Real Business Connections

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #29 with Stan Phelps.Most businesses lose their edge by imitating competitors instead of embracing their uniqueness. One powerful way to stand out is to do less of what everyone else does and focus on what truly sets your brand apart, creating a lasting impact.In this exclusive ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode from the Growgetters ONLY Inner Circle, we are thrilled to have Stan Phelps, a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, marketing strategist, customer experience expert and author of the Goldfish Series of books.Stan dives into the concept of Lagniappe, the idea of giving a little extra that leaves a lasting impression. Moreover, he shares the strategies he uses to ensure that the lessons from his talks continue to resonate with audiences long after the talks are over.As the conversation unfolds, he explains how to use Sampling in business effectively. He also explores the Purple Goldfish concept and how to ensure your unique offering aligns with the needs and desires of your ideal client.Finally, he breaks down what makes workshops successful and the common mistakes to avoid. He also shares insights from Pink Goldfish on embracing and owning your unique qualities.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Introduction[01:15] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com[01:46] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/[06:31] What is Lagniappe?[14:34] Lasting Lessons[20:41] Sampling[22:41] Purple Goldfish[26:24] Connecting with Clients[36:20] Workshops[44:11] Embrace Your Uniqueness[49:36] Connect with Stan•  Website: https://stanphelps.com/Lagniappe/Key Takeaways:  • Referral clients stay longer as customers and spend up to twice as much over their lifetime compared to non-referral clients. ~Stan Phelps [19:28]• On average, people who are already working with you know only 30% of your total capabilities. ~Stan Phelps [20:21]• Sampling is the idea of giving your customers additional taste and letting them try out an additional capability. ~Stan Phelps [20:41]• If you’re not pissing some people off, you’re probably not relevant to many. ~Stan Phelps [23:13]• Take care of the customers you have, and they will bring you the clients and valuable customers you want. ~Stan Phelps [29:25]• One way to stand out is by doing less of what everyone else does. ~Stan Phelps [45:58]• You begin to achieve success when you focus and become known for something. ~Stan Phelps [46:35]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. The Goldfish Series: https://stanphelps.com/books/Keep In Touch with Stan Phelps:Website: https://stanphelps.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanphelps/Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/PurpleGoldfishBooksTwitter: https://twitter.com/StanPhelpsPG—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Rochester Business Connections Episode #151 with Jesse Cruz.Have you ever experienced stage fright? That sudden wave of panic just before you face an audience, when your heart races and your mind goes blank. It can make even the most prepared person doubt themselves, yet it’s not a sign of weakness.Today, Jesse Cruz shares tips on how we can deal with stage fright. Jesse Cruz is an internationally recognized, award winning speaker, best selling author, and coach specializing in speaker development. He is also the founder and CEO of Merge Worldwide.One powerful lesson Jesse shared came straight from his military experience: “Mission First.” This principle isn’t just for the battlefield; clarity on your mission and the people you’re serving is the foundation for success, both in business and when stepping up as a speaker. Keeping your mission in mind ensures that every decision and action moves you and your audience forward.According to Jesse, your phone should be your stage. It doesn’t matter how many followers you have; it’s a great starting point. You can go live on any of your social media platforms, for instance, once a week. Always look at it like a stage and never forget to put your audience at the center of your talk. Jesse also shares actionable tips on how to choose a topic and manage being on a physical stage.