

The Circuit of Success Podcast with Brett Gilliland
BEYOND Media Group
The podcast for success, entrepreneurship, business, mentorship.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 22, 2024 • 24min
Michael Leon’s Mission to Provide Opportunities
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a professional soccer player? Or how one person’s passion for the sport can lead to making a positive impact on the lives of others? In a recent episode of the “Circuit of Success” podcast, host Brett Gilliland sat down with guest Michael Leon to explore his inspiring journey and commitment to giving back. Michael Leon was born and raised in Accra, Ghana, and graduated from the Right to Dream Academy. From ages 11-15, he participated in training attachments with FC Nordsjaelland and Manchester City. He is an alumnus of the Hotchkiss School and is currently a member of the men’s soccer team at the University of Michigan.
The Michael Leon Project
“The Michael Leon Project” is a short documentary that follows University of Michigan soccer star, Michael Leon, as he returns to his hometown of Accra, Ghana to give 100 uniforms to the youth team that ignited his passion for soccer. Explore Michael’s Ghanaian roots, feel the unbreakable bonds of his community, and witness the transformative power of sports. This documentary serves as a tribute to the lasting impact of philanthropy and the profound results of following your dreams.
Watch Here: The Michael Leon Project
Personal Growth and Aspirations
Michael Leon believes that personal growth should be prioritized over comparison. He shared his aspirations of signing a professional contract and making a difference in the world. His dedication to the sport and desire to inspire dreams and change are remarkable. One of the ways Michael is making a positive impact is through his involvement in community projects. He has donated jerseys to underprivileged athletes in Ghana, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their passion for soccer. His commitment to creating opportunities for others is truly inspiring.
Throughout the podcast episode, Michael expresses his gratitude for the support systems that have helped him along his journey. He acknowledges the importance of having a strong network of people who believe in you and push you to achieve your goals. Looking towards the future, Michael plans to continue his rigorous training routine and be a role model for aspiring soccer players.

Apr 15, 2024 • 46min
Insights from Kendra Scott CEO | Circuit of Success
In this episode of the Circuit of Success podcast, host Brett Gilliland had the opportunity to interview Tom Nolan, the CEO of Kendra Scott, a renowned U.S. jewelry and accessories brand. Tom’s career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary, transitioning from a college athlete to a leader in the fashion and lifestyle industry.
Before becoming CEO, he served as Chief Marketing & Chief Revenue Officer, where he played a pivotal role in driving strategic revenue growth for the billion-dollar brand. Under Tom’s guidance, Kendra Scott is poised to have its most successful year to date, with plans to nearly double its number of stores in the next three years. During the interview, Tom shared valuable insights on the importance of setting clear goals, problem-solving, and leading by example. He emphasized the transformative power of empathy, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of meaningful impact.
Tom’s leadership philosophy revolves around integrating the brand’s core pillars of fashion, family, and philanthropy into every consumer touchpoint within the business. His candidness about his fears, motivations, and struggles provided a glimpse into his mindset and approach to both personal and professional endeavors.
Listen to be inspired by Tom’s authenticity, champion mindset, and commitment to lifelong learning. His advice on consistency, surrounding oneself with a supportive network, and embracing failure as a stepping stone to success resonates with aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals alike. The episode serves as a reminder of the transformative power of hard work, resilience, and dedication, leaving listeners motivated to pursue their own paths to success.

