

The Root of All Success with The Real Jason Duncan
The Real Jason Duncan
Welcome to The Root of All Success with The Real Jason Duncan—a podcast where I uncover the real stories behind today's most successful entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, artists, and leaders. In every episode, I dive deep into honest, unfiltered conversations that reveal how these trailblazers define success, overcome challenges, and craft transformative strategies to excel in their industries. I'm not just your host—I'm an entrepreneur behind 12 thriving ventures and the founder of The Exiter Club, a mastermind community dedicated to living #TheExitLifestyle. I built XOS™ (The Exiter Operating System) to empower business owners to transition from the daily grind to becoming strategic owner-investors, creating a life that blends professional achievement with personal fulfillment. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, my journey—from an 8th-grade history teacher to a serial entrepreneur—has been fueled by a passion for authentic success. Outside of my business interests, you'll find me enjoying motorcycle rides, RV adventures, and cherishing everyday moments with my high school sweetheart of 30 years and our two grown children. My life, both personal and professional, is guided by unwavering faith in Jesus. Tune in on all major podcast platforms and YouTube for actionable insights, fresh perspectives, and inspirational stories that can spark your own journey toward balanced success. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out in your business, visit businessburnouttest.com to take our Business Burnout Test and get personalized recommendations to reignite your passion and transform your life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 22, 2025 • 36min
287: The Hidden Costs of Burnout—and How to Break Free ft. Camilla Moore
Think working 24/7 is the only path to success? Think again.In this episode of The Root of All Success, Jason Duncan sits down with Dr. Camilla Moore, a stress and burnout expert, entrepreneur, and certified instructor at Harvard’s Benson Henry Institute. With a powerful blend of science, personal experience, and practical wisdom, Camilla shares what most entrepreneurs get wrong about stress—and how it could be silently sabotaging your business, health, and happiness.After building and selling a multi-six-figure practice, surviving COVID as a new mom in healthcare, and facing her own breaking point, Camilla now helps leaders and high-achievers reclaim their energy and rewire their approach to success—without burning out in the process.🔑 Takeaways from this episode:
The difference between stress and burnout (and why it matters)
How stress physiologically impacts decision-making and leadership
A simple exercise to identify your biggest energy drains
The SMART program and how it reduces stress by 40% in 8 weeks
What most founders get wrong about self-care and rest
How to spot burnout before it’s too late
The power of alignment between your inner and outer self
Why knowing who you are is the foundation of real success
👉 If you're tired of hustling without healing, this episode will give you the tools to slow down, recover, and show up stronger.Who is Dr. Camilla Moore?Dr. Camilla Moore is a diplomate in the American Academy of Lifestyle Medicine who specializes in stress management and burnout with women over 40. She has:
16 years of clinical practice as a Doctor of Chiropractic
Board Certified in Lifestyle Medicine through the American Academy of Lifestyle Medicine
Registered Yoga Teacher
Certified Clinical Instructor for Harvard University designed Stress Management and Resiliency Training (SMART) Program
Regular Guest Lecturer at Brown University Medical School
Corporate Wellness Consultant for major companies including Titleist and FootJoy
Started, built, and sold multi-six figure business in five years
Dr. Moore is a certified instructor for the SMART Program, developed by the prestigious Benson Henry Mind-Body Institute at Massachusetts General Hospital (an affiliate of Harvard Medical School). Dr. Camilla Moore’s Website Link: www.thewellnesscabinet.coDr. Camilla Moore’s Social Media Link:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camilla-moore-dc/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcamillamoore/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 14, 2025 • 36min
286: From Lawsuit to Legacy: R.T. Custer’s Watchmaking Revolution
What happens when a small-town entrepreneur takes on an $8 billion global giant—and wins?In this powerful episode, Jason Duncan sits down with R.T. Custer, founder of Vortic Watch Company, to talk about what it really means to bet everything on a vision, fight Goliath in court, and still come out swinging.From getting sued by the Swatch Group (the world’s largest watchmaker) to almost losing his business, business partner, and life partner, R.T. shares the unfiltered journey of resilience, reinvention, and staying true to the American dream. He also opens up about the dark side of entrepreneurship and how he’s building more than a business—he’s building a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, transparency, and asking the right questions.