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:29] Communication leadership in the military[02:37] Keynote speaking[05:53] Knowing your audience[07:32] Signature talks[11:21] On the spot workshop[13:44] How Jesse got into communication[15:42] Rejection[18:24] Finding your tribe[22:50] Playing small[26:11] Don’t mute your voice[26:58] Criticism[30:32] Your phone, your stage[33:18] Getting on a physical stage[38:54] Connect with Jesse CruzFacebook: https://web.facebook.com/jesse.cruz.5/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-cruz-133714164/ [41:58] Partner with Jesse[42:58] Choosing a topicKey Takeaways:  • I believe if you want to go faster, you hire a master that can help you and has already walked the path that you've been on. ~Jesse Cruz [04:34] • Sometimes speakers get on stage, and they want to make the talk all about themselves, and it's not really helping. ~Jesse Cruz [04:52] • “Not every stage opportunity is your opportunity.” ~Jesse Cruz [07:48] • When someone's building out a signature talk, they want to focus on the universal principles that most humanity can agree upon. ~Jesse Cruz [09:44] • “Never take criticism from someone you wouldn't take advice from.” ~Jesse Cruz [27:51] • The people who are actually very successful, their criticism does not come from a place of envy or hatred. If they were to give you criticism, it's constructive criticism. ~Jesse Cruz [28:14] • “When you are building a business, don't listen to the people closest to you. Listen to the people closest to your goal.” ~Jesse Cruz [28:55] • “You actually have a stage in your pocket everywhere you go, because you have a phone.” ~Jesse Cruz [30:49] • “You don't have to have this crazy inspiring story to have a great message to share.” ~Ben Albert [40:46] • “Painful lessons usually turn into profitable lessons.” ~Jesse Cruz [43:59]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Erica Mallett Episode: https://realbusinessconnections.com/podcast/ericamallett/ Keep In Touch with Jesse Cruz:Website: https://mergeworldwide.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesse.cruz.5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-cruz-133714164 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessecruzspeaks/ —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –RBC is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #141 with Richard Moore. The majority of people join LinkedIn to find new clients, yet many struggle to convert their engagement into actual business. You may be getting likes, follows, and comments, but are you actually converting them into sales?In this episode, Ben Albert speaks with Richard Moore, a conversion coach who specializes in helping coaches and consultants convert on LinkedIn through their content. He is also the founder of LinkedIn Client Accelerator and the Art of Sell.Richard discusses why spam happens, how to minimize it, and the best ways to reach out to potential connections. He also dives into cold-selling strategies and shares how to comment on LinkedIn in ways that resonate with your audience.As the conversation unfolds, he explains why copying successful LinkedIn personalities won’t get you the results you want and how to develop your own authentic presence that stands out.Lastly, Richard gives an inside look at his Art of Sell Membership program and how it benefits members. He also shares practical sales conversation tips you can start using right away to engage and confidently convert prospects.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [01:00] LinkedIn Spam[11:12] Cold Selling[18:53] Commenting on LinkedIn[33:00] Copying Won’t Work[43:08] Art of Sell[50:46] Join Art of Sell• Website: https://www.therichardmoore.com/artofsell• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjamesmoore/[52:27] Sales Conversation TipKey Takeaways:  • No one likes to be sold to, but they love shopping with their friends. ~Richard Moore [11:43]• The main reason most people join LinkedIn is to acquire new clients. ~Richard Moore [22:42]• LinkedIn deals originate from individual interactions, not from high-volume activity. ~Richard Moore [26:00]• Having money does not make the customer the prize. You are the prize because your role is to solve their problem with your solution. ~Richard Moore [53:25]• In sales, embodying your role as the expert is what closes deals. ~Richard Moore [53:36]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Justin Welsh2. Alex Hormozi3. Chris Van VlietKeep In Touch with Richard Moore:Website: https://www.therichardmoore.com/Art of Sell: https://www.therichardmoore.com/artofsellLinkedIn Client Accelerator: https://www.therichardmoore.com/linkedin-client-acceleratorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjamesmoore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.richard.moore/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@richardmoore8614/featured—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #28 with Heather Parady.Many entrepreneurs struggle to break through the market noise and create content that truly resonates with their audience. However, by leveraging the art of storytelling in content creation, they can share their stories in a compelling way that captivates audiences and builds meaningful connections.