
This is the Way Podcast
We are Artin and Michael, and this podcast is dedicated to aspiring entrepreneurs and founders. We focus on entrepreneurship, career growth, and side hustles with a mission to empower you to know more, do more, and be more. Think of us as your guides, sharing four decades of experience working at top-tier companies like Disney and Netflix while pursuing our own entrepreneurial ventures. But we won’t be the only ones sharing insights—our impressive guests, who’ve forged their own paths, will inspire you to do the same. No matter where you are on your entrepreneurial journey, subscribe and join the ride!
Latest episodes

May 9, 2025 • 1h 5min
HHow AI is Shaping the Future of Sales (40% Time Saved & 2X Revenue) | EP 94
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📌 Connect with Frank - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankbastone/
📌 Connect with Jake - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankbastone/
📌 Connect with Agentic Brain - https://www.agenticbrain.com/
📌 Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes
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📌 Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/
📌 Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/
Unlock the future of sales with AI! In this power-packed episode, we dive deep into how Artificial Intelligence is transforming sales teams and driving unprecedented results. Frank, a seasoned sales leader, and Jake, an AI development expert and the founders of Aentic Brain, share their insider secrets on leveraging AI to:
🚀 Boost sales productivity
⏰ Save valuable time on admin tasks (up to 40%!) [cite: 1, 5, 11]
💰 Increase revenue and close more deals
🤝 Build stronger customer relationships
🤖 Automate key sales processes
🎯 And much more!
They reveal how AI isn't about replacing salespeople, but about empowering them to become "superhero" sellers. You'll learn actionable strategies, real-world case studies, and the truth about AI's capabilities in sales. If you're a sales professional, sales manager, or business leader, this video is your roadmap to mastering AI in sales and staying ahead of the curve.
✨ Don't miss out on these game-changing insights! ✨
#AISales #SalesAutomation #AITools #SalesProductivity #SalesTips #BusinessGrowth #FutureOfSales #SalesTechnology #CRM #LeadGeneration #AenticBrain

May 1, 2025 • 51min
The $10B Ideas at the Intersection of AI and Storytelling (From a Hollywood Insider) | EP 93
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📌 Connect with Seth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethhallen/
📌 https://hallstoneventures.com/
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In this special episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Seth Hallen — a visionary in the Media & Entertainment Technology space, an AI & MediaTech angel investor, and a trusted advisor helping shape the future of storytelling through innovation.
With 25+ years of experience across venture capital, media tech leadership, and AI-driven storytelling, Seth has built a legacy of enabling creators, founders, and startups to thrive at the intersection of creativity and technology. His deep-rooted passion for narrative — sparked by childhood movie experiences — continues to guide his mission to bring groundbreaking tech into the hands of storytellers. From the evolution of MediaTech to the emerging influence of AI in entertainment, Seth dives into what’s next for creators, how investors are thinking about innovation, and why storytelling will always be at the heart of progress.
🔹 25+ years in media & entertainment tech
🔹 AI & MediaTech angel investor & VC advisor
🔹 Former CEO & board member in leading M&E companies
🔹 Passionate about storytelling + tech evolution
🔹 Insight into funding, innovation, and the future of media
Get ready for a deeply insightful and forward-looking conversation with Seth Hallen as we explore how AI is reshaping storytelling, what founders must know to succeed in MediaTech, and how creativity and tech can co-exist for the future of content.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
-The current struggles of the media & entertainment industry
-Why YouTube and Netflix are evolving differently
-The real impact of AI on VFX and storytelling How creators and technologists can collaborate better
-Why human creativity still matters (even in an AI-driven future)
-The biggest opportunities in MediaTech right now
-What the future of content creation really looks like
AI in filmmaking, Hollywood vs AI, Netflix AI strategy, storytelling and AI, VFX future, media tech trends 2025, entertainment industry insights, AI in VFX, Seth Hallen podcast, creative tech podcast, AI in entertainment, YouTube media strategy, future of storytelling
#AIinMedia #NetflixVsYouTube #Hollywood2025 #FutureOfStorytelling #VFXRevolution #AIvsCreativity #MediaTech #ContentCreationFuture #SethHallen #ThisIsTheWayPodcast
[00:00] Intro
[02:00] Struggles in the Media Industry
[09:50] YouTube vs. Netflix Trends
[17:50] Biggest Industry Opportunities
[22:40] The Role of VFX in Entertainment
[30:30] AI as a Creative Tool
[35:55] Humans vs. AI in Storytelling
[40:25] Describing Ourselves Through Content