🔑 Takeaways from this episode:How Vortic Watch Company started—and why it almost didn’t make itWhat it’s like to go to court against a billion-dollar companyThe financial and emotional cost of standing your groundWhy asking for help is the most underrated business skillHow R.T. balances multiple brands without losing focusThe future of American manufacturing and skilled tradesHow to build a mission-driven company that employees are proud of👉 If you’ve ever felt like the underdog, this episode is your reminder that persistence pays off.Who is R.T. Custer?R.T. Custer is a serial entrepreneur dedicated to building a legacy through his products and services. In 2014, he co-founded Vortic Watch Company with Tyler Wolfe, transforming antique American pocket watches into unique wristwatches through their American Artisan Series. Their mission to "preserve American history one watch at a time" nearly ended when they were sued by the SWATCH Group in a six-year legal battle. In 2021, they won, setting a legal precedent for upcycling.Born on a Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania, R.T. comes from a long line of entrepreneurs and believes in the power of nurture over nature. His core values—Respect, Integrity, Empathy, Freedom, and Wealth—guide his business and life. He is now writing American Dreamers: The David v Goliath Story Defending The Right to Upcycle, first as a YouTube docuseries before turning it into a book using AI and expert copywriters. His favorite quote, “Plant trees under whose shade you’ll never sit,” reflects his commitment to long-term impact.R.T. Custer’s Website Link: vorticwatches.comR.T. Custer’s Social Media Link:https://www.instagram.com/vorticwatchesLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 11, 2025 • 35min
285: Why Every Visionary CEO Needs a Chief of Staff ft. Maggie Olson
Feeling overwhelmed trying to do it all? Wondering if it’s finally time to hire a right-hand leader to help scale your business? This episode will show you what it really takes to let go and grow.On this episode of The Root of All Success, Jason Duncan welcomes Maggie Olson, founder of Nova Chief of Staff, to unpack the misunderstood and often underestimated role of a Chief of Staff. From leading internal transformation at T-Mobile to building the world’s first Chief of Staff certification program, Maggie shares her personal story and expert insight on how business leaders can stop spinning their wheels and start leading with purpose.🔑 Takeaways from this episode:
How to know when it’s time to hire a Chief of Staff
The critical difference between an EA and a Chief of Staff
What visionary CEOs get wrong when hiring
The true cost (and ROI) of hiring a Chief of Staff
What to expect from Nova’s training and placement programs
How to stop "idea whiplash" and bring alignment to your team
Why strong leadership isn’t about control—it’s about clarity
Whether you’re a startup founder, a growing CEO, or a solo entrepreneur who feels buried in execution, this conversation is packed with real-world advice to help you reclaim your time and refocus on what matters most.Who is Maggie Olson?Maggie Olson is the Founder of Nova Chief of Staff, the premier and first-of-its-kind destination for Chief of Staff education, certification, and development. She has 20 years of experience in retail, food and beverage, and technology sectors and has held leadership roles at Nordstrom and T-Mobile. At T-Mobile, Maggie's impressive work led her to become the first Chief of Staff to the President of the T-Mobile Business Group. In this role, she built the Chief of Staff model from the ground up, creating a highly efficient team and establishing an executive back-office structure, supporting the President, SVPs, and over 5,000 employees. She also built a Chief of Staff team, defining all roles, processes, and systems. Through Nova Chief of Staff, Maggie continues to shape the future of business leadership, providing the tools and resources necessary for Chiefs of Staff to excel in their roles and drive company success.Maggie’s Website Link: https://www.novachiefofstaff.com/Maggie’s Social Media Link:https://www.linkedin.com/company/novachiefofstaffhttps://www.instagram.com/novachiefofstaff/https://www.facebook.com/NovaChiefofStaff/https://www.tiktok.com/@novachiefofstaffhttps://www.youtube.com/@novachiefofstaffLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 8, 2025 • 44min
284: How I Built a Business That Runs Without Me ft. Jason Duncan
In this solo episode, Jason Duncan shares the raw and honest story of how he built a business that operates independently of him—and what it really took to get there. From feeling trapped in a role he never wanted to becoming the owner of a self-sustaining business, Jason opens up about the mindset shift that changed everything. He talks about the pressure entrepreneurs feel to do it all, the toll it takes on their health and relationships, and the freedom that comes when you finally let go.If you've ever found yourself stuck working in your business instead of on it, this episode is your wake-up call. Learn why Jason stopped being his business's best employee and started being the visionary leader it actually needed.Jason's Website Link Jason's Social MediaFacebookInstagramLinkedinYoutubeLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 1, 2025 • 56min
283: How Phil Georges Built a National Law Firm Focused on People, Not Politics
What if real success wasn’t about power, money, or fame but fighting for people with no voice?