Apr 8, 2024 • 52min
How To Unleash Your True Potential
Rick Torrison, the founder of Right Now Leadership LLC & Revival Rivers Non-Profit, is a highly respected Success Coach, international speaker, and certified John C Maxwell coach. With over 25 years of experience as a Growth Catalyst, working with Fortune 500 companies and solopreneurs, Rick is uniquely equipped to help individuals and organizations break through limiting beliefs and unleash their true identity. His upcoming book, “Born Limitless,” launching on May 7th, is already generating excitement as a potential bestseller.
Pre-order the book Born Limitless and get over $400 dollars in bonuses. bornlimitlessbook.com IG @ricktorrison DM a limiting belief you have struggled with to receive a framework for crushing and replacing any limiting beliefs.
In this episode of the “Circuit of Success,” Rick joins host Brett Gilliland to discuss the power of challenging limiting beliefs and taking action toward personal growth. Rick shares his journey of overcoming a challenging childhood and past abuse, highlighting the importance of resilience and continuous learning. They discuss the significance of aligning actions with beliefs, setting clear goals, and celebrating small victories along the way.
Through visualization, self-reflection, and motivation, individuals can navigate obstacles and achieve their desired outcomes. Listeners are invited to follow Rick on Instagram at @ricktorrison, where they can send him a direct message sharing a limiting belief they have struggled with. In response, Rick will provide a framework for crushing and replacing those beliefs. This personalized approach showcases Rick’s dedication to helping individuals overcome their internal obstacles and achieve their full potential. Don’t miss this inspiring episode as Rick Torrison shares his wisdom and expertise, guiding listeners toward their greatest success and significance.
Pre-order the book Born Limitless and get over $400 dollars in bonuses. bornlimitlessbook.com
IG @ricktorrison DM a limiting belief you have struggled with to receive a framework for crushing and replacing any limiting beliefs.

Apr 1, 2024 • 31min
Accidental Entrepreneurship: From Firefighter to SaaS Founder
In the world of entrepreneurship, some success stories begin with a carefully crafted business plan, while others unfold unexpectedly. Matt Verlaque, a former firefighter, found himself on the latter path when he “accidentally” started his first SaaS company, UpLaunch, in 2016. What started as a serendipitous journey eventually led to a successful acquisition in 2020. Today, Matt serves as the COO of SaaS Academy, where he helps aspiring SaaS founders build their dream businesses. In this episode of the “Circuit of Success” podcast, hosted by Brett Gilliland, Matt shares his remarkable story and offers valuable insights into accidental entrepreneurship.
Full Interview: Circuit of Success
From Firefighter to Founder:
After dedicating over a decade of his life to serving as a firefighter, Matt Verlaque never anticipated becoming an entrepreneur. However, fate had other plans for him. In 2016, Matt stumbled upon an opportunity that would change the course of his career. He founded UpLaunch, a SaaS company that quickly gained traction and eventually caught the attention of investors. Matt’s journey from firefighting to founding a successful business showcases the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship and the potential for unexpected success.
Lessons in Accidental Entrepreneurship:
Matt Verlaque’s accidental entrepreneurship journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring business owners. One key takeaway is the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities. Matt’s willingness to embrace the unknown and take a leap of faith led him to discover his entrepreneurial potential. Additionally, his story highlights the significance of adaptability and a growth mindset. As an accidental entrepreneur, Matt had to quickly learn and adapt to the challenges of running a business, showcasing the resilience required to thrive in the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship.
Leveraging Experience and Coaching:
Today, Matt Verlaque serves as the COO of SaaS Academy, where he helps aspiring SaaS founders navigate the complexities of building a successful business. With his experience as a founder and his passion for coaching, Matt provides invaluable guidance to over 500 SaaS entrepreneurs. His journey from accidental entrepreneur to seasoned business leader showcases the power of leveraging personal experiences to help others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Matt Verlaque’s accidental entrepreneurship journey serves as a reminder that success can come from unexpected places. His story highlights the importance of seizing opportunities, embracing change, and cultivating a growth mindset. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, Matt’s insights offer valuable lessons that can inspire and guide you towards your own entrepreneurial success. So, take a leap of faith, be open to the unexpected, and let the journey of accidental entrepreneurship unfold.