Apr 24, 2025 • 58min
What ADHD Entrepreneurs Can Teach Everyone | EP 92
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📌 Connect with Ian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-tenenbaum
📌Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes
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📌Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/
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In this powerful episode of This is the Way Podcast, we're joined by Ian Tenenbaum — a seasoned entrepreneur, ADHD mentor, and startup veteran with over 20 years of hands-on experience in building, scaling, and selling businesses.
Ian has helped countless entrepreneurs with ADHD get organized, stay focused, and follow through — all while navigating the rollercoaster world of startups. From leading two companies to the Inc. 500 list to securing deals with top Fortune 500 brands, Ian’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. In this episode, Ian gets real about the challenges behind the scenes — including the battles most founders don’t talk about. Whether you're neurodivergent or just looking to gain clarity and structure in your entrepreneurial path, Ian’s approach to mindful productivity and focus will change the way you work.
🔹 Helped ADHD founders stay focused & finish
🔹 20+ years of experience in startups
🔹 Led 2 companies to the Inc. 500
🔹 Built, scaled & sold multiple businesses
🔹 Real strategies for neurodiverse entrepreneurs
Get ready for a raw, honest, and uplifting conversation as Ian shares tools, lessons, and real-life strategies to help entrepreneurs gain clarity, create a plan, and follow through — even when it’s hard.
01:00] Intro
06:10] The Turning Point
09:40] an’s Breakthrough Journey
16:00] Actionable Steps for ADHD Entrepreneurs
22:48] Leading a Team with ADHD
30:22] Mindset & Management Tips
38:00] Thoughts on Elon Musk & ADHD
47:00] Finding Clarity
#ProductivityTips #BusinessGrowth #PodcastClips #MentalHealthAwareness #IanTenenbaum #ADHDEntrepreneur #StartupMindset #FocusHacks #FounderJourney #NeurodivergentSuccess

Apr 17, 2025 • 1h 3min
How to Craft Irresistible Offers that 10X Your Pipeline | EP 91
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Help us get to 10,000 subscribes.
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Connect with Jay - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymelone
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In this power-packed episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Jay Melone—founder of the “Wedge Offers” framework, a business strategist who’s helping B2B consultants attract dream clients, increase monthly revenue, and become the go-to expert in their niche. Jay built a 35-person consultancy—only to find himself drowning in work and disconnected from what truly mattered. But instead of burning out, he reinvented the way consultants grow and sell by developing a scalable, simplified system that builds authority and automates client acquisition. Now, he’s sharing how Wedge Offers are changing the game for consultants and service-based businesses in 2025 and beyond.
🔹 Creator of the Wedge Offers Framework
🔹 Built & scaled a 35-person consultancy
🔹 Expert in client acquisition & offer positioning
🔹 Helping B2B consultants simplify, scale & thrive
🔹 Real strategies to escape the freelancer trap and own your niche
Whether you're a coach, consultant, freelancer, or agency owner—this episode will unlock the mindset, models, and messaging needed to stop chasing leads and start attracting them on autopilot.
🎧 Tune in now for behind-the-scenes strategies and expert business clarity with Jay Melone!
Sign up to the podcast newsletter and get insights from each episode sent to your inbox. https://thevelocitylabs.com/this-is-the-way-newsletter Help us get to 10,000 subscribes. Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael Connect with Jay - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymelone Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes Book free 1:1 with Artin - https://calendly.com/thisisthewayshow/1-1-with-artin Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/ Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/ In this power-packed episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Jay Melone—founder of the “Wedge Offers” framework, a business strategist who’s helping B2B consultants attract dream clients, increase monthly revenue, and become the go-to expert in their niche. Jay built a 35-person consultancy—only to find himself drowning in work and disconnected from what truly mattered. But instead of burning out, he reinvented the way consultants grow and sell by developing a scalable, simplified system that builds authority and automates client acquisition. Now, he’s sharing how Wedge Offers are changing the game for consultants and service-based businesses in 2025 and beyond. 🔹 Creator of the Wedge Offers Framework 🔹 Built & scaled a 35-person consultancy 🔹 Expert in client acquisition & offer positioning 🔹 Helping B2B consultants simplify, scale & thrive 🔹 Real strategies to escape the freelancer trap and own your niche Whether you're a coach, consultant, freelancer, or agency owner—this episode will unlock the mindset, models, and messaging needed to stop chasing leads and start attracting them on autopilot. 🎧 Tune in now for behind-the-scenes strategies and expert business clarity with Jay Melone!
#ConsultingSuccess #B2BOffers #JayMelone #ServiceBusinessTips #WedgeOffers #PodcastInterview #BusinessBurnout #AgencyOwnerLife #SalesWithoutSelling #entrepreneurjourney
[00:00] Intro
[01:33] Jay’s Journey So Far
[10:21] Common Business Challenges
[18:38] Jay’s Unique Approach
[21:02] Creating Offers for Clients
[29:43] Why Your Offer is Just a Product
[32:00] Future of Sales & Positioning
[39:36] How AI is Shaping Business
[50:50] Skills You Need in Consulting

