The Mark Drager Show

A side project I hosted from 2020 to early 2024, The We Do Hard Things Podcast (later rebranded as The Mark Drager Show following Glennon Doyle's launch of her podcast), explored the minds and stories of extraordinary entrepreneurs, creatives, and total badasses. Across 130+ episodes, I had the amazing opportunity to connect with remarkable people. Those who dared to bet on themselves and chase their dreams. Today, I can be found talking about strategic branding and marketing on the How To Sell More Podcast (available everywhere podcasts are found).

Derek Sivers: From Indie Platform to $22 Million Sale to Charity - The CD Baby Story 04/03/2024

Derek Sivers: From Indie Platform to $22 Million Sale to Charity - The CD Baby Story In today's episode, Mark engages in a riveting conversation with the incredible Derek Sivers, the founder of CD Baby, an entrepreneur, and a TED speaker known for his unconventional wisdom in the world of business and life. The dialogue kicks off with a thought-provoking discussion about the essence of genuine reactions versus prepared responses in interviews and podcasts. Derek shares his philosophy of life and its translation into his business ventures. His narratives revolve around the principle of challenging status quos and navigating through life with a zest for learning and understanding. Derek opens up about his experiences and the stories that have shaped his philosophies, offering listeners a deep dive into the mind of a true innovator and thought leader. Derek takes us on a journey through the creation and evolution of CD Baby, sharing how it became a beacon of hope and platform for independent musicians. The stories from CD Baby’s inception to its growth reveal not just a business strategy, but also Derek’s commitment to providing value to artists, thereby changing the landscape of the music industry. His insights into business, creativity, and personal development are nothing short of enlightening. Whether it's discussing the nuances of entrepreneurial strategy, or diving deep into the emotional and logical aspects of decision-making, Derek provides a fresh perspective that is sure to leave you pondering. Don't miss out on this episode full of valuable life lessons, business strategies, and the intriguing stories behind one of the music industry’s most impactful businesses. 👉 Subscribe to The Mark Drager Show for more inspiring talks and insights from remarkable individuals from various walks of life. 🚀 Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with your network! Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: * Spotify: * Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: The Importance of Prepared Responses: Derek Sivers emphasizes the value in preparing responses to questions in advance, suggesting that immediate reactions may not always reflect one’s true or best thoughts on a topic. This can be crucial in ensuring that communicated messages are thoughtful and impactful. The Perception of Present Tense on the Internet: Derek points out an interesting observation about the internet - when you communicate something in the present tense, it may be perceived as such even years later by readers or listeners. This highlights the importance of being mindful about how and what we communicate online. Value of Pre-Communication in Conversations: He acknowledges the merit in being sent questions before a conversation or interview. Even though his approach towards this has evolved, he recognizes that pre-communication can often lead to more thoughtful dialogue during the actual conversation. The Evolving Nature of Answers: Derek elucidates that one’s responses can evolve even in a short span of time. An initial answer might change or adapt upon further reflection, highlighting the dynamic nature of thought processes and the potential depth that can emerge from giving oneself time to think. The Fluidity and Evolution of Online Terminology: The conversation lightly touches upon how terms used on online platforms, like ‘tweet’, can become integrated into our vocabulary, and how there can be resistance or adaptation to changing these terms. This highlights a larger theme of how online platforms and their terminologies become embedded in our societal language and culture. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/29393233

