The Resilient Minds Podcast

In this episode of the podcast, I interview Dave Dodson, the author of The Manager's Handbook, who shares his journey from rural Colorado to Stanford University, where he now teaches a popular course on tactical execution. Dave opens up about how his book evolved from a collection of practical advice into a comprehensive guide designed to make managerial wisdom accessible, especially for community college programs. His aim is to help people learn five core management skills: building a team, seeking advice, setting priorities, time management, and maintaining quality. Dave emphasizes that these skills are not innate traits but can be learned and honed through practice. He explains how the book is structured to be a quick, actionable resource for managers, with each section offering practical strategies that can be implemented right away. The goal is for readers to be able to use the book as a reference—something they can return to as they progress in their managerial careers. The conversation shifts to the importance of effective meeting management. Dave stresses how crucial it is to have clear objectives for meetings, structure them for engagement, and follow up with concrete action items afterward. He also highlights a unique approach to meetings, suggesting that reversing the usual order of seniority can help create more inclusive and dynamic discussions, where even the most junior team members are encouraged to contribute ideas. As the discussion continues, Dave reflects on his leadership philosophy, which is centered around compassionate, participatory management. He notes that while technology and work environments continue to evolve—especially with the rise of remote work—the core principles of good leadership remain constant. The human side of management, he says, is what truly makes a difference in creating a positive organizational culture. The interview wraps up with Dave sharing the positive feedback he's received from readers, many of whom have found the book’s practical approach helpful in their own management roles. He's also working on developing additional materials—perhaps videos or supplementary content—to help readers better implement the principles he teaches. His goal is to ensure that the book's impact extends beyond just reading; he wants to help organizations create lasting, positive change. Finally, Dave offers a personal reflection on the role of family in his life and how his values have shaped his approach to leadership. He encourages listeners to share their own experiences, engage with him on LinkedIn, and use the book as a tool to improve their management skills. Thank you for your time and wisdom Dave Connect with Dave Dodson Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-dodson-author-investor Donate to Sanku https://projecthealthychildren.org/ Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Felix Brooks-Church, the co-founder and CEO of Sanku, an innovative organization dedicated to combating malnutrition and fighting hidden hunger in East Africa. With a mission to make nutrition a basic human right, Sanku is working at the intersection of food security, sustainability, and social impact to transform lives across some of the world’s most underserved communities. Felix takes us through an inspiring journey of how Sanku is tackling the global challenge of malnutrition—one that persists despite the availability of sufficient food. Often, people are full but still undernourished, a phenomenon known as “hidden hunger,” which affects millions, especially children and women of reproductive age. This form of malnutrition is more than just a lack of calories—it’s a lack of vital nutrients that are essential for healthy growth and development. As Felix unpacks Sanku’s mission to fortify staple foods, like flour, maize, and rice, we learn how this simple yet groundbreaking approach is making nutritious options more accessible, affordable, and scalable in communities where the impact of malnutrition is most severe. But the road to lasting change is never without its challenges. Scaling operations in low-resource settings, navigating logistical hurdles, and shifting local behaviors are just some of the obstacles Felix and his team face daily. Yet, it is within these challenges that true resilience is forged. Sanku’s innovative solution—a portable, local flour fortification machine—is transforming small mills in remote communities, enabling the production of nutrient-rich flour for millions of people. This localized approach builds resilience by reducing reliance on external resources and empowering local communities to take charge of their own nutritional needs. Felix shares his vision for Sanku’s future as the organization plans to expand into Ethiopia, where they aim to reach 40 million people. With a focus on sustainability, Sanku is working toward a future where their impact is self-sustaining, with reduced reliance on donations and increased local involvement in the food fortification process. Throughout the conversation, Felix also emphasizes the critical role of mothers in ensuring their children receive the proper nutrition. Empowering women to take charge of their families' health is key to combating malnutrition effectively. But as Felix points out, true transformation requires more than just nutrition—it requires community engagement, trust-building, and local leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn how small, thoughtful actions—from food fortification to community engagement—can create ripple effects of change that drive sustainable, long-term impact. Felix’s call to action is clear: by supporting organizations like Sanku, we all have a role in building a more resilient, healthier world. Whether through donations, spreading awareness, or simply sharing the message, you can help foster lasting change that impacts both individuals and communities in profound ways. Connect with Felix Brooks Church Linked In https://tz.linkedin.com/in/felixbc Donate to Sankuhttps://projecthealthychildren.org/ Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠

In this episode of The Resilient Minds Podcast, we sit down with Daniel Harmon, Chief Creative Officer at Harman Brothers and co-founder of Angel Studios. Daniel shares how his upbringing in rural Idaho, shaped by hard work and his parents’ lessons on freedom, influenced his entrepreneurial journey. We explore the evolution of Angel Studios, from its roots as VidAngel to a platform creating groundbreaking content like The Chosen and Tuttle Twins. Daniel discusses the transformative power of crowdfunding, which empowers audiences to champion meaningful stories while fostering community-driven engagement. The conversation dives into Tuttle Twins, an animated series educating children on economics and critical thinking, while sparking family conversations about freedom. Daniel also highlights the importance of decentralization, voluntary economic principles, and tools like Bitcoin in shaping a freer society. Beyond business, Daniel reflects on the challenges of balancing professional success with family life, emphasizing the importance of presence, values, and relationships. He leaves us with a hopeful message about the power of collaboration, education, and staying grounded in what matters most. This episode is an inspiring look at how storytelling can create lasting impact through principles of freedom, community, and resilience. Connect with Daniel Harmon Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielharmon/ Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠

In this episode, host Eric sits down with Lisa Hough, one of the leading advocates for Bitcoin and a recognized thought leader in the intersection of energy and Bitcoin. Recently named by Forbes as one of Bitcoin’s most influential voices, Lisa has spent her career building bridges between the Bitcoin community and energy companies. Her unique perspective has made her a key player in demonstrating the economic potential of Bitcoin mining, not only as a financial tool but as a solution to some of the world’s biggest energy challenges. The conversation kicks off with Lisa sharing her personal story of how she discovered Bitcoin. Having re-entered the workforce after a career break, Lisa was drawn to Bitcoin as a means to secure her financial independence. She explains how she quickly realized that Bitcoin wasn't just a digital currency; it was a universal language of economic freedom, capable of uniting people across the globe. This realization sparked a passion to introduce others to Bitcoin, especially through the lens of energy, where it has the power to create real-world solutions. Lisa’s journey into Bitcoin brought her into close contact with the energy sector, and that’s where her expertise truly shines. Living in Houston, the heart of America’s energy industry, Lisa began consulting with energy companies on how Bitcoin mining could help monetize excess energy resources. She explains how Bitcoin mining is uniquely positioned to help energy companies tap into wasted or surplus energy, turning it into a profitable asset. The potential of Bitcoin mining, Lisa notes, goes beyond just creating wealth for individual miners—it can bring massive economic benefits to entire industries. By partnering with power generation companies, Lisa has seen firsthand how Bitcoin can be integrated into existing energy infrastructure, offering a sustainable way to harness energy that would otherwise go to waste. One of the most intriguing points in their conversation is how Bitcoin mining acts as a "scavenger" of energy, utilizing energy that is otherwise wasted. Lisa compares traditional energy projects with Bitcoin mining infrastructure, noting that Bitcoin miners are not just consumers of power—they are coordinators of capital, helping to finance energy infrastructure projects and making use of energy that would otherwise be discarded. In Lisa’s view, Bitcoin mining could help foster a future of energy abundance, where surplus resources are put to productive use rather than wasted. This vision aligns with a broader goal of creating economic prosperity, not just for Bitcoin miners, but for entire industries and communities that could benefit from a more efficient and sustainable energy system. Eric then shifts the conversation to his own collaborative project, which blends waste stream capture with Bitcoin mining. Coming from a background in oil fields and finance, Eric sees Bitcoin mining as an innovative way to capture waste energy, like flared gas, and convert it into a profitable asset. He shares how his project combines heat generation, power production, and Bitcoin mining to unlock value from energy that would otherwise be lost. This project has the potential to revolutionize how energy companies think about waste and resource utilization. Eric and Lisa discuss how this approach can be scaled, and how private equity, energy companies, and Bitcoin miners can work together to create a more sustainable and profitable energy ecosystem. Eric even extends an invitation to Lisa to become an advisor on the project, recognizing her invaluable expertise in both the Bitcoin and energy sectors. Connect with Lisa Hough: LinkedIn Profile Twitter Handle Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠

In this inspiring episode, host Eric interviews Preston Smiles, a leader in empowering others through conscious content. Preston shares his mission to inspire personal growth and highlights pivotal moments in his life, including a transformative experience at age 15 and a serendipitous meeting with his wife, illustrating the power of inner guidance. The conversation delves into the importance of spiritual guidance and body wisdom, with Preston recounting a moving story about helping a dying woman in New York. He emphasizes breaking free from a scarcity mindset and processing trauma to foster personal development, advocating for surrounding oneself with supportive communities. Preston introduces his upcoming book, "Spiritual Millionaire," which offers a spiritual perspective on wealth and success. He encourages listeners to adopt a positive mindset and highlights the importance of perspective in achieving their goals. Listeners are invited to pre-order the book, follow Preston on Instagram for more insights, and explore resources at prestonsmiles.com. Tune in for a transformative discussion on resilience, abundance, and the power of mindset. Grateful for your time and wisdom my friend.  Connect with Preston Smiles Website: https://prestonsmiles.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prestonsmiles Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠

In the world of personal development and community well-being, few voices resonated as profoundly as Kerwin Rae's. In a recent episode of the Resilient Minds podcast, host Eric had the honor of engaging with Kerwin, weeks before his passing. Their conversation explored the depths of personal growth, the intricacies of community dynamics, and the challenges of modern economics, all woven together by Kerwin’s unwavering belief in the power of purpose. Kerwin opened the dialogue with a compelling vision: to push civilization forward by helping individuals uncover their true purpose. As a father and advocate for inner transformation, he spoke passionately about balancing these roles. His commitment to personal renovation was not just about self-improvement; it was a journey of becoming "unstoppable." The discussion quickly turned to self-awareness, a cornerstone of Kerwin's philosophy. He urged listeners to witness their emotions rather than simply expressing them. By understanding the biology of emotions and learning to regulate them, he emphasized the difference between egoic awareness and pure awareness. His approach encouraged a practice of non-judgmental observation, a vital tool for anyone seeking genuine growth. As the conversation deepened, Kerwin tackled the pressing issue of toxic masculinity. He called for understanding and connection, rather than separation. “Community is essential for both personal and collective growth,” he stated, illustrating how businesses play a crucial role in fostering healthy environments. His insights highlighted the interconnectedness of our lives and the importance of supportive relationships. The Pebbles in the Pond. Kerwin also critiqued the existing economic models, sharing his concerns about inflation’s impact on small businesses in Australia. He advocated for self-sustainability and explored the potential of decentralization, even touching on Bitcoin as a beacon of hope for a new economic landscape. In his closing thoughts, Kerwin shared a powerful reminder: if given limited time, one should prioritize family above all else. This heartfelt sentiment encapsulated his holistic approach to life—one that values resilience, meaningful connections, and the pursuit of purpose. Though Kerwin Rae is no longer with us, his legacy continues to inspire. His insights serve as a guiding light for those striving for personal development and seeking to build healthier communities. In every conversation, in every shared moment, Kerwin's message endures: we are all interconnected, and together, we can foster a brighter future. You are always remembered my dear friend. https://kerwinrae.com/kerwins-story/

In this episode of the Resilient Minds Podcast, host Eric Balance interviews Gerald Rogers, a transformational leader who has made a remarkable shift from real estate investing to guiding personal growth. Gerald shares his journey, detailing how he became a facilitator of workshops and retreats focused on healing and self-discovery. He discusses the rapid changes in society driven by technology and how these shifts are bringing back ancient healing practices like breathwork and psychedelics. A key focus of the conversation is the importance of personal responsibility in healing trauma. Gerald advocates for the safe and intentional use of psychedelics, encouraging listeners to explore these modalities thoughtfully. Throughout the episode, Gerald emphasizes the power of our words and thoughts, urging listeners to rethink their perspectives on health and healing. He believes that by changing our mindset, we can unlock deeper fulfillment in our lives. The episode concludes with Gerald’s commitment to supporting growth-oriented entrepreneurs, highlighting the vital role of love and connection in achieving true satisfaction. He invites listeners to reach out for collaboration opportunities, fostering a community of like-minded individuals on the path to personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in transformative healing and personal development. Gerald Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/therealgeraldrogers/ Gerald IG: https://www.instagram.com/geraldrrogers/ Gerald website: https://gerald360.com/ Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠  

 In this episode we dive into the captivating journey of entrepreneur Gary Cardone. With a rich background spanning energy, real estate, finance, and digital innovation, Gary’s story is one of resilience and transformation. He begins by recounting his early experiences in the oil and gas industry, where he learned the value of personal integrity and the need for adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of business. As Gary transitioned from traditional sectors to the realm of cryptocurrency, he discovered the profound potential of Bitcoin to reshape global markets. He reflects on how this shift not only sparked his interest in self-discovery and innovation but also opened new avenues for financial planning in the emerging financial landscape.  Throughout the episode, we discuss effective strategies for navigating the complexities of this digital frontier, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and proactive. Gary also highlights the significance of teamwork and collaboration, sharing personal anecdotes that illustrate how collective efforts can lead to greater success. He believes that growth often comes from practical experiences, which can provide invaluable lessons in both personal and professional realms. As the conversation wraps up, Gary offers his predictions for future trends in business and Bitcoin, stressing the crucial role of critical thinking in addressing the challenges that lie ahead. With actionable insights and thought-provoking ideas, this episode serves as a compelling reminder for listeners to embrace integrity, adaptability, and collaboration as they navigate their own entrepreneurial journeys. Connect with Garyhttps://garycardone.me/Gary Cardone -Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/in/garycardone Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠  

Dr. Chau Ong, a Vietnamese immigrant and pharmacy doctor, shares his transformative journey to financial independence. Discover how he turned challenges into opportunities through Airbnb arbitrage and founded a coaching company specializing in midterm rentals. Dr. Ong delivers valuable insights on aligning your actions with your core values and critiques the outdated educational system, urging us to create better paths for future generations. He emphasizes the importance of healthy relationships in both personal and business success, advocating for unconditional love as a cornerstone of achievement. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies for leveraging properties for corporate housing and learn how a positive mindset can propel you toward your long-term goals. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips to help you break free and design a life of true freedom. Thank you for sharing your experience and insights. Dr Chau Ong LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drchaubnb Dr Chau Ong IG: https://www.instagram.com/drchaubnb/ Dr Chau Ong Website: https://www.drchauong.com/ Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Michelle Fernandes, a passionate entrepreneur whose journey spans over 20 years in business consulting and education. As the founder of Approach International Student Center, Michelle has dedicated her life to creating transformative opportunities for immigrants, guiding them as they navigate new horizons. Our conversation unfolds as Michelle shares her leadership philosophy, rooted in a people-centric approach that emphasizes the importance of employee development and integration. She paints a vivid picture of her work culture, where innovation and compassion go hand in hand. Michelle’s commitment to her team shines through as she discusses her unique initiatives, like 'Babies at Work,' which not only support employees but also foster a sense of community and belonging. Michelle’s impact doesn’t stop there. Driven by a vision to uplift her community, she recounts the incredible journey of establishing a local school in Marlboro, sparked by the momentum her organization created. It’s a testament to how one person's vision can lead to lasting change. As we dive deeper, we explore the future, touching on trends like decentralization and Bitcoin. Michelle shares her insights not just as a business leader but as a devoted family member, highlighting the importance of integrating work and well-being in a fast-paced world. Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Michelle, who exemplifies what it means to lead with your heart. Her story is a reminder of the power of compassion and innovation in creating a empowered future for all. A Journey of Empowerment: Discover how Michelle’s background in entrepreneurship and education led her to found Approach International Student Center. A People-Centric Leadership Style: Learn about her innovative practices that prioritize employee development and a positive work culture. Community Impact: Hear the inspiring story behind the establishment of a local school in Marlboro and the vision that made it possible. Future Trends: Gain insights into decentralization and Bitcoin as Michelle shares her thoughts on the evolving landscape of business. Integrating Life and Work: Reflect on the importance of family and well-being, as Michelle emphasizes the need for harmony in our busy lives. Michelle LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfernandesusa Michelle IG: https://www.instagram.com/mfernandes_usa/ Approach IG: https://www.instagram.com/approach_usa/ Hit me up on social media and say hi! Youtube:⁠ https://bit.ly/35nJ0uV⁠ Podcast:⁠ http://www.ericbalance.com/podcast/⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/ericbalance/⁠ LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbalance/⁠ Facebook - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/eric.lajczak⁠ Conscious Entrepreneurship Masterclass ⁠https://consciousentrepreneurship.online⁠ Scale your Business with a Summit ⁠https://balancemedia.ventures/summit-masterclass-get-access⁠