What Are You Made Of?

Latest Episodes:

Ari Taublieb: Navigating Challenges and Redefining Success in Malibu and Finance Dec 02, 2023

Show notes

In this captivating podcast episode, host Mike C-Roc is joined by Ari Taublieb, a dynamic 27-year-old financial advisor and podcast host. Ari, who manages over a hundred million dollars for his clients, is the vice president of Root Financial, one of the fastest-growing financial firms in the country.

Ari shares insights into his background, growing up in the unique environment of Malibu, California, surrounded by characters and celebrities. Raised in a family that made documentaries, Ari witnessed the risks of poor financial planning among the ultra-wealthy and developed a passion for becoming a financial advisor to help others avoid being taken advantage of.

The episode delves into Ari's journey, from working at a prestigious Beverly Hills firm to quitting his job during the pandemic to start the Early Retirement podcast. Despite initial challenges and minimal listenership, Ari's dedication paid off, with the podcast now boasting over 200,000 downloads. The discussion covers Ari's role as the "Excel whiz kid" and his commitment to transparency in his financial advising practice.

Mike C-Roc and Ari explore the essence of the podcast, focusing on the ingredients that shape guests into who they are. Ari reflects on the importance of optimizing life, emphasizing that hard work should lead to a life where individuals can do what they want, not just what they have to do.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Ari opens up about the challenges he faced in his soccer career, particularly the coach's bias against his size. This experience became a driving force for Ari, instilling a relentless determination to prove himself and highlighting the importance of mental strength.

Ari also shares anecdotes from his time in Malibu, revealing the eccentricities of some celebrities, such as bringing private chefs to work and claiming their nanny would deliver homework. The episode provides a glimpse into the unique lifestyle and challenges faced by those growing up in affluent communities.

The interview concludes with Ari discussing the most challenging moments in his life, from the disillusionment of unfair treatment in soccer to the bold decision to leave a promising job to pursue his passion. Ari's commitment to helping others achieve financial independence and live fulfilling lives shines through, making this episode an engaging and insightful exploration of his journey and the lessons learned along the way.

Website: https://www.rootfinancialpartners.com/

Social Media Links/Handles:

https://www.instagram.com/earlyretirementari/?hl=en

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aritaublieb/

https://earlyretirementpodcast.com/

Redesigning Midlife: Empowering Women with Lesley McShane Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to today's episode of The What Are You Made Of, and I'm thrilled to introduce our incredible guest, Lesley McShane. Before we dive into our conversation, I want to express my gratitude to all our listeners, both new and returning. Your support fuels our mission to bring you inspiring stories and insights, revealing the invisible journey to success.

Lesley McShane is a force in the realm of midlife health and wellness, a podcaster, writer, author, and ACSM-certified personal trainer. She is dedicated to empowering middle-aged women to prioritize fitness and nutrition, fostering a healthier and happier life. Lesley hosts the transformative podcast "Redesigning Midlife," where she and her guests explore the empowerment that comes with embracing midlife and realizing that it's never too late to feel amazing.

In this episode, Lesley shares her mission to help women discover that everything they need to create an epic and healthy second half of life already resides within them. We'll uncover the courage it takes to make significant life changes, the importance of self-discovery, and the beauty of embracing one's own narrative.

As we kick off the conversation, Lesley reflects on her journey, rooted in her career in public television and children's television. Her love for being both entertained and educated paved the way for a career in immersive museum theaters, contributing to museum media for over 25 years. However, as Lesley approached the age of 50, she felt a compelling need to tell her story rather than solely focus on others'.

Lesley candidly shares her experience of entering midlife, a time when many women reevaluate their paths. Facing imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs, she overcame these obstacles to start a blog, leading to the creation of her empowering podcast. With a background as a former national champion cyclist, Lesley emphasizes the importance of fitness and nutrition in shaping her best midlife.

The conversation takes an introspective turn as Mike C-Roc asks Lesley a pivotal question: "What are you made of?" Lesley's response resonates with courage, highlighting the fundamental strength required to take the first step toward change. The discussion unfolds, touching on the significance of courage in the face of uncertainty and the idea that failing forward is a crucial part of the journey.

Mike and Lesley delve into the concept of quitting, exploring how it's not necessarily a negative action but can be a strategic decision to reassess and redirect efforts. Lesley's insights shed light on the importance of learning from every situation, turning failures into valuable data for future success.