“In this exclusive ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode from the GrowGetters Only community, we learn from Heather Parady, a short-form video strategist, master storyteller, and host of Unconventional Leaders.Heather dives into the psychology behind viral storytelling and shares insights on crafting videos that resonate with audiences. She discusses the origin of her ideas, what fuels her creativity, and how her unique personality influences the content she creates.Heather also provides practical guidance on getting started with storytelling through videos and navigating negative feedback. Additionally, she shares the tools she uses to simplify content creation and discusses how her videos impact her business.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Intro[01:32] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com[02:06] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/[06:40] Ideas[11:55] Personality[18:33] Inauthentic Guests[21:15] Storytelling[25:34] Negative Feedback[25:59] Website: https://www.heatherparady.com/untestimonials[40:08] Impact[41:30] Tools[45:14] Media company[49:31] Connect with Heather• Blog: https://www.heatherparady.com/blogKey Takeaways:  • “If you have no tolerance for failure, you won’t create anything new.” ~Brené Brown [04:12]• “Energy is the most undeniable thing. You can’t fake it.” ~Heather Parady [13:29]• There is nothing more attractive or magnetic than being comfortable in your own skin. ~Heather Parady [13:44]• Use Negative Feedback Objectively. ~Heather Parady [44:35]• Sometimes you need to take a step back in order to move forward. ~Heather Parady [47:19]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Tommy RobinsonKeep In Touch with Heather Parady:Website: https://www.heatherparady.com/Podcast: https://www.heatherparady.com/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherParadyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/Blog: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #140 with Jeff C West.Many people hold misconceptions about money and wealth without realizing how these beliefs shape their decisions and limit their potential. Understanding and confronting these misconceptions is the first step toward true financial independence.Today, we are joined by Jeff C. West, renowned speaker and international authority on sales & leadership, and acclaimed author of business parables including The Unexpected Tour Guide, Said the Lady with the Blue Hair, Streetwise to Saleswise, and his most recent book, The Hidden Heist: Stop Robbing Yourself of Lasting Wealth.In the episode, Jeff shares the inspiration behind his latest book, The Hidden Heist, and gives listeners a glimpse of some of its powerful insights. He opens up about his writing journey, explaining how he got started, why he writes in parables, and where his ideas come from.Jeff also shares key sales lessons and uncovers common misconceptions about money and wealth, showing how these beliefs subtly shape our decisions.Finally, Jeff introduces his Fusion Point concept, a framework built on aligning emotion and logic to boost sales and client retention. In addition, he shares practical tips for effective business conversations.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [01:27] The Hidden Heist[08:30] Sales Lessons[11:57] Money Misconceptions[16:13] Books: https://jeffcwest.com/books/[19:45] Journey Into Writing[27:13] Books in Progress[33:43] FusionPoint[45:43] Connect with Jeff• Website: https://jeffcwest.com/• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffCWestAuthorSpeaker• How Ordinary People Become Millionaires: https://bit.ly/48uMqOB[47:27] Business ConversationsKey Takeaways:  • “Sales presentations make people talk, while sales conversations make people ask questions and listen.” ~Jeff C West [09:01]• Before anyone can change their actions, they must first change their mindset. ~Jeff C West [11:24]• “Every decision is a combination of logic and emotion. The decisions we make often depend on which emotion is in the lead.” ~Jeff C West [35:17]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Michael Connelly2. The Hidden Heist: https://jeffcwest.com/thehiddenheist/3. Streetwise to Saleswise: https://jeffcwest.com/saleswise/4. The Unexpected Tour Guide: https://jeffcwest.com/tutgbook/5. Said the Lady with the Blue Hair: https://jeffcwest.com/bluehairbook/6. How I Raised Myself From Failure To Success In Selling: https://bit.ly/4ieJkS07. The Lincoln Lawyer: https://bit.ly/44bwn5Z8. The Case for Christ: https://bit.ly/48i79E39. Endless Referrals: https://bit.ly/4p8ytvSKeep In Touch with Jeff C West:Website: https://jeffcwest.