Kris Carr: Beyond Survival, How She Triumphed Cancer Every Day 03/27/2024

Kris Carr: Beyond Survival, How She Triumphed Cancer Every Day In this conversation, Mark sits down with the incredible Kris Carr, a cancer survivor who has transformed her challenging journey into a wellspring of hope for countless others. Kris opens up about the emotional and psychological dimensions of living with a cancer diagnosis, emphasizing the pivotal role of mental management and staying grounded in the present. Her wisdom not only emanates from her personal experiences but also forms the foundation of her advocacy to inspire and support others navigating through similar life challenges. Kris Carr's candid discussion takes listeners through her personal philosophy of avoiding "future tripping" – a practice of not getting paralyzed by potential future scenarios. She speaks about the importance of not allowing oneself to be consumed by terrifying stories about what the future might hold, especially in the context of a challenging diagnosis. Kris's philosophy is not just a theoretical concept but a practical strategy that has been instrumental in her ongoing journey with cancer. This episode delves deeper, possibly exploring Kris’s daily life, her strategies for maintaining mental health, and how her diagnosis has impacted her perspective on life. Kris has managed to weave her experiences into a tapestry of inspiration, and through her stories, listeners might find relatable elements that could be applied in navigating through their challenges. Kris’s mental fortitude, her ability to stay present, and her proactive approach towards mental management are likely discussed further, providing listeners with actionable insights. Join us on The Mark Drager Show as we explore not just the challenges, but the triumphs, the strategies, and the unwavering spirit of individuals like Kris Carr who turn their adversities into pathways of hope and inspiration for others. Subscribe for more conversations that seek to delve into the human spirit, explore poignant stories, and provide a space where insights, struggles, and triumphs are shared. Your journey into the heart of impactful stories begins here. Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: * Spotify: * Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: Living in the Present: Kris Carr emphasizes the importance of staying present and not fixating on the potential future scenarios that can arise from living with cancer. She doesn’t allow herself to be consumed by the what-ifs and focuses on the now. Avoiding Negative Future Projections: Kris actively avoids "future tripping" or terrifying herself with potential future outcomes. She doesn't engage in creating scary narratives in her mind that could paralyze her with fear or anxiety. Embracing Mental Fortitude: A significant part of Kris’s journey involves mental management. She strongly advocates for maintaining mental fortitude and managing the emotional and psychological aspects that come with a diagnosis like cancer. Utilizing Personal Strategies: Kris shares that she doesn’t engage in activities or thoughts that don’t reside in her “genius zone”. She focuses on what she can do and does not burden herself with tasks or thoughts that are not beneficial to her mental and physical well-being. Not Letting Scary Stories Dictate Life: Kris doesn’t allow the scary stories of what might happen in the future dictate her life. She actively manages her mental space to avoid becoming paralyzed by fear or anxiety, ensuring that her mental health is preserved. Being Practical and Realistic: The dialogue may involve Kris and Mark discussing how to be practical and realistic when envisioning the future, especially when it comes to dealing with a long-term diagnosis like cancer. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/29393168

Jeff Allen: New York Comedy Stories with Veteran Comedian 03/22/2024

Jeff Allen: New York Comedy Stories with Veteran Comedian Welcome to a particularly special episode of The Mark Drage Show, where we explore the vibrant world of comedy with none other than Jeff Allen, a celebrated comedian known for his perceptive and universally relatable humor. Embarking on a journey from a 16-year-old intrigued by a comedy team at a club, to becoming a seasoned comedian, Jeff shares intricate details of his fascinating journey through the intricate, dynamic world of stand-up comedy. In this insightful episode, Jeff shares remarkable stories from his extensive career, including intriguing interactions with comedy legends like Jerry Seinfeld and Arsenio Hall. He opens up about the advice he received from Seinfeld, providing a rare glimpse into the camaraderie and mentorship within the comedy community. Jeff’s experiences, especially with Arsenio Hall, who helped him land his first paying gig, showcase the intricate networks and friendships that have supported his journey, offering listeners a backstage pass to the world of comedy. Through tales of laughter, challenges, and memories of sharing stages and moments with comedy giants, Jeff navigates through his comedic journey, providing a genuine and transparent look into his world. His narrative includes an exploration of the 80s comedy scene, reflecting on his path amidst peers like Ellen DeGeneres, Drew Carey, Tim Allen, and Norm Macdonald, and how the industry's evolution shaped his career. With his distinctive blend of humor and authenticity, Jeff reveals the highs and lows, and the moments that have profoundly shaped his career and comedic style. Join us on The Mark Drage Show as we traverse through Jeff Allen's illustrious career, exploring not only his personal journey but also gaining insights into the comedy world’s backstage and on-stage realities. Whether you're a devout fan of stand-up or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of the comedic world, this episode promises a blend of emotions, captivating narratives, and a generous sprinkle of Jeff's signature humor. Ensure to subscribe to The Mark Drage Show for more enlightening conversations with our incredible array of guests! Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: * Spotify: * Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: Discovering Passion Early: Jeff's early curiosity in comedy reveals the impactful role of exploring interests during youth, illustrating how early encounters with a passion can sculpt your career path subtly yet significantly. Embracing Courage to Start: Jeff’s move from observer to performer underscores the pivotal role of seizing opportunities, demonstrating that the initial, imperfect step often kickstarts the journey more than meticulous planning does. Confronting and Managing Stage Fright: Encountering and persevering through initial stage fright, Jeff illustrates that viewing these early jitters as temporary hurdles, not permanent barriers, fosters growth and mastery in live performances. Navigating Through Early Challenges: Jeff’s perseverance through initial setbacks speaks to the necessity of resilience in any career, highlighting that enduring through early trials without surrender often lays the foundation for eventual success. Preparation and Relatability: Learning from unprepared attempts, Jeff underscores the criticality of preparation and relatability, proving that well-constructed and resonant content is instrumental in forming genuine audience connections. Embracing Authenticity in Content: Jeff's resonance with audiences through authentic content demonstrates the power of genuine and personal experiences in crafting a unique and relatable comedic style. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/29393098

