Libsyn Directory

#262: AJ Vaden — The Secrets to Becoming Wealthy and Well-Known

Release Date: 08/11/2025

#267: A Call for Peace: Choosing Love in a Divided World

MIKE'D UP!

In this solo episode, Mike shifts from his planned recap of the year to address a day that weighs heavily on all our hearts—September 11th. In the wake of tragedy and violence, including the deaths of Charlie Kirk and Iryna Zarutska, Mike reflects on the importance of kindness, empathy, and restoring humanity in our daily lives. This episode is not about politics—it’s about people. Mike explores the urgent need for curiosity, respect, and love in a world that often feels divided by hatred, anger, and polarization. He shares his personal commitment to practicing gratitude, showing...

#266: Dr. Cynthia Libert, MD — Re-Think Aging: Finding Holistic Health, Longevity & Purpose

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In this powerful episode, takes you behind the scenes of your own biology, uncovering how sex hormones—estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA—are the silent directors of brain health, mood, memory, energy, and even sleep. When these messengers drift out of balance, the ripple effects can feel overwhelming: brain fog clouds your thoughts, irritability takes the spotlight, sleepless nights drag on, and your natural spark begins to dim. But here, the story doesn’t end—it turns into a comeback. With clarity and compassion, Dr. Cindy delivers practical, science-backed...

#265: Tim Rexius — From Rock Bottom to Building an Empire & Leaving a Lasting Legacy

MIKE'D UP!

In this electrifying episode, Mike dives deep into the raw and unfiltered journey of a man who built businesses in fitness, nutrition, consulting, and even … all without outside investors. From sleeping in his car for six months just to keep a dream alive, to opening multiple retail stores, , and launching Tim’s story is one of resilience, grit, and relentless self-belief. Along the way, you’ll discover the pivotal role of real human connection — the kind that’s built face-to-face, one handshake at a time. This isn’t only about business hustle. It’s about legacy. Tim...

#264: Angie Wisdom — The Non-Negotiable You: The Key to Lasting Success

MIKE'D UP!

What happens when you decide to take control of your thoughts and rewrite your own story? In this episode, Mike sits down with —bestselling author of , master certified coach, and Fortune 500 keynote speaker—for a conversation that will change the way you think about success and fulfillment. From her leap out of finance into coaching, to the daily non-negotiables that keep her grounded, Angie reveals the pivotal moments and practical tools that shaped her journey. She shares how to silence imposter syndrome, lean into self-belief, and align your actions with your deepest values. Along the...

#263: Darren Crosby — Surviving the Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster

MIKE'D UP!

He’s been to the top… and hit rock bottom. But quitting? Never an option. In this inspiring episode, Mike spotlights Darren Crosby, an entrepreneur whose story is a case study in the power of resilience. From his teenage start in business to navigating the cutthroat restaurant industry, Darren’s career has been a rollercoaster ride through mortgages, franchising, and the unexpected smash-hit success of a golf cart company. But the real drama? Surviving the pandemic’s crushing blow—personal and business bankruptcy—only to rise from the ashes with a sharper vision and a mission to...

#262: AJ Vaden — The Secrets to Becoming Wealthy and Well-Known

MIKE'D UP!

What do Amazon, The Rock, and personal branding have in common? More than you might think. This week, Mike welcomes AJ Vaden—CEO of , co-author of , and a trailblazing entrepreneur—to explore the secrets behind building a powerful personal brand. This dynamic conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your influence and success. From art major to advertising executive, AJ takes us on her unconventional journey into the world of business, sharing how she launched her first company at 22 and why reputation is your most valuable asset. Learn how a single relationship with...

#261: Rebecca Shaddix — Time Billionaire Hacks to Reclaim Your Day

MIKE'D UP!