In this powerful episode of The Root of All Success, Jason Duncan sits down with Phil Georges, founder of Wolf of Justice, to talk about grit, leadership, and building one of America’s most successful multi-state law firms. Phil shares how his background—shaped by military training, public defense, and a tough Chicago upbringing—prepared him to fight for justice on a national scale.
From losing cases that broke his heart to winning verdicts that changed hospital policies, Phil gets real about what it means to lead with resilience, stay grounded in service, and why he believes fresh leadership and real accountability are needed more than ever in today's system.
🔑 Takeaways from this episode:
●Why true leadership is about service, not ego
●Lessons from growing up tough in Chicago and the courtroom
●How Wolf of Justice is redefining law firm culture and mission
●The emotional cost of fighting for justice—and why it’s worth it
●Why clear documentation is critical in today’s business landscape
●How Phil's mindset shifted from public defender to CEO
●Why term limits and new leadership mindsets are needed in politics and business
●How hard work (not connections) became Phil’s biggest advantage
👉 Ready to rethink what real success looks like?
💡 Subscribe to The Root of All Success and visit wolfofjustice.com to learn more about Phil’s mission to build a better legal system.
Who is Phillip Georges?
Phil Georges is a seasoned trial lawyer with over 125 cases tried and thousands successfully resolved.
He holds the record for the largest jury verdict in Iowa County, Wisconsin, and has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Civil Trial Lawyers in Wisconsin by the National Trial Lawyers Association since 2014.
Phil serves on the Executive Committee and has attained diplomat status with the organization. He is also a member of the Board of Governors for the Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association.
Phil is the founder and owner of Wolf of Justice, with offices in Nashville, Wisconsin, Virginia, and Arizona. His practice focuses on civil litigation, personal injury, civil rights, complex business disputes,
mass torts, product liability, and high-level criminal defense. Originally from Chicago, Phil graduated from Marquette University with a degree in political science and earned his law degree from Regent University School of Law. His career began as a public defender in Norfolk, VA, before transitioning to civil litigation.
Phillip’s Website Link: www.wolfofjustice.com
Phillip’s Social Media Link:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewolfofjustice
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 25, 2025 • 41min
282: Behind the Lens: How One Cameraman Took Over Live TV & Hollywood! ft. Mike Breece
Ever wonder how a small-town church camera operator went on to film presidential inaugurations, Academy Awards, and NASCAR races? Meet Mike Breece, a veteran in the broadcast and media industry, who built ProJib Inc., one of the top camera crane rental and production companies in the business.In this in-person episode of The Root of All Success, host The Real Jason Duncan dives deep into Mike’s 40+ years of experience, from his first gig at Channel 4 Nashville to working on some of the biggest productions in the world.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How Mike transitioned from freelance videographer to business owner✅ The biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make in the media industry✅ The importance of balancing work and family while scaling a business✅ Behind-the-scenes stories from live TV, sports, and Hollywood productionsIf you’re an entrepreneur, filmmaker, or creative professional, this episode is packed with game-changing insights on building a long-term, successful career in media.📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive interviews with industry leaders!🚀 Watch now and learn what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of media and business!Who is Mike Breece?Mike Breece is a television production veteran and CEO of Pro Jib Inc., a top provider of high-end camera support equipment. With over 40 years in the industry, he started as a church camera operator in Centerville, TN, later working at Channel 4 News and TNN, covering NASCAR and the CMA Awards. In 1998, he founded Pro Jib Inc., which has contributed to major events like Presidential Inaugurations, The Academy Awards, and The Grammys. A three-time Emmy winner and Silver Circle Award honoree, Mike continues to push innovation in broadcast technology.Mike Breece’s Website Link: www.projib.comMike Breece’s Social Media Link:Instagram: @breecemikeLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcastThis episode is sponsored by Dubb. Up your email game and make videos that convert! Get two free weeks and 50% off your first two months with this link: therealjasonduncan.com/dubb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 18, 2025 • 52min