Mar 25, 2024 • 43min
Create a Healthy Lifestyle & Reverse Aging with Markus Kaulius
How do you develop a healthy lifestyle and stay young?
Brett Gilliland chats with Markus Kaulius to discuss how he has impacted the health of 10 million people and the loss of over 3 million pounds worldwide. In this episode of the Circuit of Success podcast, guest Markus shares the keys to staying young and healthy. He emphasizes the importance of exercise, non-negotiable habits, and a proactive mindset.
Markus highlights the power of choice, accountability, and surrounding oneself with a supportive circle of influence. He also discusses food preparation, realistic standards, and introduces his upcoming book, “Play a Bigger Game,” focused on mindset shifts and personal growth challenges. This episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for maintaining youth and prioritizing health.
Markus Kaulius is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of multiple 8 and 9-figure businesses. Over his 25-plus year career, he grew his supplement company, Magnum Nutraceuticals, 12 years ago from startup to $170 Million. As a thought leader in the industry, he advises multiple 8 & 9-figure companies on growth strategy and has been featured in major media such as PBS, Fox News, Apple TV and CNN. Markus’s name is now in the Guinness Record Book as he recently spoke at a conference on financial literacy which broke the attendance record.
With an online following of over 300K, Markus shares daily insights with his community spanning business strategy, mindset, health, and faith. Through his new venture, playabiggergame.com, Markus is bringing together the world’s greatest minds and sharing lessons learned from his entrepreneurial journey to help other high achievers break free from imbalance and feelings of discontent so they can find fulfillment beyond career success.
Check out the full interview on YouTube on the
Circuit of Success Podcast.

Mar 18, 2024 • 37min
The Underdog Story with Jesse LeBeau
In a recent episode of the Circuit of Success podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with motivational speaker Jesse LeBeau to delve into his remarkable underdog story and the transformative power of adversity. LeBeau shares how his parents’ unwavering encouragement and support played a pivotal role in helping him overcome challenges and pursue his passions. Throughout the conversation, LeBeau imparts valuable insights on resilience, confidence-building, and effective parenting strategies. Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Jesse LeBeau and uncover his advice for navigating life’s obstacles.
Overcoming Odds and Inspiring Others
From a young age, Jesse LeBeau faced numerous obstacles, but his determination and resilience propelled him forward. Growing up in Alaska, he defied the odds and inspired others with his unwavering spirit. LeBeau’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can have on those around them.
Street Ball with Iverson and Global Travels
LeBeau’s journey took an exciting turn when he had the opportunity to play street ball with basketball legend Allen Iverson. This experience not only fueled his passion for the sport but also opened doors to international tours and appearances in TV and film. LeBeau’s ability to turn setbacks into opportunities showcases his unwavering belief in the bounce-back theory.
Building Confidence and Handling Failure
LeBeau emphasizes the importance of building confidence and bouncing back quickly from defeat. He believes that instilling resilience in children is crucial for their personal growth and success. By teaching kids how to handle failure and view it as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock, parents can empower them to face challenges head-on and develop a growth mindset.
The Role of Parental Influence
LeBeau raises concerns about the lack of grit and role modeling among parents, which he believes contributes to teenagers wasting time on their phones. He emphasizes the significance of parental guidance, communication, and setting boundaries to shape children’s behaviors and attitudes. By being intentional role models and providing honest feedback, parents can instill discipline and productive habits in their children. Drawing from his own experiences, LeBeau offers valuable parenting advice. He emphasizes the need for parents to give themselves grace and set limits. By finding a balance between nurturing and providing structure, parents can create an environment that fosters resilience, confidence, and personal growth in their children.
Jesse LeBeau’s underdog story and motivational journey serve as an inspiration to all. Through his experiences, he highlights the power of adversity in shaping one’s character and the importance of parental influence in nurturing resilience and confidence in children. By setting restrictions on phone usage, teaching kids to handle failure, and instilling discipline, parents can guide their children towards success in today’s digital age. Let us embrace LeBeau’s wisdom and create an environment that empowers our children to overcome obstacles and thrive.
Check out the Underdog Story on YouTube: Interview
For more of Jesse LeBeau:
Inspirational Podcast: https://www.jesselebeau.com/podcast/
Visit www.jesselebeau.com
Welcome – theattitudeadvantage.com