Throughout the episode, Lesley generously shares her personal journey, from growing up in Kentucky to her career in television and her decision to prioritize her own creativity and wellness in midlife. The episode serves as a beacon of inspiration for anyone navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with embracing change and living their best life.

Join us in this insightful and empowering conversation with Lesley McShane, where courage, resilience, and the pursuit of a fulfilling midlife take center stage. Welcome to the show, Lesley!

Website: www.lesleylmcshane.com

Social Media Links/Handles:

https://www.instagram.com/lesleylmcshane

Simplified Success: Unveiling the Secrets of Wealth with Mark J. Kohler Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

In this dynamic episode, host Mike C-Roc welcomes the highly respected Mark J. Kohler, founding and senior partner at KKOS Lawyers, renowned for his expertise in tax, legal wealth, estate, and asset protection planning. Although the discussion unfolds in a virtual setting, the insights shared by Mark are very real and impactful.

Mark J. Kohler is not your typical tax and legal expert. His unique approach involves simplifying complex concepts, making them accessible and enjoyable for everyone. As an author, speaker, and YouTube personality, Mark breaks down intricate topics, ensuring that his audience can grasp and embrace the information.

The conversation delves into the importance of simplicity in understanding and applying crucial financial principles. Mike and Mark discuss the common tendency for people to shut down when faced with complex terms or concepts. Mark's mission is to empower individuals by demystifying tax and legal matters, emphasizing that simplicity often leads to success.

Mike commends Mark for his ability to make seemingly complicated subjects straightforward, highlighting the value of embracing simplicity in business and life. Mark's mantra is clear: simplicity works, and success often lies in understanding the basics.

Mark J. Kohler shares his background, growing up on a farm, learning the value of hard work, and embracing entrepreneurship from an early age. He discusses his journey into accounting, acknowledging it as the lifeblood of small businesses. The conversation shifts to Mark's hands-on experience running a janitorial business, where he managed his own books and navigated the intricacies of tax returns.

The episode takes an unexpected turn as Mark reveals his connection to potato farming in Idaho. The host and guest share a lighthearted discussion about Mark's hands-on experience driving a 16-wheeler during potato harvest, connecting with the earth and the hardworking people contributing to America's food production.

Throughout the episode, Mark J. Kohler's authenticity shines through as he shares insights, anecdotes, and valuable lessons from his journey. Listeners are in for an engaging and informative ride as Mike C-Roc and Mark J. Kohler explore the intersection of simplicity, hard work, and success in the world of business and finance.

Website: markjkohler.com

https://www.facebook.com/markkohler

https://www.instagram.com/markjkohler

https://www.linkedin.com/in/markjkohler

https://twitter.com/markkohler

https://www.youtube.com/@MarkJKohler

TikTok: @markjkohler

Land Geek Unveiled: The Art of Raw Land Investment with Mark Podolsky Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

This podcast episode features the dynamic conversation between host Mike C-Roc and the guest Mark Podolsky, also known as the "Land Geek." Mark is the owner of Frontier Properties, a prominent land investment company specializing in buying and selling raw undeveloped land within the United States.

In this engaging episode, Mike explores Mark's unique approach to land investment, a field often overlooked compared to traditional real estate ventures. Mark shares his journey from being a dissatisfied investment banker to becoming a successful full-time land investor, completing over 6,000 transactions and counting.

Mike delves into the specifics of Mark's methodology, shedding light on the process of acquiring raw land at a significant discount. Mark explains how he identifies potential deals by targeting financially distressed property owners who may be willing to part with their land for a fraction of its market value.

Mark breaks down the steps of his investment strategy, from sending out offers to due diligence and acquiring the land. He emphasizes the simplicity of the process and the substantial returns it can yield with the right approach.

The conversation also touches on Mark's personal philosophy, including his perspective on patience, continuous improvement, and maintaining a balance between setting high goals and having a long-term perspective. Mark shares insights into his daily practices, such as meditation and breathwork, and how they contribute to his success and overall well-being.

As the episode unfolds, listeners gain valuable insights into the world of land investment, Mark's journey, and the mindset that has propelled him to become a respected authority in his field. Whether you're a seasoned investor or someone curious about unconventional investment strategies, this podcast episode with Mark Podolsky offers a wealth of information and inspiration.