281: Building a Video Business That Doesn't Need You with The Real Jason Duncan
🔥 How to Build a Video Business That Runs Itself with The Real Jason Duncan | Grow Your Video Business Podcast 🎬Struggling to grow your video business without being stuck in the daily grind? Discover how to build a thriving video company that doesn’t rely on you!In this episode of Grow Your Video Business, host Ryan Koral sits down with The Real Jason Duncan to discuss the key to scaling a business that runs on systems—not on YOU. Jason shares his Exit Without Exiting strategy, explaining how entrepreneurs can shift from being owner-operators to owner-investors. Learn why delegation, automation, and asset-building are the secret weapons for long-term success.📌 Topics Covered:✅ The difference between owning a job vs. owning a business✅ Why delegation is the first step to freedom✅ How to implement systems that scale your business✅ The XOS Method for exiting without selling✅ Why focusing on assets over revenue changes the game🎥 Perfect for: Filmmakers, videographers, and creative entrepreneurs who want to stop trading time for money and start building a business that thrives without them.🔔 Hit play now and take the first step toward real business freedom!👉 Watch now & take control of your business! 🚀Who is Ryan Koral?Ryan Koral is the founder of Tell Studios and host of the Grow Your Video Business podcast, where he helps videographers scale their businesses. A seasoned storyteller and educator, he also leads initiatives like the Smartphone Film Academy. With experience in film production and video marketing, Ryan is dedicated to empowering creatives to turn their passion into a thriving business.Ryan Koral’s Website Link: https://www.studiosherpas.com/podcastRyan Koral’s Social Media Link:
Official Website: ryankoral.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ryankoral
Twitter: twitter.com/ryankoral
Instagram: @ryankoral
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GrowYourVideoBusiness
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcastThis episode is sponsored by Dubb. Up your email game and make videos that convert! Get two free weeks and 50% off your first two months with this link: therealjasonduncan.com/dubb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 12, 2025 • 52min
280: How a ‘Flop’ Became a Hit – The Shocking Story Behind This Iconic Song!
🎶 From Writing Iconic Hits to Leading in Business & Art 🎶What does it take to create a song that transcends generations? In this episode of The Root of All Success, Stacy Widelitz—co-writer of She’s Like the Wind with Patrick Swayze—shares his incredible journey in music, film, and beyond. Hosted by The Real Jason Duncan, this conversation dives into:🔥 The unexpected rise of Dirty Dancing and how a “flop” became a phenomenon🔥 Collaborating with Patrick Swayze and the making of an unforgettable hit🔥 Transitioning from composing to black-and-white photography—and winning awards!🔥 Leadership lessons from the arts applied to civic roles and business successStacy’s story is proof that creativity isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and saying “yes” to the unknown. 🎤✨🎧 Watch now and get inspired by a master of creative reinvention!Who is Stacy Widelitz?Stacy Widelitz is a composer and photographer best known for co-writing "She's Like the Wind" with Patrick Swayze for Dirty Dancing. The song reached #3 on Billboard’s Top 40 and earned two BMI awards, along with a 4-million airplay award in 2009. His career includes scoring films, over 20 TV movies, writing for Pocahontas II, and earning an Emmy nomination and multiple Gold Addie awards.In 2015, Widelitz expanded into black-and-white street photography during a trip to Tuscany, capturing emotional moments reminiscent of film noir. His photography has been exhibited in Nashville at The Arts Company, Prima Signa Gallery, and Nashville International Airport. He is represented by Chauvet Arts.Widelitz has held leadership roles with Nashville Opera, Leadership Music, ALIAS Chamber Ensemble, and the Nashville Film Festival.Stacy Widelitz’s Website Link: stacywidelitz.comStacy Widelitz’s Social Media Link:Instagram: www.instagram.com/@stacywidelitzLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcastThis episode is sponsored by Dubb. Up your email game and make videos that convert! Get two free weeks and 50% off your first two months with this link: therealjasonduncan.com/dubb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 4, 2025 • 37min