Mar 11, 2024 • 55min
Getting in the Bourbon Business with Kenny Coleman
Kenny Coleman is the executive producer and co-host along with co-creator, Ryan Cecil of Bourbon Pursuit, the #1 whiskey podcast and the proclaimed “Official Podcast of Bourbon”. With 17 years of experience working in technology, he offers a perspective of industry disruption and what it means for bourbon. Kenny has been a presenter at Bourbon Society meetings, and conferences, a frequent guest on other podcasts, and a panel moderator at Bourbon & Beyond music festival. He got into bourbon back in the early days of college when it was handle of Kentucky Tavern and Very Old Barton on a weekly basis. The present-day culture has consumed his life.
Brett Gilliland sat down with Kenny, co-founder of Pursuit Spirits, to discuss his journey and the secrets behind their success. Starting with just $15,000, Kenny and his partner embarked on a mission to create unique blends and age whiskey for both quality and cost efficiency. They took ownership of the entire production process, carefully blending whiskey from various distilleries to create their signature product, Pursuit United. Throughout the podcast, Kenny emphasized the importance of passion, reinvestment, and strategic growth in building their brand. By reinvesting profits back into the business, they were able to expand their operations and reach a wider audience.
One of the key highlights of the podcast was Kenny’s discussion on their innovative approach to blending and production. By sourcing whiskey from different distilleries, they were able to create unique flavor profiles that set them apart from the competition. This allowed them to cater to a diverse range of consumer preferences and expand their customer base. Kenny also touched upon the evolving whiskey market and consumer behavior. He emphasized the significance of flavor profiling and how it plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining customers. By understanding the changing tastes and preferences of whiskey enthusiasts, Pursuit spirits has been able to stay ahead of the curve and adapt their offerings accordingly.
Like any entrepreneurial journey, Kenny and his partner faced their fair share of challenges. However, their unwavering passion and commitment to quality helped them overcome these obstacles. They also discussed the success of their podcast, which has become a valuable platform for sharing their knowledge and connecting with whiskey enthusiasts around the world. In conclusion, Kenny’s story is a testament to the power of passion, reinvestment, and strategic growth. By taking ownership of their production process, pursuing innovation in blending and production, and building strong relationships with their customers, Pursuit spirits has carved a niche for themselves in the competitive bourbon industry. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, there’s plenty to learn from Kenny’s journey.
Check out the full interview on YouTube:
Circuit of Success Podcast

Mar 4, 2024 • 1h
How Cuonzo Martin Became a Coaching Success
In this episode of The Circuit of Success Podcast, Cuonzo Martin returns for his second appearance, recounting his remarkable journey from a brief NBA career to becoming a respected basketball coach. Drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 1995, Martin’s path took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 1997, a battle he ultimately conquered. Following his recovery, he transitioned into coaching, starting as an assistant at West Lafayette High School before returning to Purdue University, where he had previously played, as an assistant coach. His coaching career then took him to Missouri State University, the University of Tennessee, and the University of California, Berkeley, before returning to the Midwest in 2017 to lead the University of Missouri’s basketball program until 2022, leaving a lasting impact on and off the court as a symbol of resilience and perseverance.
In this most recent episode, basketball coach Cuonzo Martin shares his remarkable journey, battling non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and the profound impact of family support and faith. Cuonzo’s story is one of resilience and strength, starting from his upbringing in East Saint Louis, where he experienced the power of community support and positive influences. Throughout the conversation, Cuonzo emphasizes the values of leadership, teamwork, and personal growth, drawing inspiration from his mother and other influential figures in his life. Cuonzo’s journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Despite facing the daunting challenge of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Cuonzo’s determination and unwavering faith propelled him forward.
He shares how the support of his family and community played a crucial role in his recovery and success. Cuonzo’s story serves as an inspiration to anyone facing adversity, reminding us that with resilience and a positive mindset, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Throughout the podcast episode, Cuonzo delves into the importance of leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. He shares how his upbringing and the positive influences in his life shaped his values and approach to coaching. Cuonzo’s insights on humility, perseverance, and leaving a meaningful legacy through storytelling resonate deeply.
His experiences highlight the power of education, history, and societal issues, as he advocates for diversity, inclusion, and unity within communities. Cuonzo Martin’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the impact of historical figures on society. His story inspires us to embrace resilience, strive for personal growth, and work towards creating a more inclusive and united world. Cuonzo’s insights serve as a reminder that with the support of loved ones, faith, and a strong sense of community, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams.
Check out the full video here: Circuit of Success Podcast