Apr 3, 2025 • 1h 6min
How to WIN on LinkedIn in 2025 | AI & Content Strategies with Lara Acosta | EP 90
Repost below Linkedin post and subscribe to this podcast to enter for a chance to win a FREE 1:1 session with Lara who will help you take your Linkedin game to the next level. Winner announced on Linkedin on April 11.
Linkedin post - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/artinnazarian_i-caught-up-with-lara-acosta-over-dinner-activity-7313576628494770176-zU7O?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAGYG6YBGjKoV_OU09RpUiQvCAG0LAI-wGA
In this special episode of This is the Way Podcast, we’re joined by Lara Acosta — an entrepreneur, LinkedIn personal branding expert, and a Forbes-featured strategist helping individuals grow their online presence and build profitable businesses.
Lara has empowered 700+ professionals to craft compelling personal brands that drive impact and income. With features in Forbes, Kajabi, and Semrush, she has solidified her position as a LinkedIn thought leader, helping entrepreneurs leverage content to create authority, attract clients, and scale their businesses.
From AI-powered content strategies to unlocking LinkedIn's algorithm for growth, Lara shares her expert insights on how to thrive in 2025 and beyond. Whether you're an entrepreneur, content creator, or business professional, this episode is packed with high-value tips and actionable strategies to elevate your LinkedIn game.
🔹 Featured on Forbes, Kajabi & Semrush
🔹 Helped 700+ professionals build personal brands
🔹 Entrepreneur scaling businesses through LinkedIn
🔹 AI-driven content strategies for brand growth
🔹 Proven LinkedIn strategies for visibility & engagement
Get ready for an eye-opening and insightful conversation with Lara Acosta as we explore LinkedIn success, AI content strategies, and how to turn engagement into business opportunities.
Connect with Lara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laraacostar/
Sign up to the podcast newsletter and get insights from each episode sent to your inbox. https://thevelocitylabs.com/this-is-the-way-newsletter
Help us get to 10,000 subscribes. Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes Book free 1:1 with Artin - https://calendly.com/thisisthewayshow/1-1-with-artin Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/ Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How Lara Acosta built a personal brand that attracts clients
The best LinkedIn content strategies for 2025
How AI is transforming content creation & LinkedIn growth
The biggest mistakes people make on LinkedIn
How to create AI-generated content that feels authentic
The best way to convert LinkedIn engagement into customers
LinkedIn vs. YouTube – which platform is better for personal branding?
How books, AI, and social media will shape the next generation

Mar 27, 2025 • 50min
How AI Took His LinkedIn to 50K+ Followers in 1 Year | EP 89
Sign up to the podcast newsletter and get insights from each episode sent to your inbox. https://thevelocitylabs.com/this-is-the-way-newsletter Help us get to 10,000 subscribes. Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael Connect with Charlie - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-hills/ Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes Book free 1:1 with Artin - https://calendly.com/thisisthewayshow/1-1-with-artin Follow Artin @https://www.linkedin.com/in/artinnazarian/ Follow Michael @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmichaelmerrill/
In this special episode of This is the way Podcast, we’re joined by Charlie Hills — a LinkedIn growth strategist and a pioneer in AI-powered content creation. Charlie has quickly emerged as a go-to expert for professionals and creators looking to scale their LinkedIn presence using smart, efficient content systems. In under a year, he built a following of over 50,000 and generated more than 9 million impressions — all by harnessing the power of AI to supercharge his content strategy. From high-performing newsletters and engaging carousels to eye-catching posts and visuals, Charlie is redefining what’s possible with AI-driven personal branding. He’s here to share the strategies, tools, and mindset behind his explosive LinkedIn growth — and how you can do it too.
✨ Grew 50K+ followers on LinkedIn in under a year
✨ 9M+ impressions using AI-powered content
✨ Expert in LinkedIn newsletters, carousels & visual storytelling
✨ Helps professionals scale content with ease and impact
✨ Breaking down complex AI tools into practical growth hacks
Get ready for an insightful, actionable, and inspiring conversation with Charlie Hills — as we dive into LinkedIn growth, content strategy, and the future of AI in personal branding.
📌 What You’ll Learn: How Charlie Hills used AI to grow his LinkedIn to 50K+ followers in under a year His exact content creation strategy using AI tools The biggest mistakes people make using AI for content How to write better posts, comments, carousels & newsletters with AI Tools Charlie uses daily to save time & boost performance How to analyze content performance & improve consistently The role of consistency vs. quality in content growth Secrets behind what content type works best (text vs video vs images) Tips to schedule content effectively without burnout Powerful advice for beginners and creators struggling to grow.
[00:00] Intro
[02:30] How AI is helping individuals create content
[09:30] Common mistakes people make using AI
[11:55] Charlie’s content creation strategy [
22:55] Favorite tools and apps used
[35:45] Best-performing content types and analysis [
36:50] Image vs. text vs. video content – what works better?
[45:40] Advice for aspiring LinkedIn creators
#LinkedInGrowth #AIContentCreation #CharlieHills #ContentWithAI #LinkedInMarketing #AIForCreators #ContentStrategy #LinkedInTips #PersonalBranding #LinkedInInfluencer #GrowWithAI #SocialMediaGrowth #ContentCreationJourney

Mar 14, 2025 • 51min
Mistakes That Are Killing Your Growth on YouTube in 2025 | EP 88
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Connect with Andrew @https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrandrewmurdoch/
Andrew's Youtube Business Accelerator - https://www.skool.com/youtube-business-accelerator/about
Learn more at ytera.com
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In this special episode of This is the way Podcast, we welcome Andrew Murdoch — a visionary YouTube Business Strategist and the driving force behind helping brands scale their impact through powerful video content. As the founder of a leading YouTube marketing agency, Andrew and his team specialize in crafting compelling educational content and data-driven strategies that elevate businesses in the health, wealth, and lifestyle industries. With a focus on value-driven storytelling and platform optimization, Andrew empowers brands to connect with their audience and grow their presence authentically.
From video strategy to production and channel management, Andrew’s holistic approach helps businesses transform their YouTube channels into high-impact marketing assets—while freeing up their time to focus on what they do best.
📌 What You’ll Learn: YouTube Content Strategy That Works How to Pick the Right Niche Secrets to Structuring High-Impact Videos Long-form vs Short-form: What’s Better? How ChatGPT is Changing Content Creation Podcasting + YouTube = Growth Opportunity Avoiding Common Mistakes on YouTube
#YouTubegrowth #contentstrategy #YouTubemarketing #andrewmurdoch #priyankashindepodcast #longformcontent #shortformvideos #ChatGPTForYouTube #podcastmarketing #videocontenttips #contentcreationstrategy #YouTubeTips2025 #HowToGrowOnYouTube #nicheselection #videomarketing

