyle Matthew sits down with Carrie Stokes, CEO and President of Barge Design Solutions. Carrie shares her journey of starting as an intern and rising to become the first woman to lead the company in its 70-year history. They discuss the importance of communication, self-advocacy, and staying flexible in one's career path. Carrie also reflects on the challenges and rewards of being an employee-owned firm, the significance of purpose-driven leadership, and the importance of making room for personal growth and self-care. This episode provides valuable insights into leadership, career development, and the impact of engineering on communities.

00:00 Finding Your Path in Engineering

01:07 Introducing Carrie Stokes: A Visionary Leader

02:11 Carrie's Journey at Barge Design Solutions

02:58 Advice for Young Professionals

04:50 The Importance of Communication and Advocacy

09:46 Barge Design Solutions: An Overview

10:34 Becoming the CEO: Emotions and Responsibilities

12:26 Leading with Purpose and Facing Challenges

19:54 Employee Ownership at Barge

21:39 Memorable Projects and Humorous Moments

25:01 The Importance of Design in Everyday Life

25:52 Finding Passion in Engineering