Feb 26, 2024 • 49min
Bringing Sports to St. Louis | Frank Viverito
Welcome back to our podcast, where we delve into the transformative power of sports on communities. In today’s episode, we’re honored to have Frank Viverito, the former president of the St. Louis Sports Commission, sharing his invaluable insights on how sports have shaped and revitalized the city of St. Louis over the years. For over two decades, Frank Viverito spearheaded the St. Louis Sports Commission, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s sports landscape. As the Chief Advisory Officer post-retirement, his passion for sports and dedication to community development continue to inspire.
While St. Louis has long been hailed as a “baseball town,” Viverito’s leadership transcended this stereotype. Through strategic initiatives and tireless efforts, he diversified the sports scene, attracting a myriad of national events to the city. From basketball tournaments to gymnastics championships, St. Louis became a hub for sporting excellence under his stewardship. During our conversation, Viverito underscored the profound economic impact of sports. Beyond mere entertainment, major sporting events serve as catalysts for economic growth. The influx of visitors not only fills stadiums but also energizes local businesses, hotels, and restaurants. This symbiotic relationship between sports and the economy has been pivotal in revitalizing neighborhoods and fostering job creation.
Frank Viverito’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. His unwavering commitment to sports development earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the prestigious Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Such recognition is a testament to his enduring legacy and the transformative power of sports on communities. As we reflect on our conversation with Frank Viverito, it’s evident that sports serve as more than mere entertainment—they’re vehicles for positive change. Whether it’s fostering economic growth or fostering a sense of community pride, the impact of sports on cities like St. Louis is profound and far-reaching.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Frank Viverito for sharing his expertise and passion for sports. His visionary leadership has not only elevated St. Louis onto the national stage but has also inspired communities worldwide to harness the power of sports for social and economic advancement. Join us in our next episode as we continue to explore the transformative role of sports in shaping our world. Until then, stay tuned, stay inspired, and keep embracing the power of sports!
Check out the video interview HERE!

Feb 19, 2024 • 1h 4min
Lessons in Leadership from a Former Ranger & Green Beret | Phil Kornachuk
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an elite military leader? Or how the lessons learned in the military can be applied to everyday life and business? In this podcast episode, host Brett Gilliland interviews Phil Kornachuk, a former member of the Second Battalion Rangers and Green Berets for 22 years. Phil’s journey from a young Canadian recruit to a highly respected leader in the US Army is filled with valuable insights and lessons that can inspire and empower individuals and organizations.
One of the recurring themes in Phil’s story is the power of belief and opportunity. Throughout his career, Phil had leaders who saw his potential and encouraged him to apply for officer training. Their belief in him gave him the confidence to pursue his dreams and excel in his military career. Phil’s experiences highlight the importance of believing in oneself and giving others the chance to grow and succeed.
Phil’s time in the military taught him valuable lessons about leadership and bravery. He emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with values and facing challenges head-on. Whether it’s in combat or everyday life, Phil believes that true bravery comes from staying committed to one’s values and taking calculated risks. His experiences in the military have shaped his perspective on success and bravery, and he now uses his expertise to help others become better leaders.
Another key takeaway from Phil’s story is the significance of planning and execution. Phil emphasizes the need for a clear purpose, a well-thought-out plan, and thorough rehearsals to avoid catastrophic failures. Whether it’s in military operations or business endeavors, having a solid plan and executing it consistently is crucial for success. Phil’s insights on planning and execution can be applied to various aspects of life, from personal goals to professional projects.
Phil believes in investing in oneself and continually evolving to become a better version of oneself. He emphasizes the value of fundamentals and how even elite organizations still focus on them with precision and intensity. Phil also discusses the importance of having a vision, a plan, and the right mindset and executing them consistently. He encourages business leaders to focus on their why and the impact they want to have, rather than just the bottom line. Phil’s journey from military service to starting his own business is a testament to the power of personal growth and evolution.
Phil Kornachuk’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of leadership and personal growth. His experiences in the military have shaped his perspective on success, bravery, and the importance of aligning actions with values. Through his company, Stonewater Training, Phil now helps individuals and businesses develop high-performance leadership skills. Whether it’s through believing in potential, planning and execution, or investing in personal growth, Phil’s insights can inspire and empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential.
Check out the video interview on YouTube here: