

The Playbook With David Meltzer
David Meltzer, Entrepreneur.com
Welcome to The Playbook, hosted by entrepreneur, CEO, author and keynote speaker David Meltzer. On the podcast you’ll find a mix of interviews, Q&A, fireside chats, keynotes, and exclusive conversations with the most influential CEO’s, sports icons, and successful entrepreneurs who share their personal and professional play-by-play of the “what”, “why”, and “how” to achieve anything you set your mind to.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 26, 2025 • 33min
Turning Losses into Lessons with Brandon Dawson
In today’s episode, I sit down with Brandon Dawson to share stories of resilience, transformation, and purpose. We discuss our journeys from financial success to devastating losses, including my own experience of losing $100 million, and how we both found a renewed sense of purpose by shifting from self-serving goals to empowering others. We explore the stages of life, from the world of "not enough" to "just enough" and finally "more than enough," and how learning to love ourselves and helping others has been a critical part of our personal growth. Brandon also shares his own struggles and triumphs, as well as the importance of mentorship and faith.

Jan 25, 2025 • 20min
How to Live with Purpose and Unshakable Self-Worth
In today’s episode, Craig Siegel and I are joined by the incredible Alethea Crimmins, a pre-K teacher and motivational speaker who turned years of adversity into a mission of empowerment and purpose. In this conversation, Alethea shares her approach to breaking through self-imposed limitations, embracing faith, and owning your worth unapologetically. We discuss how to set non-negotiable standards for your life, navigate negativity, and create your own table where abundance thrives. With her energy and wisdom, Alethea inspires us all to shine brighter without dimming anyone else’s light.

Jan 24, 2025 • 17min
The Role of Frequency in Finding Inner Peace
In today's episode, I speak with Craig Goldberg, a technologist, Certified Vibroacoustic Therapy Practitioner, and patented inventor who leads inHarmony, a company dedicated to helping people find inner calm through sound and vibration. Craig explains how vibroacoustic therapy is transforming the way we approach stress, anxiety, and overall well-being. We discuss the science behind frequency's impact on the body, how sound can evoke emotional healing, and the role of awareness in achieving balance. Craig also shares his personal experiences with altered states and how inHarmony technology can help anyone access higher frequencies and a deeper sense of relaxation.

Jan 23, 2025 • 21min
Why Recognition Outshines Compensation
In today’s episode, I sit down with Kurt Rotherham, the founder of The Elite Group and Elite Recognition, to discuss the power of employee appreciation and recognition. Kurt shares how his company began in a garage and grew into a leading provider of promotional products and service awards. We explore how meaningful recognition impacts motivation, productivity, and loyalty in the workplace. Kurt explains why customer service and adaptability remain core to his company’s success and how younger generations are bringing fresh perspectives to traditional businesses. Together, we uncover what it takes to build a thriving business rooted in values, resilience, and a commitment to giving back.

Jan 22, 2025 • 23min
How to Align, Act, and Adapt for Success
In today’s episode, I tackle questions from a live Q&A session, offering guidance on alignment, action, and adjustment to achieve personal and professional goals. Topics include building confidence by surrounding yourself with the right people, creating contracts for collaborations, and articulating value in business proposals. I share practical tips on starting a business, overcoming fear, and using the "AAA" philosophy to align your actions with your objectives. I also discuss the importance of maintaining balance in your daily practices, reconnecting with your purpose, and removing obstacles that interfere with your progress. This session is a deep dive into practical strategies for growth and success.

Jan 21, 2025 • 39min
The Leadership Framework That Drives Team Success
In today’s episode, I share how the "Shadow Method" creates opportunities for growth by combining observation, feedback, and collaboration. I explore how to transform negativity in team dynamics, the value of canceling resistance, and how clarity in communication can shift conversations toward solutions. You'll also hear insights on embracing a coach's mindset, leveraging perceived value in sales, and the critical importance of understanding timing and risk tolerance. Through personal stories, practical frameworks, and lessons learned from successes and setbacks, I show how cultivating an abundant mindset can elevate leadership, collaboration, and results.

Jan 20, 2025 • 56min
How to Build a Sales Network That Sells for You
In this training session, I shared the Five to Thrive sales system—a powerful approach to creating long-lasting relationships and building a thriving community. This system focuses on stimulating interest, transitioning it into shared goals, managing and developing visions, and ultimately creating a network of advocates who both buy from you and sell for you. By prioritizing credibility, emotional connections, and adaptability, this framework goes beyond transactions, fostering trust and delivering value that drives mutual success. Let’s commit to implementing these principles to create meaningful connections and a prosperous future together.To join future Free Friday Training sessions, register at:https://free.dmeltzer.com/friday-training-1

Jan 19, 2025 • 22min
Why Asking for Help Is a Superpower
In today's episode, I join Paul Rakowicz, host of the Leveraging Your Voice podcast, for a thought-provoking conversation about mindset, personal growth, and the practical steps to achieving success. We explore the five essential practices for reaching your goals: knowing your what, your who, your how, your now, and applying your why. I share insights on aligning your daily actions with your desired outcomes, the importance of asking for help, and the power of gratitude and faith. Paul and I also discuss how emotional control and intentionality are key to building the life you want.

Jan 18, 2025 • 50min
How Intuition and Practicality Shape Success
Today's episode captures a live Q&A session in Atlanta, where I share how I calculate emotional expense to quantify the true cost of worry and stress. I explain how aligning intuition with practical decision-making can elevate both personal and professional outcomes, and why non-negotiable habits are essential for living with purpose. I also address raising capital with authenticity, managing time as a resource, and navigating relationships that both feed and challenge us.

Jan 17, 2025 • 26min
Why Successful People Ask for More
In today's episode, I reflect on the lessons I’ve learned about wealth, giving, and the true meaning of abundance. From losing over $100 million to rediscovering gratitude and faith, I share the principles that transformed my life and mindset. We explore how to align intention with action, why giving and receiving are equally vital, and the power of asking for help. I also discuss my daily routines, the importance of prioritizing time, and the value of learning to love what others avoid. These strategies have shaped my journey and can help you achieve more than you ever imagined.