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcwest/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffcwest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.west.330YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffCWestAuthorSpeakerBooks: https://jeffcwest.com/books/X: https://x.com/JeffCWestAuthor—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #139 with Anika Jackson.Artificial Intelligence (AI) is influencing nearly every industry and transforming the way we live, work, and connect with the world. Nevertheless, it’s essential to understand that AI is designed to enhance and support human efforts, not replace them.Joining us on the show is Anika Jackson, a professor at USC Annenberg specializing in digital media management and social media, where she pioneered an AI-first curriculum. She is also the founder and podcast host of Your Brand Amplified®.Anika shares insights on the latest trends in teaching AI. She explains what artificial intelligence is here to do for us, where it’s headed, and how its relationship with humans is evolving. She also opens up about her bold decision to leave her full-time job to pursue podcasting.Anika takes us through her podcasting journey, explaining why she started Your Brand Amplified®, the motivation behind it, and the strategies she’s using to grow and succeed in the podcasting world. For a fun twist, the episode wraps up with an AI-generated rap recap that creatively summarizes the key insights from the conversation.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [01:08] Trends in Teaching AI[08:48] From Underdog to Empowering Growth-Minded Leaders:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKvTFcaQaBU[10:34] Understanding AI[20:50] Quitting Full-Time Job[25:48] Podcasting Journey[41:00] Podcasting Goals[43:11] From Underdog to Empowering Growth-Minded Leaders:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKvTFcaQaBU[43:34] Connect & Support AnikaPodcast: https://yourbrandamplified.com/Website: https://www.yourbrandedpodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/[45:15] AI Rap RecapKey Takeaways:• As humans, we know where we’re headed and the goals we want to accomplish. AI helps us get there. ~Anika Jackson [08:12]• AI is a new species. ~Anika Jackson [10:35]• AI is your partner. It’s here to support you, not take your place. ~Anika Jackson [15:50]• The essence of being human lies in forming genuine connections. ~Anika Jackson [17:35]• There are enough people in the world for everyone to have a business. ~Anika Jackson [23:18]• If you follow your passion and what you’re highly skilled at, money will follow. ~Anika Jackson [25:40]• AI helps, but it doesn’t lead. ~Anika Jackson [46:36]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Suno AI2. ClaudeKeep In Touch with Anika Jackson:Podcast: https://yourbrandamplified.com/Website: https://www.yourbrandedpodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amplifywithanika/—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #138 with Matthew Rouse.Lately, layoffs have become the order of the day. Companies are replacing people with AI to cut costs and increase efficiency. As a result, many people are afraid for their jobs. But the truth is ,AI isn’t the devil it’s been painted to be. It has its good, bad, and ugly sides. Matthew Rouse, author, digital marketing expert, and self-proclaimed “AI Chicken Wrangler,” joins Ben Albert on the podcast to tackle one of today’s hottest questions: Will AI take my job?Matthew Rouse, author, digital marketing expert, and self-proclaimed “AI Chicken Wrangler,” joins Ben Albert on the podcast to tackle one of today’s hottest questions: Will AI take my job?From the rise of fully automated, AI-generated podcasts to the impact of machine learning on everything from technical support to farm labor, Ben and Matthew dive deep into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work, communicate, and even socialize.They explore both the promise and pitfalls of AI, sharing personal stories and real-world examples of AI’s growing influence in editing, transcribing, and even job searching. Matt also reveals key insights from his new book, Will AI Take My Job 2? discussing not just which jobs are at risk, but also how we can partner with AI to stay ahead. This episode brings a candid look at the “good, the bad, and the ugly” future that technology might bring.Grab your notebook and pen, you’ll want to take notes for this tech-driven future.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:09] Will AI take my job?[04:21] AI-generated podcasts[07:20] Bot conversations[14:08] Jobs AI is guaranteed to take[18:08] The ugly[21:02] The bad[24:35] The good[25:55] AI in farming[27:39] Grab Matthew’s book Will AI Take My Job 2?Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Will-AI-Take-Job-Organizations-ebook/dp/B0FNNKV5GLWebsite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/[30:11] Training AI for the future[32:23] The AI Chicken Wrangler[34:41] Controversial AI takes[37:46] Transparency in AI[40:45] Household robots[45:23] Connect with Matthew RouseLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/Website: https://matthewrouse.com/[46:41] Partnering with AIKey Takeaways:  • “50% of people surveyed said they do not want to listen to AI-created podcasts.” ~Matthew Rouse [09:39]• If the point with AI is to get information across, it's fine. But if the point is to have a human connection with people, then no. ~Matthew Rouse [06:49]• “In my world, almost 100% of businesses are using AI.” ~Matthew Rouse [17:35]• “If we think for one minute that there isn’t going to be automation or robots everywhere soon, then we’re fooling ourselves.” ~Matthew Rouse [22:20]• The good side is that AI creates tons of new jobs and opportunities, ones people actually like better which increases prosperity for everyone. ~Matthew Rouse [24:36]• “The best way to stay relevant is partnering with AI.” ~Matthew Rouse [34:44]• “The amount of power and usage for the amount of output you get from AI drops by almost 90% a year.” ~Matthew Rouse [36:50]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Will AI take my Job 2?2. Digital Marketing Masters PodcastKeep In Touch with Matthew Rouse:Website: https://matthewrouse.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/ —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Learn Speak Teach Episode #137 with Eric Jorgenson.Scribe Media, once a top name in the publishing world, fell from industry leader in 2021 to bankruptcy by May 2023. Its collapse left hundreds of employees and freelancers jobless, authors who had paid in full with nothing in return, and investors defrauded of millions.In this episode, Eric Jorgenson shares how he stepped in as CEO of Scribe Media during its most turbulent chapter and the ongoing journey to rebuild the company’s reputation, trust, and future.Eric breaks down Scribe’s carefully designed process that helps authors turn their ideas into published books. He also reveals the secret to selling a million copies and discusses the drawbacks of relying on AI for writing.Beyond Scribe, Eric talks about his book The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, the evolution of audiobooks, and his venture fund, Rolling Fun. Tune in for amazing insights!During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [00:49] The Lost episode[05:19] Scribe Collapse & Recovery[08:33] Becoming Scribe’s CEO[16:51] Book writing process[27:46] Selling a Million Copies[29:44] AI Tools[32:42] The Almanack of Naval Ravikant[35:14] Audiobooks[44:28] Venture fund• Website: https://www.rolling.fun/[51:28] Connect with Eric• Website: https://www.ejorgenson.com/• Podcast: https://www.ejorgenson.com/podcastKey Takeaways:• “Being particular with your customers is a massive advantage.” ~Eric Jorgenson [15:45]• “Almost every writer has experienced writer’s block, but no human being has ever experienced talker’s block.” ~Eric Jorgenson [17:46]• If you want to sell a million copies of a book, don’t try to sell a million copies in a category that has never sold a million. Instead, go to a category where a million copies are sold once every few years when there is a hit. ~Eric Jorgenson [27:46]• “You aren't advertising to a standing army; you are advertising to a moving parade." ~David Ogilvy [28:02]• AI writing tools deny writers the full experience of writing. ~Eric Jorgenson [30:34]• There is wisdom in the things you hear over and over again. ~Eric Jorgenson [34:20]• Most people are now audiobook consumers. ~Eric Jorgenson [36:22]• The best thing a human being can do is help another human being know more. ~Eric Jorgenson [43:18]• The acquisition of wisdom is a moral duty. ~Eric Jorgenson [43:22]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Tucker Max2. Timothy Ferriss3. David Ogilvy4. Elon Musk5. Peter Thiel6. The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: https://bit.ly/4pEb85P7. Scribe Collapse & Recovery: https://www.tuckermax.com/the-scribe-media-collapse-and-recovery/Keep In Touch with Eric Jorgenson:Website (Company): https://scribemedia.com/Website (Personal): https://www.ejorgenson.com/Podcast: https://www.ejorgenson.com/podcastX: https://x.com/ericjorgenson—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Freestyle Rap Track Inspired By my top takeaways from The Bookthinkers Live 2025. https://www.bookthinkers.com/Freestyle Rap written using my custom Rap Lyric Songwriter GPT: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-68117a0e4f648191b790ed5006b62ac9-rap-lyric-songwriter+ https://suno.com/I HOPE TO SEE YOU IN 2026 AND BEYOND!-----Follow Balbert…Facebook www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbertWebsite: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–Real Business Connections is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/Lyrics:Title: "Voices from the Page" By Ben Albert, after attending Book Thinkers Live in Boston, MA[Intro – Spoken Flow] Ben Albert here. I attended Book Thinkers Live in Boston, Massachusetts. And here are my top takeaways…[Verse 1] I heard someone say, "I was addicted to achievement," Checked all the boxes, but lacked real agreement. They said, “I had success and I still felt empty,” A life full of gold but the soul felt gently — Tugged by a voice that whispered, you’re made for more, Purpose ain’t a goal, it’s a deeper core. A breakdown led to a breakthrough scene, Pain cracked open what ambition screened. So many folks in that room said the same, “I realized I was chasing someone else’s name.”