279: Mastering Productivity: Amber De La Garza’s Journey to Success
Struggling to stay productive? Working all day but feeling like you got nothing done? This episode is for YOU!In this episode of The Root of All Success, The Real Jason Duncan sits down with Amber De La Garza, a sought-after productivity specialist, coach, and speaker, to uncover the real secrets to getting more done—without the stress.Amber shares powerful insights on priority management, time blocking, and planning strategies that help entrepreneurs escape the trap of constantly working in their business instead of on it. Discover why time management is a myth, how to take control of your schedule, and why freedom of attention is the ultimate success factor.💡 Key Takeaways:✅ The #1 strategy to instantly boost productivity✅ How planning your day the right way leads to massive efficiency✅ Why “freedom of attention” is more important than “freedom of time”✅ The mindset shift that changed Amber’s business foreverIf you want to maximize your time, increase profits, and create a business that fuels your ideal lifestyle, don’t miss this episode!🔔 Hit PLAY now and learn how to finally take control of your time!Who is Amber De La Garza?Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber has more than a decade of experience helping small business owners maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most by improving their time management and elevating their productivity! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Small Business Straight Talk Podcast and creator of Leverage Lab®. Amber shares her message on her weekly podcast and as Straight Talks both virtually and in-person across the country for audiences that range from small business owners and associations to multinational corporations. Amber De La Garza’s Website Link: https://amberdelagarza.com/Amber De La Garza’s Social Media Link:Facebook: www.facebook.com/theproductivityspecialist Instagram: www.instagram.com/amber_delagarzaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberdelagarza/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcastThis episode is sponsored by Dubb. Up your email game and make videos that convert! Get two free weeks and 50% off your first two months with this link: therealjasonduncan.com/dubb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 25, 2025 • 37min
278: The Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship with Sean Barnes
🔹 From IT Nerd to Leadership Coach: How Sean Barnes Transformed His Career & MindsetIn this episode of The Root of All Success, host The Real Jason Duncan sits down with Sean Barnes, an IT professional turned entrepreneur, speaker, and leadership coach. Sean's journey from corporate America to business ownership wasn’t smooth sailing—he faced failures, financial setbacks, and the challenges of starting from scratch. But through relentless personal growth, leadership development, and operational excellence, he built a thriving business and a successful podcast, The Way of the Wolf.🔥 Here’s what you’ll learn:✅ Why transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship is harder than you think✅ The power of adversity in shaping success and leadership✅ How Sean helps tech executives become better communicators and leaders✅ The biggest mistake new entrepreneurs make when building their teams✅ Why sustainable success is all about strategy, mindset, and execution📢 Don’t miss this deep dive into the real struggles and strategies behind success! Watch now and level up your leadership game. 💪Who is Sean Barnes?Sean is a seasoned cross-functional leader with over two decades of progressiveexpertise in Leadership Development, Digital Strategy, Operational Excellence, Human Resources, ESG, and HSE. Driven by a passion for harmonizing leadership and operational excellence, he founded WSS Solutions and hosts "The Way of The Wolf" podcast. Through these platforms, Sean is dedicated to developing exceptional leaders and building high-performance teams that consistently surpass expectations. His mission is to empower organizations to achieve sustainable success by encouraging a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.Sean Barnes’s Website Link: seanbarnes.comSean Barnes’s Social Media Link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanbarnes/https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes/https://x.com/the_seanbarnesLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! https://therealjasonduncan.com/podcastThis episode is sponsored by Dubb. Up your email game and make videos that convert! Get two free weeks and 50% off your first two months with this link: therealjasonduncan.com/dubb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices