ISI Brotherhood Podcast

Welcome to View from the Top podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Steve Kinsley as he shares his Miraculous Adoption Story: How Two White Americans Adopted Alfie in South Africa.Steve’s story sends a message that anything is possible with faith and hard work. Despite being a 47-year-old white man from America with a volunteer visa to South Africa, he successfully adopted the baby with the help of a social worker. The story is a testament to the power of never giving up, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.Steve also shares two books from John Eldridge: "Just Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices for a World Gone Wild or Gone Mad" and "Working Without a Net: How to Thrive and Survive in Today's High-Risk Business World," both have been meaningful to him over the last six months. Both books offer practical advice on how to disconnect from social media and reconnect with nature.3 Key TakeawaysAlways be open to God's guidance and willing to accept and follow it, even if it isn't what you initially expected.Sometimes we must surrender to God and trust that He will provide us with our needs, even if it means giving up something we want.One small act of kindness can significantly impact someone's life. The power of one person can be profound, and even a small act of kindness can make a big difference.AboutAs chief of staff of Navitas Wealth Advisors, Steve Kinsley provides strategic counsel and support to the executive team and oversees day-to-day operations. With over 40 years as a systems specialist in crucial leadership roles, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the Navitas team. His expertise in creating, establishing, and streamlining effective processes and procedures and implementing those is crucial to the firm’s success.Connect with Steve Kinsley:Website: https://navitaswa.com/team/steve-c-kinsley/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-kinsley/If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Welcome to View from the Top podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Justin Skinner who shares how one can get through a failure and use it to improve oneself and others.Justin believes that the courage one can muster to overcome the fear of failure is a muscle that can be built through practice. Practice coupled with the right mindset of digging for lessons every time you experience a failure, or understanding that it is there to better you and ultimately lead to some sort of success.3 Key TakeawaysSometimes there's just things that are out of our control. We just have to accept it and keep moving forward with humility.Understand that failure is there to better you, or ultimately lead to some sort of successCuriosity coupled with humility is going to make you a pretty dangerous manAboutJustin Skinner is a farm-raised entrepreneur, author, speaker, and performance coach from the great midwest. He lives in Springfield, Missouri with his beautiful wife Kendra Skinner, and their little dog Daisy. Justin played collegiate baseball as a two-way player and is now a full-time author and real estate investor. He is the author of the book Professional Failure and host of The Professional Failure Podcast, where he and his guests share stories and lessons learned from past failures. Justin has many stories of failures and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way to success. He is passionate about sharing these lessons he has learned with others so they may enjoy their own success in life!In his downtime, Justin enjoys traveling with Kendra, playing pickleball, having good conversations, and anything active.Connect with Justin Skinner:Website: https://www.professional-failure.com/Podcast: https://www.professional-failure.com/podcastInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/justincskinner/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theprofessionalfailureTwitter: https://twitter.com/JustinCSkinnerYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ0DeLAZQgJNPPu4zYjCwFwIf you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Reluctant Thought Leader and expert ghostwriter, Paul Edwards joins Big A and Wally on this episode to share his wisdom on being a thought leader and overcoming the obstacles to writing and publishing to the world. Learn to ask the three big questions when writing a book: whom are you writing to, what’s your message, and what is your call to action?In this episode, you will learn the following:1. How to overcome that initial writer’s block when you set out to write a book2. How to step into the shoes of the person to whom you’re listening to be an effective ghostwriter3. What kind of impact or experiences people want to have as a result of publishing their wisdom and sharing it with the worldResourcesPaul's LinkedInPaul's websiteAbout Paul Edwards wears many hats – ghostwriting agency owner, bestselling author, and master connector. Husband, father, and older brother to younger men. Amateur theologian, men’s physique athlete, voice mimic, and recovering insurance salesman. A first-generation Spanish-speaking immigrant to the US with African heritage and Middle East combat experience, Paul’s lived in five different countries, speaks two languages, and holds three passports. Paul does one thing well: communicates with people. When he isn’t writing content for clients, you’re most likely to find him speaking and building relationships for his network. If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Welcome to View from the Top podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Patrick Lewis, President and CEO of Superior Rigging & Erecting Co., who shares his inspiring story of grit and relentlessness, from being a cocaine addict to running a multimillion-dollar company.Patrick recounted how his dad worked for half a day in the Superior Rigging & Erecting Co. and never left. This has become indicative of everything that changed their family tree. He missed his childhood when he was forced to work for the company where his dad works because he had to save money