[Hook – Chant Style] Show up every day, even when it hurts, Write through resistance, dig through the dirt. Clarity don’t come in the comfort zone, Truth lives loud when you’re all alone. Serve before scale, story before sell, If it don’t scare you, it might not compel. The story you’re scared to tell’s the one, That heals the most once the page is done.[Verse 2] They said “The book ain’t the biz — it’s just the start,” But without the model, your vision falls apart. “You don’t need a budget, you need a backbone,” Build that brand from the pain you own. Stop chasin’ viral, go build a lane, Consistency hits harder than a trending name. They said: “I used to chase the applause, Now I chase the impact, the mission, the cause.” Marketing ain’t magic — it’s a mirror you hold, Reflect who you are, not what gets sold. “Confidence is currency” — that hit deep, Some said they never felt enough to leap.[Bridge – Spoken Build] Steven Pressfield was in the air, I swear. Everybody talked about the war we wear. Resistance, fear, and showing up scared — But doing it anyway — that’s how legends are prepared. The pros show up, the rest delay, Discipline ain’t sexy, but it pays each day. Your muse don’t visit if you don’t do the work, You fight through doubt — that’s how breakthroughs lurk.[Verse 3] I heard: if you want clarity, speak more plain, Cut through fluff, stop playing the game. Don’t write for approval or clicks or likes, Write like your life’s on the line each night. The real flex? Serving with precision, Helping one soul — that’s real vision. Books don't blow up from fancy release, They grow from work that don’t ever cease.[Verse 4] This is for the reader, the one who's stuck, Who opens your book and finds their luck. They see your wounds and feel less alone, That’s the magic — that’s the tone. It’s not about being clever or known, It’s about being human in every zone. If one life shifts from your shared page, Then you just set the world ablaze.[Final Hook – Anthemic Chant] Write what hurts, not what trends, Your words got power, let the silence end. From breakdowns to breakthroughs, pain to page, This is your story — not a brand, it’s a stage. You don’t need permission, list, or praise, Just daily choices that compound days. Book was the start, but the legacy's flame, Is lit by the lines that outlive your name.

Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #27 with Alex Sanfilippo.Many people struggle with podcasting, whether it is finding the right guests, conducting good interviews, or mastering the skills of hosting and guesting. The truth is, podcast success isn’t about luck. It takes strategy, preparation, and purpose. So what are the secrets behind successful podcasting?Discover the secrets in this exclusive “Ask Me Anything” episode from the GrowGetters Only community featuring Alex Sanfilippo, a podcaster and founder of PodMatch.com.In the episode, Alex shares the inspiration behind starting PodMatch, the innovative podcast booking service that automatically connects ideal hosts and guests for interviews. He also explores what makes a great interview and offers practical tips for balancing podcast guesting with your personal & professional life.In addition, Alex discusses the mistakes he made while building PodMatch, the most common mistakes people make in their profiles, and the best pre-episode onboarding practices for hosts.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Introduction[01:11] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com[01:34] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/[02:57] PodMatch[11:27] Good Interviews[15:57] Podcast guesting[19:57] Host vs.Guest[24:54] Business Mistake[27:39] PodMatch: https://podmatch.com/free[38:12] Profile Mistakes[43:27] Pre-Episode Onboarding[47:31] Worst Interviews[50:06] Connect with Alex• Website: https://podmatch.com/freeKey Takeaways:  • The key to a successful podcast interview is thorough research and preparation to maximize synergy and connection. ~Alex Sanfilippo [12:24]• You become a better podcast host when you start being a podcast guest. ~Alex Sanfilippo [20:28]• Unspecific goals yield unspecific results. ~Alex Sanfilippo [30:21]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Seth Godin2. 21(movie): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0478087/Keep In Touch with Alex Sanfilippo:Personal Website: https://alexsanfilippo.com/PodMatch Website: https://podmatch.com/PodPros Website: https://podpros.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexsanfilippo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajsanfilippo/—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website:  https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/