Website: https://www.thelandgeek.com/

Social Media Links/Handles:

https://www.facebook.com/thelandgeek/

https://twitter.com/TheLandGeek

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSAd3a8mtGZ8i6senVIHrbw

The Influencer Maestro: Alessandro Bogliari's Rise to Marketing Royalty Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

Get ready for another incredible episode as Mike C-Roc welcomes a true influencer marketing guru to the show, Alessandro Bogliari, the founder of Influencer Marketing Factory. Based in the bustling New York City, Alessandro has made waves in the industry, earning features in Forbes, BBC, Wall Street Journal, and AdWeek.

In this episode, Mike and Alessandro dive deep into the world of influencer marketing, exploring Alessandro's journey from being an Italian immigrant with no connections to founding a thriving agency with 45 team members across the US and Europe. Alessandro shares insights into his personal and professional philosophy, emphasizing determination, proactivity, and a dynamic, non-traditional approach to work.

The conversation takes an engaging turn as they discuss the importance of having fun while working, especially in the influencer marketing realm. Alessandro sheds light on his early experiences with digital technology, his first startup at 18, and the lessons learned despite not making a single euro. Now, at 32, Alessandro's Influencer Marketing Factory stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit.

As the discussion unfolds, Mike explores Alessandro's Italian roots, touching on the cultural aspects of Italians being warm, welcoming, and passionate—traits that extend to their communication skills, as Alessandro confirms with a touch of humor.

The episode takes an educational turn as Alessandro details the inception of his influencer marketing journey during his master's degree in Copenhagen. He reveals his innovative approach, creating the world's first Instagram Money Calculator, and how it played a pivotal role in his O1 visa application to enter the US.

The duo delves into the evolution of influencer marketing over the years, dissecting the shift from focusing solely on followers to a more comprehensive analysis involving engagement rates, demographics, and historical performance. Alessandro explains the transformation of influencer marketing into a serious, data-driven field, highlighting the agency's role in thoroughly vetting influencers.

Listeners gain valuable insights into how Influencer Marketing Factory operates, with Alessandro sharing that 90% of their business comes from brands seeking their services. He demystifies the process, from identifying the right influencers to managing campaigns, providing a one-stop solution for brands looking to navigate the influencer marketing landscape.

The episode concludes with a discussion of the changing dynamics of influencer pricing and the increasing reliance on paid media to boost organic content. Alessandro leaves the audience with a final nugget of wisdom, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving world of influencer marketing.

Tune in to this episode for an enlightening conversation on mastering the influencer game with Alessandro Bogliari.

Website: https://theinfluencermarketingfactory.com/

Social Media Handles:

https://www.instagram.com/alexeidos/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessandrobogliari/

Mastering Financial Growth: Unveils Strategies for Scaling in Real Estate and Business with Brian Luebben Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of The What Are You Made of, join host Mike C-Roc as he sits down with the incredible Brian Luebben, a seasoned entrepreneur who successfully transitioned from a high-powered corporate career to a life of worldwide freedom and passionate income. Mike and Brian dive deep into Brian's remarkable journey, exploring the highs, lows, and unexpected turns that led him to where he is today.

Brian, a former top sales professional in a Fortune 500 company, shares his pivotal moment of realization that life held more than the confines of suits and ties. With a burning desire for financial freedom, he strategically blended real estate investing and podcasting, crafting a unique path that allowed him to leave his six-figure job in 2022 and embark on a globe-trotting adventure.

Discover the behind-the-scenes of Brian's life as he discusses the challenges he faced, including the unexpected twists of COVID-19, leaving behind substantial vested shares, and breaking free from golden handcuffs. Learn how Brian not only conquered these obstacles but turned them into stepping stones toward his ultimate goal of helping others achieve financial freedom.

As Brian unveils his concept of "passionate income," a fusion of passive income and income generated while enjoying life, listeners gain valuable insights into creating a lifestyle they love. From the importance of building a foundation before pursuing a passion to the realities of passive income, Brian shares the unfiltered truth about his journey and the principles that guide his mission to impact one million lives by 2025.

Discover the power of mentorship, the significance of accountability systems, and the value of surrounding yourself with a tribe of individuals who understand your journey. Brian also shares exciting details about their upcoming live event in Cabo, promising an immersive experience for those seeking to elevate their financial and business ventures.

Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable advice that will leave you motivated to chase your dreams, redefine success, and, most importantly, discover what you're truly made of. Don't miss this episode as Brian lays bare the blueprint for building a life you don't need a vacation from.

Website: https://brianluebben.com/

Social Media Links and Handles:

https://quityourjob.co/

https://www.instagram.com/brianluebben/?hl=en

https://passivetopassionate.com/

Forgiveness and Transformation: Dr. Amanda Hanson's Journey of Reconnection Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

In this powerful podcast episode, host Mike C-Roc welcomes the inspiring Dr. Amanda Hanson to the show. The episode begins with Mike sharing his unique approach to connecting with people on Instagram, highlighting the intentionality and commitment that set him apart. He introduces Dr. Amanda, a renowned psychologist who has crafted a groundbreaking approach to healing emotional traumas using a blend of traditional psychology and ancient holistic methods.

Dr. Amanda, a mother of four and a 27-year-married influencer, shares her journey of connecting with Mike through his Instagram outreach during the lockdown. As a guest, she brings her profound insights and wisdom to the conversation, revealing her one-of-a-kind method to help women heal and break free from destructive patterns.

The episode delves into Dr. Amanda's story, exploring her childhood experiences of abandonment and the emotional impact of her father walking out. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Dr. Amanda recounts the profound healing experience of reconnecting with her estranged father for five days. Listeners witness her conscious choice to forgive and understand, leading to a transformative healing process.

The conversation shifts to Dr. Amanda's work and her approach to helping women tap into ancient wisdom within themselves. She emphasizes the importance of trusting intuition and encourages women to break free from societal expectations. The episode explores the delicate balance between standing out authentically and seeking attention in the wrong ways, as Dr. Amanda shares her perspective on posing for the patriarchy.

Mike and Dr. Amanda touch on the intersection of science and spirituality in her work, highlighting the limitations of traditional approaches. They discuss the prevalence of antidepressant medications and Dr. Amanda's commitment to guiding women on a journey of primal healing without relying on pharmaceuticals.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Amanda's passion for empowering women and reconnecting them with their innate wisdom shines through. Her unique blend of psychology, spirituality, and ancient wisdom offers listeners a fresh perspective on healing and self-discovery. Join Mike and Dr. Amanda as they explore the depths of the human experience, from personal trauma to transformative healing.

Website: https://www.amandahanson.com/

Social Media Links/Handles:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2660456010896319

https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifemuse

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=midlife+muse

Imagine Financial Security: Building Legacies with Kevin Lao Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

In this inspiring episode, host Mike C-Roc welcomes Kevin Lao, the owner of Imagine Financial Security, a retirement-focused financial planning firm based in Florida. Kevin, also the host of The Planning for Retirement Podcast, shares his journey from growing up just outside Washington, D.C., to building his own successful business in Northeast Florida.

Mike dives into Kevin's background, exploring his unique family dynamics, with a blend of Asian and European heritage, and how those diverse influences shaped Kevin's entrepreneurial spirit. As the owner of Imagine Financial Security, Kevin specializes in tax planning, retirement planning, investment management, and insurance, driven by a mission to make a multi-generational impact on his clients' lives.

The episode delves into the pivotal moments that led Kevin to start his own firm during the challenging times of the 2020 pandemic. Kevin reflects on the corporate bureaucracy that fueled his decision, emphasizing the importance of building something impactful and fulfilling. Listeners will be captivated by Kevin's journey, from the emotional revelation during a movie night to the unexpected news of impending twins just days after resigning from his previous job.

Join Mike and Kevin as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the importance of staying true to one's mission, and the power of taking bold action to chase dreams and build legacies. Whether you're interested in financial planning or seeking inspiration to pursue your own path, this episode offers valuable insights and real-life experiences.

Website: https://imaginefinancialsecurity.com/

Social Media Links/Handles:

https://www.instagram.com/imaginefinancialsecurity/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-lao-cfp%C2%AE-ricp%C2%AE-4181a29/

Strategies of the Ultra-Wealthy: A Conversation with Dave Wolcott Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

In this enlightening episode, join our host, Mike C-Roc, in a captivating conversation with the remarkable Dave Wolcott. A former Marine Corps officer turned entrepreneur, Dave is the author of the groundbreaking "Holistic Wealth Strategy" and the esteemed host of the top-rated podcast, "Wealth Strategy Secrets of the Ultra-Wealthy."

The episode kicks-off with a warm welcome as Dave shares insights into his holistic approach to building wealth and leading an extraordinary life. The duo reflects on their connection through mutual networks and the power of collaboration in reaching new heights.

Dave opens up about his journey from the structured military world to the dynamic tech industry, and eventually into entrepreneurship. With a focus on calculated risks and adaptability, he shares the pivotal moments that shaped his mindset and led to the creation of the Holistic Wealth Strategy.

Listeners are treated to a glimpse into Dave's diverse experiences, from serving in the Marines during pivotal moments in history to navigating the corporate landscape. The conversation delves into the transformative power of mindset development and the role it plays in achieving success both personally and professionally.

A fascinating turn in the episode takes us through Dave's investment journey, exploring unconventional paths beyond traditional stock market approaches. He unveils the five-phased Holistic Wealth Strategy, providing a blueprint for individuals to build lasting wealth. The phases include investing in oneself, boosting financial IQ, prioritizing physical well-being, growing relationship capital, and making strategic, diversified investments.

As the discussion unfolds, Dave shares the importance of biohacking, longevity strategies, and the profound impact of strategic relationships on the road to holistic wealth. The duo explores the intersection of health and wealth, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that goes beyond financial gains.

The episode concludes with actionable takeaways for listeners. Dave encourages everyone to start with the foundational phase—Investing in Yourself—and provides insights into the transformative power of mindset development and continuous learning.

Tune in to this episode for a masterclass in holistic wealth-building, filled with valuable lessons, inspiring anecdotes, and a roadmap to unlocking your full potential. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur seasoned professional, or simply someone eager to elevate every aspect of your life, Dave Wolcott's wisdom is sure to leave a lasting impact. Don't miss out on this insightful and empowering conversation! 🚀💡

Website: www.pantheoninvest.com

Social Media Links/Handles:

https://www.facebook.com/PantheonInvest/

https://www.instagram.com/pantheoninvest

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-wolcott-863306/ https://www.youtube.com/@pantheoninvest6134

From Corporate Boundaries to Unbounded Success with Yegi Saryan Nov 30, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to another empowering episode of The What Are You Made Of, where we bring you inspiring stories and valuable insights to fuel your journey towards an unstoppable and happy life. I'm your host, Mike C-Roc, and today we have an incredible guest, Yegi Saryan, the founder and CEO of https://yegibeauty.com/ and the host of The Yegi Project Podcast.

In this episode, Yegi shares her journey of entrepreneurship and how she defied expectations by starting her own business after being considered too young for a promotion in the corporate world. Her mission aligns with ours – spreading a badass, unstoppable message with a focus on happiness. Yegi emphasizes the importance of living a balanced, happy life in both the business and personal realms.

As a successful entrepreneur in the beauty industry, Yegi delves into the early days of her business, overcoming challenges, and building a clientele through a mix of word-of-mouth and strategic social media efforts. From starting a salon to specializing in eyelash extensions, Yegi's story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, leading her to a mission that goes beyond financial success.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Yegi discusses her initial foray into self-help through relationship books, eventually transitioning into a pursuit of success, wealth, and a millionaire mindset. She shares valuable insights into understanding the dynamics between men and women, fostering healthy relationships, and navigating challenges with resilience.

As the podcast unfolds, Yegi provides a glimpse into the evolution of her business during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the strategic decision to shift focus, close physical locations, and pivot towards e-commerce and education. Her wisdom extends beyond the business realm, touching on the importance of intuition, adaptability, and empathy in both personal and professional relationships.

Join us in this engaging episode as Yegi opens up about her journey, shares life lessons, and offers actionable advice for anyone seeking success, happiness, and an unstoppable mindset. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a self-help enthusiast, or someone navigating relationships, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom to help you thrive in every aspect of your life. Tune in and let's embark on this empowering journey together!

Website: https://theyegiproject.com/

Social Media Handles:

https://www.instagram.com/theyegiproject

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-yegi-project/

https://www.facebook.com/theyegiproject

https://www.tiktok.com/@theyegiproject

https://www.youtube.com/@theyegiproject

Email: info@theyegiproject.com