to buy his school clothes. Patrick believed that it helped set the groundwork for discipline but also set up a lot of bad decisions later in life when he got some freedom to relive a childhood that was taken away from him. His first wrong decision was having an affair that led to him losing his family and getting addicted to cocaine to quench his loneliness. It even escalated to depression and suicidal thoughts. However, he slowly recovered from that downward path with therapy and a gratitude mindset.His company then started growing into areas and new markets, but he knew that money would never make him happy. Buying things will fill a void that can never mend. He learned that he needed to forgive his father to heal the wounds inflicted and accepted that it was just the way his father was.Presently, he is learning to relate with his children. He knows he is not perfect but keeps trying by putting guardrails in place through love to help them understand that it is okay to be who they are.Outline of the Episode:[00:00] Intro[03:42] How Patrick got started in the company.[10:09] What would Patrick say to young dads now with their kids coming along?[12:37] Getting married at 21, having three kids, and getting divorced at 29.[14:56] Decisions he’s made that have led him down a path of addiction.[21:00] Practicing gratitude[23:56] How do you cope with the past?[28:01] How to support your kids’ dreams through love.[33:57] Core values and culture as critical factors to business[37:34] What does he value most in an employee?About Patrick Lewis:Patrick Lewis is the President and CEO at Superior Rigging & Erecting Co., a hoisting, rigging, and steel erection company located in Atlanta, Georgia, and Orlando, Florida. He began working for Superior when he was ten years old and has seen the company grow from a small family business to a leader in their industry, employing over 370 employees. Patrick held multiple positions within the company before taking over as Owner/President in 2001.Patrick attended Mercer University and received his Millwright JATC in 1996. Amongst his many accomplishments, Patrick is also Head Coach of Georgia Impact Fastpitch Softball and led his 18U team to become PGF National Champions in 2018.Connect with Patrick Lewis:Website:      https://superiorrigging.com/ If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s

Tune into this special episode where Big A and Wally reminisce about past Thanksgivings, lessons they’ve learned about gratitude and generosity, and traditions they wish to pass on. Wally shares a story about expressing gratitude for and affirming each other at each Thanksgiving dinner. Hear Big A’s story about getting out of Black Friday shopping that led to a new family tradition called Gratitude Day.3 Key TakeawaysGratitude and generosity is about recognizing that what we have is not ours, we are only stewards of the blessings we’ve received.Loving others and showing generosity isn’t about the amount of money or the extravagance of the gift. It’s about your time and effort.You don’t need a spouse or children or grandchildren to share your life with others. Be generous, in whatever capacity you can.If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

In today's episode, Brian Mininger of Bear Creek Enterprises joins Big A and Wally to share how he and his family coped with some difficult times, including bankruptcy, and how they eventually found success again. They discuss how to better prepare for uncertainty, how therapy and a long sabbatical transformed Brian’s perspective and ability to take control, and the value of role models in each of our lives.In this episode, you will learn the following:How Brian Mininger and his family weathered a difficult season in their lives, including both business and personal bankruptcy, and how you can better prepare for uncertainty going forward.How doing inner work with a counselor and taking a sabbatical dramatically improved Brian’s ability to choose his own responses to situations.The importance of role models in your life, and knowing that someone may be looking to you for guidance–especially when you don’t know it.About Brian's LinkedInBrian Mininger, Co-Founder and VP of Bear Creek Enterprises, is a passionate "builder." He worked in the construction industry for over 25 years, so he has a strong background in leadership, team building, and operations. Brian resides in VA with his wife, Victoria, and four daughters: Michaela, Anna, Rachel, and Kaitlyn. In his downtime, he enjoys participating in activities for his daughters and the events that are going on at their schools. Brian loves being outdoors. Specifically, hiking in Shenandoah National Park and trail running. He competed in a few ultra-events and looks forward to running more races in the future.Fun Facts about BrianHe would like to complete a hundred-mile ultra-marathon someday. His favorite ice cream is chocolate chip cookie dough. He loves the movie Remember the TitansHe is a huge college basketball and football fan.He cheers for the Atlanta BravesBrian is a part of the ISI Mastermind DecemFortis (Monday 10:00 am)If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

In today's world, it's more important than ever to have a strong network of supportive relationships. For Matt Miller, that network has been crucial in weathering some of life's biggest storms. He joins hosts Big A and Wally in this episode to discuss how to deal with life’s ups and downs, and using the lessons learned to push forward. They dive into the value of mastermind groups, developing determination and grit, and how–with patience and gratitude–challenges can lead to amazing opportunities on the other side.In this episode, you will learn the following:How to turn difficult situations into opportunities for growth and success.The value of mastermind groups and their invaluable comradery and support.The importance of determination and perseverance when facing challenges.ResourcesSchool Spirit Vending websiteMatt Miller's LinkedInAbout Matt Miller spends his time helping schools utilize hassle-free fundraising programs to allow them and their volunteers to spend more time doing what they do best–educating children. In order to help schools, he teaches busy professionals how to duplicate their proven fundraising systems and create a business to create income on the side. He founded School Spirit Vending and co-founded School News Guru for this purpose. To date, the combined companies and their teams have raised and donated millions of dollars to education across the US.If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Why are morning routines important? Why exercise, journal, read, or meditate early in the morning when you could do those same things throughout the day when you have time?Ryan Cote, founder of Morning Upgrade, joins Big A and Wally on this episode to discuss the value of morning routines and personal growth.Tune into this episode to get their insight on what message you’re sending to your subconscious through a morning routine, the value of gratitude in keeping a positive mindset, and why journaling can be a useful practice.In this episode, you will learn the following:Why a morning routine is useful in focusing on what you want to accomplish that day.How different types of journaling can be useful, including both establishing a legacy of learning from others, and setting your attitude toward a positive mindset.Why developing a practice of gratitude can transform your way of thinking and keeping a positive lens, especially when going through a rough patch.ResourcesRyan's LinkedInMorningUpgrade.comThe Entrepreneur's Secret Weapon by Ryan CoteAmbition by Seth BuechleyAbout RyanRyan Cote (co-tay) is the Founder of Morning Upgrade, a business dedicated to raising the awareness of personal development and morning routines. He is also a real estate investor and co-owner in Ballantine (Bal-en-tine), his family's marketing agency and roofing company. Ryan lives in New Jersey with his wife and 3 daughters.If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Remember what it was like as a kid to have a big dream? Maybe you wanted to play in the NBA, or be a famous musician, or build a rocket ship to space. What if you actually took those dreams seriously?Derek Champagne, serial entrepreneur and author of Don’t Buy a Duck, joins this episode to discuss how you can stop settling for average. He grew up with a dream of being a professional musician, and when he was laughed at by his friends for this dream, he only worked harder to make it a reality. Tune in to hear how Derek’s successful journey has helped him reach his goals, learn the value of goals and priorities, and the value of communication.In this episode, you will learn the following:Never settle for average. Dream big and go for it.Happy, healthy relationships require regular, open communication. Set aside time to talk about the things that are important to you both.Learn how to lead by setting your priorities straight. It takes courage and quiet to turn off the distractions and gain the clarity you need to know your priorities. ResourcesDerek Champagne's LinkedInChampagne Marketing MastermindDon't Buy A Duck by Derek ChampagneAbout DerekDerek Champagne is a serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience developing effective marketing campaigns. He shares his story of growing up from humble beginnings, on stage at the age of three, his years as a Hollywood musician, and his diverse journey to get where he is today.Derek is the Founder & CEO of The Artist Evolution, a full-service agency building memorable brands, marketing tools, and campaigns for startups to household brands. He is also the author of the best-selling marketing book Don’t Buy a Duck and the host of the popular Business Leadership Series podcast that also airs as a weekly business show on ESPN radio regionally. Derek is also a published musician with contributions to soundtracks that have been featured on ABC, MTV, Bravo, E!, and Oxygen.He has been a member of ISI since 2016. If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Bret is a successful businessman who has learned the importance of leading with respect and appreciation for the unique gifts of those he works with.Bret Barnhart is a business owner and entrepreneur who has been in business since 2002. He is also a husband and father of three.This is Bret Barnhart's story...Bret Barnhart has been in business since 2002 and has always wanted to be one of the biggest excavation businesses in Oklahoma. However, ten years ago he was miserable and angry, often taking it out on his team members. He realized he needed to change and went on a journey to discover what would make him happy. He found coaching with Big A and it changed his life. He now understands the importance of embracing each team member's personality and using their gifts to build a successful business.In this episode, you will learn the following:Finding a Mentor will change everything for you.Use personality profile programs to better understand yourself and others. This will improve your relationships dramatically.How Bret's relationship with his team members has changed over the years, and how he has come to embrace their uniqueness.Resources:Barnhartexcavating.comBret’s Calendar LinkBret’s LinkedinAbout Bret:Bret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Bret started out with the family business knowledge and expanded it. In the beginning, his work mainly consisted of general earthwork, utility installation, and excavating pools and storm shelters. As his company grew, Bret saw the need for being more specialized and began pursuing certifications for government contracts and local municipal work. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.If you want to hear more speakers like this every month and be with the guys on the call, join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community today: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/isi-communityConnect with Big A:View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.comThe ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletterBig A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/