Mar 7, 2025 • 49min
AI Agents, Automation & The Future of Business (Must-Know Insights) | EP 87
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Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael
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Connect with Grant @https://www.linkedin.com/in/grant-hushek/
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What if you could reclaim 20+ hours a week without sacrificing business growth? The secret isn’t working harder—it’s working smarter!
In this episode, we sit down with Grant Hushek, founder of GrantBot, a workflow automation agency that helps businesses streamline operations, boost productivity, and unlock massive growth with AI and automation.
Grant shares insights on: ✅ The 4 key areas every business should automate ✅ How to avoid the #1 mistake that kills automation projects ✅ The no-code tools (Zapier, Make, Airtable) he swears by ✅ How AI is revolutionizing workflow automation
#Automation #AI #BusinessGrowth #Productivity #WorkflowAutomation #Entrepreneurship #scaleyourbusiness
Chapters [00:00] Intro [05:54] The Importance of Process Before Automation [15:09] The Role of AI in Automation [17:57] Chaining AI Prompts for Enhanced Automation [20:58] The Future of AI Agents in Business [28:10] Enhancing Content Quality with AI Tools [33:05] Building Effective Workflows with Automation [44:40] Rethinking SaaS: Results as a Service [45:21] Innovating with a Beginner's Mindset

Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 17min
How to CRUSH Google ads in 2025 (without wasting $$$) | EP 86
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Help us get to 10,000 subscribes. Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael S
ubscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes
Connect with John @https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjhorn1/
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🔗 Learn more about Stub Group: stubgroup.com
Most businesses lose money on Google Ads because they get it wrong. Don't be one of them! In this episode, John Horn, CEO of Stub Group, reveals the biggest mistakes businesses make and how to avoid them. Learn how to optimize your ad spend, target the right audience, and ensure your ads actually convert. Whether you're a small business or a growing startup, these insights will help you win with Google Ads.
Hashtags: #GoogleAds #AdSpending #MarketingTips #Entrepreneur #PPC #PaidAdvertising #StartupGrowth #BusinessTips #ROI
Chapters [00:00] Intro [10:12] Common Pitfalls [15:19] Aligning Ad Strategy with Business Goals [22:37] The Importance of Targeted Advertising [23:21] DIY Advertising Tools for Beginners [30:06] Budgeting for Google Ads [31:25]Understanding Google Ads and YouTube [32:58] Key Metrics for Success [35:37] Caution in Advertising [40:10] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs [41:37] Leadership Lessons Learned [43:24] Valuable Resources for Growth

Feb 20, 2025 • 51min
Branding for Startups - How-to Guide from Former Disney Executive | Ep 85
Sign up to the podcast newsletter and get insights from each episode sent to your inbox. https://thevelocitylabs.com/this-is-the-way-newsletter Help us get to 10,000 subscribes. Subscribe to @ThisIstheWaywithArtinMichael Subscribe to the shorts channel @FounderBytes Connect with Eze @https://www.linkedin.com/in/ezequielabramzon/
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Ezequiel Abramzon is the founder of LALO, a strategic brand consultancy helping startups and entrepreneurs achieve clarity and momentum. With over 22 years at The Walt Disney Company, Ezequiel led digital innovation, creative direction, and brand strategy across global markets, building multi-million-dollar businesses in digital, entertainment, and technology.
After leaving corporate life, he dedicated himself to mentoring and advising founders, developing the Epicenter™ methodology—a framework that puts customers at the heart of the brand and the brand at the heart of the business. Passionate about storytelling, branding, and long-term strategy, Ezequiel now works with early-stage startups to craft compelling brand identities that drive real impact.
What do Disney, startups, and personal branding have in common? Ezequiel Abramzon shares his experience leading at Disney for 22 years and how he applies those lessons to help startups succeed. Perfect for founders seeking clarity and a competitive edge.
Books recommended during the episode
https://a.co/d/4pFQkNw
https://a.co/d/8DNg24M
Chapters [00:00] Intro [02:07] From Disney to Entrepreneurship [12:06] Building Teams for Success [14:30] Working with Startups [17:36] Branding Lessons from Disney [20:48] Branding for Early Stage Startups [23:46] Common Mistakes in Startup Branding [27:15] The Role of Personal Branding in Startups [35:10] Finding Clarity in Brand Strategy [49:34] Advice for Early-Stage Founders