Geraldine Deruiter: How To Turn Your Passion Into A Job 03/14/2024

Rebecca Zung: Negotiate Like a Pro & Narcissism Gets Exposed 10/11/2023

Rebecca Zung: Negotiate Like a Pro & Narcissism Gets Exposed Welcome to another episode of The Mark Drager Show! Today, we're honored to host Rebecca Zung, a distinguished attorney ranked among the Top 1% in the nation. Dive into this illuminating conversation as Rebecca unravels the intricacies of negotiation, personal power, and the transformative moments that molded her illustrious career. Rebecca shares her insights into the art of negotiation, emphasizing the power of perception and the influence of personal beliefs on outcomes. She delves deep into the difference between authentic and counterfeit power, and how recognizing one's true value can reshape interactions and negotiations. Rebecca's journey has not been linear; from practicing law to a stint as a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley and back into law. Through it all, she learned the importance of self-awareness and the profound impact of body language and self-presentation. As we wrap up this insightful conversation, we reflect on the wisdom and insights shared by Rebecca Zung. This isn't just another podcast episode; it's a deep dive into the art of negotiation, the essence of personal power, and the pivotal moments that shape an outstanding career. Join us on this transformative journey and don't miss out on future enlightening discussions. Subscribe to The Mark Drager Show for more insightful dialogues. Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: * Spotify: * Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: Reprogram Your Mindset: Understand that people will perceive you based on how you present yourself. Confidence in negotiation stems from a solid self-perception. Know Your Value: Recognizing your worth is crucial. This knowledge anchors your position in any negotiation. Distinguish Authentic Power from Counterfeit Power: Understand the difference to navigate negotiations more effectively. Body Language Matters: Before words are even spoken, body language can communicate confidence and intent. Embrace Change and Opportunity: Rebecca's journey from law to financial advising and back to law highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and being adaptable. Seek Guidance: Hiring a business coach or mentor can provide valuable insights and direction in your professional journey. Control the Narrative: Remember that "people will think what you tell them to think." Be deliberate in how you present yourself and your story. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/28167431

Light Watkins: Living from a Carry-On, Insights into a Minimalist Lifestyle 10/04/2023