What happens when you stop measuring productivity by how fast you reply to emails and start focusing on what actually moves the needle? In this eye-opening episode, Mike is joined by tech-savvy marketing powerhouse, podcaster, and Forbes contributor, , who’s here to blow up everything you thought you knew about getting stuff done. Together, they tear into productivity by breaking down the art of reclaiming your time (yes, even those micro in-between moments), and explore how to stay sharp in a world obsessed with constant motion. But that’s only the beginning. From building marketing...

#260: Andrew Matthews — Choosing Happiness in Hard Times

MIKE'D UP!

He turned a pencil into a purpose. Now, his story might truly change yours. When bestselling author and illustrator sits down with Mike, it’s more than a conversation, it’s an emotional rollercoaster filled with wisdom, heart, and the kind of life lessons they don’t teach in school. Kicking off with a soul-stirring account of his stepson Michael’s devastating car accident — and the miracle that followed — Andrew opens up about the power of acceptance, the science of gratitude, and how choosing joy (yes, it’s a choice!) can rewire your brain. With 35 years of inspiring millions...

#259: Dalton Locke — Entrepreneurship, AI, and the Power of Kratom

MIKE'D UP!

This week, we step into the high-stakes world of bold ideas and billion-dollar dreams as Mike welcomes , the unstoppable entrepreneur behind and In this high-paced episode, Dalton reveals the secrets behind building a multi-million-dollar empire, fueled by passion, perseverance…and a powerful plant called Kratom. This isn't only a story of success: it's a masterclass in harnessing AI without losing your human edge. Discover how PonoAI is rewriting the rules of entrepreneurship, empowering business leaders to make smarter decisions (faster) without falling into the automation trap....

#258: Gary Daly — Built By Lessons: Turn YOUR Challenges into Triumphs

MIKE'D UP!

This week, Mike welcomes Gary Daly, a sales pro, investor, lifelong learner, and author of . Gary shares his journey from facing challenges in Ireland and Australia to discovering personal development through Tony Robbins and how that experience shaped his career in sales across multiple continents. Gary discusses the importance of investing in yourself, the impact of mentors, and the significance of setting and achieving ambitious goals. From his experiences with public speaking, pitches, and cold plunges with , Gary provides actionable insights and inspirational advice for anyone...

More Episodes

What do Amazon, The Rock, and personal branding have in common? More than you might think. This week, Mike welcomes AJ Vaden—CEO of Brand Builders Group, co-author of Wealthy and Well-Known, and a trailblazing entrepreneur—to explore the secrets behind building a powerful personal brand. This dynamic conversation is packed with actionable insights to elevate your influence and success.

From art major to advertising executive, AJ takes us on her unconventional journey into the world of business, sharing how she launched her first company at 22 and why reputation is your most valuable asset. Learn how a single relationship with Lewis Howes helped ignite a national brand, and why strong offline connections still matter in a digital-first world.

Packed with stories, strategy, and soul, AJ reveals her secret weapon for content creation, the trick to getting your family involved in your business (without losing your mind), and the one question you must ask if you want to grow: “Can you help me?”

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by trying to offer too much, this episode is your permission slip to narrow your focus and amplify your impact.

IN THIS EPISODE:

➡️ The Power of Reputation and Personal Branding

➡️ The Art of Business and Creativity

➡️ Avoiding the Pitfalls of Over-Diversification

➡️ The Importance of Offline Relationships

📘 BONUS TAKEAWAY:
AJ shares how building a sustainable digital content system, rooted in repurposing and intention, can save time, reduce overwhelm, and help you show up with clarity and confidence, without burning out.

🚀 PERFECT FOR:
Entrepreneurs, personal brand builders, content creators, and anyone feeling pulled in a million directions while trying to grow their business or career. Whether you’re starting out or ready to level up your visibility and revenue, AJ’s story and strategies will resonate with those craving clarity, authenticity, and a more focused path to success. If you're juggling business, family, and the pressure to be everywhere online — this one’s for you.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

The Influential Personal Brand Podcast

Wealthy and Well-Known: Build Your Personal Brand and Turn Your Reputation into Revenue

Connect with AJ:

Connect with Mike:

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