Light Watkins: Living from a Carry-On, Insights into a Minimalist Lifestyle Welcome to The Mark Drager Show, in today's episode we're joined by the renowned meditation expert, Light Watkins. Dive deep as Watkins shares his profound insights on inner peace, happiness, and personal growth. With his "inside-out" approach, he challenges traditional views, unveiling a fresh perspective on happiness. Watkins emphasizes the transformative power of practices such as meditation, gratitude, and leading a purposeful life. He addresses common misconceptions about happiness, urging listeners to chase genuine contentment over fleeting emotions. In a world often swayed by materialism, Watkins' insights on aligning personal values with one's life purpose are a breath of fresh air. Through personal anecdotes, Watkins sheds light on the significance of embracing one's inner call and making unconventional decisions. He believes that such moments, though seemingly drastic, pave the way for immense personal growth and understanding. As we wrap up this enlightening conversation, we reflect on the wisdom and insights shared by Light Watkins. This isn't merely a podcast episode; it's an exploration of mindfulness, inner harmony, and the quest for a meaningful life. Join us on this transformative journey for more such insightful dialogues. Subscribe to The Mark Drager Show for more such insightful dialogues. Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: * Spotify: * Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: Adopt an "inside-out" approach to happiness. Engage in practices like meditation, gratitude, random acts of kindness, service, and leading a purposeful life. Pursue genuine happiness, not the misconception that it's about always smiling or being overly passive. Seek a balanced approach: achieve meaningful goals while maintaining inner contentment. Understand the deep connection between personal values and life's purpose. Act upon long-held desires or plans; sometimes, drastic changes lead to personal growth. Don't be confined by societal norms; sometimes, the most enriching experiences come from unconventional decisions. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/28167395

Brad Holcman: Real-world TV Producer Reveals How Television Really Works 09/28/2023

Kyle Cease: Beyond the Jokes, Transformation from Comedian to Inspirational Speaker 09/14/2023

Kyle Cease: Beyond the Jokes, Transformation from Comedian to Inspirational Speaker In this enlightening episode of The Mark Drager Show, we journey through the captivating career of the multi-talented comedian, kylecease. We kick things off by delving into Kyle's early days in the film industry, discussing his breakout role in the iconic '90s movie, "10 Things I Hate About You." Learn how an untrained and spontaneous Kyle managed to shine and leave an indelible mark in the world of cinema. Kyle doesn't shy away from sharing the highs and lows of his journey. While he enjoyed early success with roles in films like "Not Another Teen Movie" and even landing a series of Burger King commercials, a turning point came when he decided to undergo formal acting training. The comedian also opens up about his robust stand-up career in his twenties, performing in countless colleges and headlining numerous shows. He wanted to get serious about his career so he hired an acting coach. However, what he initially perceived as an opportunity to refine his skills paradoxically led him away from his unique essence, making him question the true nature of early success and his purpose in life. Reflecting on his past experiences, Kyle highlights the pivotal lessons he learned about authenticity and the dangers of losing oneself in the advice of others. His personal epiphanies eventually led him to a transformative path, helping others with his "Evolving Out Loud" events filling auditoriums with thousands of people., where he harnesses his deep insights to inspire others. In his book "The Illusion of Money" he shows us that one of the biggest excuses we make is to not follow the exciting ideas and dreams that we have in life—and it’s costing us our life. Don't miss out on this captivating conversation with Kyle Cease – a unique exploration of the world of comedy, film, and the intricacies of personal growth. Subscribe now and stay tuned for more engaging discussions on The Mark Drager Show. Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: * Spotify: * Apple Podcasts: Key Advice from Kyle Cease: 1. Embrace Authentic Beginnings: Kyle's spontaneous audition for "10 Things I Hate About You" teaches us the power of being genuine and not overthinking. Sometimes, the best opportunities arise when we're ourselves. 2. Reassess Early Success: Just as Kyle reflected on his initial effortless roles, it's essential to understand that early success might not always define long-term growth. Keep evolving. 3. Training vs. Essence: While Kyle's acting training was meant to refine his skills, it unintentionally took away his unique essence. Always ensure that learning enhances, not dilutes, your authenticity. 4. Diversification is Growth: Kyle's venture from films to stand-up shows the importance of exploring diverse avenues. It not only enriches skills but also broadens horizons. 5. Guard Your Individuality: Kyle's experience with advice, even from a respected acting teacher, underscores the importance of filtering external advice and retaining your unique essence. 6. Life's Unexpected Routes: Kyle's journey from envisioning stadium-filled stand-up shows to transformational speaking is a testament to life's unpredictability. Stay adaptable. 7. Redefining Goals: As Kyle reflected on his past aspirations versus his current calling, we learn that it's okay for our goals to evolve. What matters is finding fulfillment and purpose in the journey. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/28029633

Casey King: The CRAZIEST Transformation You'll EVER See 600 lbs. Life 09/07/2023

Casey King: The CRAZIEST Transformation You'll EVER See 600 lbs. Life In this episode, we sit down with the inspirational Casey King. Casey's life was completely turned upside-down by his appearance on the TLC popular reality TV show, Family By The Ton, where viewers witnessed his raw struggles and triumphs. The show not only highlighted the magnitude of his weight loss journey but also shed light on the dynamics of family relationships, especially with his father. As we delve further into the conversation he candidly discusses the challenges of food addiction, anxiety, and depression and its effects on his relationships. We also cover his years of isolation and the emotional weight, dealing with his self-confidence and insecurities about body image, but also gaining motivation through people's compliments and validation. Join us as we uncover the layers of Casey's transformative journey, filled with introspection, revelations, and invaluable life lessons. Don't miss out on this profound conversation with Casey King - a testament to resilience, change, and the journey to self-understanding. Subscribe for more enlightening discussions! Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: Linkedin: TikTok: $alesLoop: Spotify: Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: 1. Embracing Authenticity: Understand and be true to yourself, ensuring your actions don't negatively impact those you care about. 2. The Power of Empathy: Advocating for a world with more empathy, humility, and grace to foster deeper understanding and connections among individuals. 3. Personal Growth and Perception: Recognize the evolution in personal growth and how external perceptions might lag behind one's current state of self. 4. Recognizing Common Human Experiences: Acknowledge that many emotional and psychological experiences are universal, even if they often go unnoticed. 5. Challenges of Rapid Personal Transformation: Rapid personal changes can create a gap in understanding among close acquaintances and family members. 6. Valuing Commonality in Experiences: Every individual undergoes experiences that, while personal, are often shared feelings or situations in the broader human experience. 7. Navigating Personal Change with Loved Ones: Personal transformations can challenge familial perceptions, necessitating patience and communication to bridge understanding gaps. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27895737

Lesley Paterson: Oscar Winner Reveals WHAT It's REALLY Like 09/03/2023

Lesley Paterson: Oscar Winner Reveals WHAT It's REALLY Like In this captivating podcast episode, we take a thrilling journey into the life and achievements of Lesley Paterson, a Scottish triathlete, author, screenwriter, and film producer. From conquering numerous triathlon world championships to establishing herself in Hollywood, Paterson's talent knows no bounds. Together with her writing-producing partner, Ian Stokell, Paterson embarked on a monumental endeavor - bringing Erich Maria Remarque's anti-war masterpiece, "All Quiet on the Western Front," back to life on the silver screen. Delving into their shared passion for the novel, they realized the potential for an adaptation using modern cinematic technology. Stripping the film of typical war genre clichés, she and Stokell crafted a screenplay that showcased the true essence of human struggle, hopelessness, and apathy during the war. Amidst financial challenges, including personal sacrifices and overcoming Lyme disease, Paterson's unwavering determination prevailed. The journey to bring this cinematic gem to life was a rollercoaster of ups and downs, with Daniel Radcliffe eager to act in the film, but the lack of funding posing obstacles. Fast forward to the present, the landscape of the film industry has changed, with streaming services gaining prominence. The success of story-driven films like "Parasite" and WWI-themed films like "1917" has opened doors for authentic storytelling. Through grit and determination, the project started to gain traction when German director Edward Berger and producer Malte Grunert approached Paterson and Stokell with a desire to create the film in the German language. With Netflix winning the bid, the stars aligned, and the film took flight. "All Quite on the Western Front" credited to Berger, Paterson, and Stokell, received accolades beyond measure, receiving nine Oscar nominations, and taking home 4 Academy Awards for best international feature, production design, score and Cinematography and an impressive fourteen BAFTA Award nominations with 7 wins in total, including the coveted Best Adapted Screenplay. Prepare to be inspired by Lesley Paterson as we unravel the story behind the Oscar-winning "All Quiet on the Western Front." Join us as we celebrate her triumphs, challenges, and unwavering passion that brought this film to life and into the homes of audiences worldwide. 🎬✨ This podcast episode is a must-listen for film enthusiasts, creative minds, and anyone seeking to learn how a commitment to passion and patience can translate into fulfilling your goals. Tune in now to be a part of this unforgettable conversation with Lesley Paterson! 🎧🌠 Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: Linkedin: TikTok: $alesLoop: Spotify: Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: Understanding the importance of being passionate about what you do Financial struggles and selling possessions before Netflix greenlit their film project Gratitude for having opportunities in the film and TV industry Recognizing that some people just want to be heard, not necessarily seeking solutions They express their belief in the importance of listening to others and understanding different perspectives. Lesley highlights the importance of gratitude and facing challenges with a positive mindset /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27895698

Henry Ammar: Good Enough is Never Enough, this Is Why You DON'T SUCCEED! 08/09/2023

Henry Ammar: Good Enough is Never Enough, this Is Why You DON'T SUCCEED! Welcome to The Mark Drager Show! In this podcast, we are honored to feature Henry Ammar, an International Life Speaker, Entrepreneur, and the creative force behind the acclaimed podcast "Making It Happen with Henry Ammar." Henry's profound impact is evident through his podcast's impressive success, hitting #1 in the Training Category and #6 in the Education Category on the iTunes Charts. He's graced stages worldwide, captivating audiences of up to 35,000 people at a time, leaving a lasting impression with his powerful keynote speeches. Beyond his achievements, Henry's commitment to making a difference shines through his passionate collaborations with significant causes. From international peace projects with Yoko Ono through the Exit Festival to global movements supporting the severely hungry with the UN World Food Programme, Henry Ammar's influence spans far and wide. Join us on this weeks episode as we delve into transformative conversations with Henry Ammar. Discover stories of resilience, growth, and how to make a meaningful impact in our lives and the world. Prepare to be inspired and empowered by this extraordinary individual on our journey of growth and fulfillment. We discusses the concept of masculinity and the importance of being present and grounded in one's life. It emphasizes the power and love-based presence that a masculine individual can bring to a room or family, creating a sense of safety and different energy. Henry's uses the analogy of a basketball team to illustrate the different roles and qualities needed in various situations. The passage also touches on personal experiences, such as being in a boy band and reflecting on the significance-driven mindset at that time. Henry's expresses gratitude for not achieving excessive fame and highlights the importance of understanding oneself and evaluating personal growth regularly. The ultimate goal is to bring all parts of oneself into wholeness, leading to a higher version of oneself. The Henry's motivation for teaching personal development stems from a desire to alleviate suffering, both in their own life and in others', due to trauma and struggles. Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: Linkedin: TikTok: $alesLoop: Spotify: Apple Podcasts: Key Takeaways: Henry emphasizes the importance of not settling for "good enough" in various aspects of life. Henry's & Mark discuss their personal journey of realizing they were settling and deciding to make a change. Henry values conscious choice and flexibility in life, rather than being controlled by circumstances. They highlight the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded people who align with their values. Henry emphasizes the need for results over mere inspiration and shares their commitment to providing value. They discuss the power of co-regulation and having a supportive community to navigate through life's challenges. Henry encourages trust in others and the willingness to delegate tasks to achieve great things. They mention the process of acceptance, emotional understanding, healing past traumas, and reprogramming oneself for growth. Change is uncomfortable but taking simple steps is key. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27702627

Turning Passion into Success: Insights from Tina Guo, Brent Weeks, Oz Pearlman & More 08/04/2023

Turning Passion into Success: Insights from Tina Guo, Brent Weeks, Oz Pearlman & More Welcome to this week's mashup video featuring incredible individuals who have defied the odds, transformed their lives, and achieved remarkable success. Prepare to be inspired as we highlight the best moments and powerful stories of OZ, Damian Rider, IN-Q, Brent Weeks, Tina Guo, Damon West, Ryan Blair, and Melisa Urban. In "From Side Hustle to Success: How Oz Pearlman Turned Magic into a Career," witness Oz's journey as he navigates the world of magic, turning his passion into a thriving profession. Then, join Damian Rider as he breaks the bubble of fear in "Jumping Into Life," sharing his incredible feats that defy limitations and inspire others to embrace life to the fullest. In-Q's story of transitioning from a broke independent contractor to monetizing his art form will leave you inspired in "Transitioning From Broke Independent Contractor To Monetizing Art Form." Brent Weeks shares his resilience in "Embracing Financial Struggles in Youth & A Disastrous Pitch Leads to a Second Chance," revealing how setbacks can lead to opportunities for growth and success. Tina Guo's unconventional journey from scraping by to touring with Cirque du Soleil will mesmerize you in "From Scraping By to Touring with Cirque du Soleil: A Musician's Unconventional Journey." Damon West delves into the intricate tactics of a dope dealer, breaking down the business model of meth and burglary in an eye-opening account of transformation. Ryan Blair's journey from rock bottom to renewal showcases the power of healing and growth in "From Rock Bottom to Renewal: The Power of Healing and Growth." Finally, witness Melisa Urban's empowering journey in "Reclaiming Self-Worth: From Addiction to Empowerment," as she rises above addiction, reclaiming her self-worth and inspiring others to do the same. Get ready for an awe-inspiring mashup of stories that exemplify resilience, determination, and the indomitable human spirit. Join us on this remarkable journey as these individuals demonstrate the power of personal transformation, igniting a spark within each viewer to overcome obstacles and create a life of empowerment and success. Check Out More from The Mark Drager Show 📺: Instagram: * Linkedin: * TikTok: * $alesLoop: /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27656856

Anthony Trucks: Football Players Train Like WARRIORS To Make It In the NFL 07/31/2023

Ryan Blair: Rising from Rock Bottom 07/20/2023

Ryan Blair: Rising from Rock Bottom Ryan Blair is the CEO of ViSalus, #1 New York Times bestselling author, and serial entrepreneur who came from nothing to lose, and had everything to gain. At the age of 21 years old, Blair had already founded his first business, 24/ Tech, and has since created and sold numerous other companies for hundreds of millions of dollars over the course of his career. In 2012, Blair was named one of Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneurs of the Year in the “category for consumer products.” Blair is also a contributor for LinkedIn, Financial Times, and Forbes.com, and took a turn in movie production serving as Executive Producer for a number of films. In this engaging episode, Ryan shares his wealth of knowledge and experience, offering valuable insights into the world of business, leadership, and personal growth. As a visionary leader, he has built a thriving company and inspired countless individuals to achieve their goals. Through captivating conversations, Ryan delves into the strategies, mindset, and principles that have propelled him to the forefront of the industry. Gain invaluable advice on entrepreneurship, overcoming challenges, and cultivating a winning mindset from a true industry titan. Connect with Ryan Blair below: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Ryan went from having 20 employees to 3000+ full-time and 150,000 part-time employees in a short period of time. Ryan became the fastest-growing company on Wall Street and made a $100 million profit. They believe that traditional management philosophy was written by industrialists who saw people as things to be exploited. Their main motivator is their imaginary grandkids, which inspired them to get fit and lose weight. The speaker discusses the desire to be a rock star and the lessons learned from that experience. They acknowledge the negative aspects of direct selling and network marketing but also recognize its place in certain contexts. Ryans goal is to help entrepreneurs become their best selves and reach their full potential. Ryan discusses mistakes made by their company and the parent company's responsibility in those mistakes. The speaker emphasizes the importance of finding true love and satisfaction in life beyond material wealth. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27510273

Damon West: From a Life of Crime to a Life of Purpose, Damon West's Path to Redemption 07/13/2023

Damon West: From a Life of Crime to a Life of Purpose, Damon West's Path to Redemption In prison, Damon got SOBER, went through a SPIRITUAL AWAKENING, and started down his true life’s calling which he continued to build on after his parole more than 7 years later. Within the confines of prison, Damon embarked on an awe-inspiring journey of self-discovery and transformation. Stripped away from the clutches of addiction, he embarked on a path of sobriety, paving the way for profound change. In the depths of his confinement, Damon underwent a spiritual awakening, unearthing a deeper connection to his inner self and the world around him. This pivotal moment became the catalyst for embracing his true life's calling, a purpose that would resonate far beyond his eventual parole, spanning over seven years. With unyielding determination, he continued to build upon this foundation, forging a path that defied all odds and surpassed the boundaries of his previous existence. Damon West is a remarkable individual who defied the odds and found redemption in the unlikeliest of places. In this captivating podcast, Damon shares his gripping story of transformation, from a life consumed by addiction and crime to a path of resilience, growth, and inspiring others to change. Join us as we explore the depths of his time in prison, the pivotal moments that sparked his personal revolution, and the profound lessons he learned along the way. Get ready for an unfiltered conversation that delves into the human spirit, highlighting the power of second chances, and igniting a fire within each listener to overcome obstacles and create positive change in their own lives. Key Takeaways: The speaker questions the severity of their sentence for organized crime. Knowledge is useless if it is not applied. The person passed on the message to someone else in jail, who then spread it worldwide. Personal behaviors and actions led to negative consequences, but they were able to change and improve their life. Resentment should be shifted towards self-improvement rather than self-hate. The present is a gift and an opportunity to create a better life. Taking the easy path can lead to an unintended destination. The person's website is Damonwest.org and their books can be found on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27453789

Azrya Bequer: The Simple Reason You MUST Embrace Your Dark Side 07/06/2023

Mick Ebeling: It's Possible at Not Impossible. Real Life Motivation with Time Magazine's Top 50 Inventors 06/30/2023

Mick Ebeling: It's Possible at Not Impossible. Real Life Motivation with Time Magazine's Top 50 Inventors Mick Ebeling founded Not Impossible, a multiple award-winning social innovation lab and production company, on the premise that nothing is impossible. His mantra of “commit, then figure it out” allows him to convene a disparate team of hackers, doers, makers and thinkers to create devices that better the world by bringing accessibility for all. This unconventional approach brought to life highly acclaimed initiatives -- the EyeWriter, Project Daniel, Don’s Voice and most recently Music: Not Impossible -- that brought the ability to draw back to a paraplegic street artist, 3D-printed arms to Sudanese amputees, a ‘voice’ to an ALS patient who hadn’t spoken in 15 years, and wearables that let deaf and hearing people alike feel music in a “surround body” experience. Ebeling’s book, Not Impossible: The Art and Joy of Doing What Couldn't Be Done, recounts the life experiences that led to the founding of Not Impossible. Published in a multitude of languages, the book was hailed as “a unique and inspiring tale of brave abandon” by Nicholas Negroponte. Key Takeaways: Staying true to values and ethics is important when facing challenges The company exists to create technology for the sake of humanity Despite difficulties, they have remained committed to their mission An opportunity presented itself and they took it, despite initial hesitation Helping even one person can make a difference and ego should not get in the way To learn more about the company, visit notimpossible.com or their social media channels. Everything we see or touch was once impossible. They helped someone without any agenda and it became Time Magazine's top 50 inventions. People want clarity and collaboration in advertising. The focus is on telling stories of real people making a difference in the world. Follow Not Impossible Labs on Twitter: Follow Mick Ebeling on Twitter: Follow on Instagram: /episode/index/show/wedohardthings/id/27330654