In Search Of Excellence

Gary Vaynerchuk, commonly known as Gary Vee, is an influential entrepreneur, speaker, and internet personality, best known for his expertise in digital marketing and social media. Starting his career in his family's wine business, Gary's innovative approach to e-commerce and content creation catapulted the business from a local enterprise to a national leader in wine retail. He later founded VaynerMedia, a leading digital agency that services Fortune 500 clients across the globe. In this episode, Gary shares his unfiltered insights on the dynamics of building and scaling businesses, the evolution of consumer engagement, and the relentless pursuit of hustle. He opens up about his journey from a Belarusian immigrant to a global business mogul, reflecting on the impact of his heritage on his work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. With his characteristic candor and deep passion for empowering others, Gary offers listeners not only a glimpse into the competitive world of digital marketing but also imparts profound lessons on perseverance, vision, and personal branding.Timestamps:02:41 - Introduction05:21 - Gary Vee narrates the immigration challenges faced by his family leaving the Soviet Union and adjusting to life in America.08:02 - Gary Vee talks about his father's entrepreneurial journey from managing a store to owning it and the lessons learned from observing his work ethic.10:41 - Randall Kaplan praises the inherent strength and resilience of influential women in challenging environments.13:20 - Randall Kaplan shares an emotional personal story, underscoring the importance of strong family values.16:04 - Gary Vee elaborates on the supportive dynamics within his extended family and the emotional bonds that shaped his upbringing.18:41 - Gary Vee emphasizes the crucial life skill of dealing with adversity and finding comfort in uncomfortable situations.21:20 - Gary Vee reminisces about his childhood summers, filled with familial connections and simple joys.24:03 - Randall Kaplan reflects on his childhood outdoor activities, noting the less supervised yet richly interactive play of his youth.26:40 - Randall Kaplan discusses overcoming personal challenges and the motivation behind his drive to succeed despite obstacles.29:23 - Gary Vee debates the nature of entrepreneurial success, questioning if innate talent is a necessary component and sharing his personal experiences with early business ventures.32:03 - Gary Vee discusses his youthful business initiatives, including running a lemonade stand and the creative ways he expanded it.34:44 - Gary Vee recalls his childhood efforts to earn money through various small ventures, from selling flowers picked from neighbors’ gardens to singing carols.37:22 - Gary Vee shares his philosophy on the value of hard work over formal education, reflecting on his personal and family experiences.40:00 - Gary Vee looks back on a defining weekend in his youth that solidified his passion for business and innovation.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Sean Mike Kelly is a serial entrepreneur and an influential advocate in the Web 3.0 space. From launching Jersey Champs during his freshman year of college to navigating the volatile world of cryptocurrency investments, Sean’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by both spectacular successes and educational setbacks. In this enlightening episode of “In Search of Excellence,” hosted by Randall Kaplan, Sean delves into his unique experiences growing up with immigrant parents, his early business ventures, and the profound lessons he learned about the psychological impact of financial highs and lows. He also shares insights into the critical roles that adaptability, mentorship, and a positive mindset have played in his career. Engaging and deeply personal, this episode offers valuable perspectives on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.0:00 - Introduction to Sean Mike Kelly and his journey from college entrepreneur to multimillionaire.2:14 - Early financial lessons and the psychological impact of perceived wealth.5:20 - Sean’s multicultural background and how his parents’ immigrant stories shaped his perspective on money and success.9:37 - Starting Jersey Champs and the pivot to selling masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.13:48 - Lessons learned from early business ventures and coping with financial uncertainties.18:03 - The role of influencers and strategic marketing in the growth of his businesses.22:25 - Sean discusses the importance of adapting business strategies to market changes.26:39 - Reflections on financial freedom and the volatile world of cryptocurrency investing.30:52 - The significance of networking and mentorship in Sean’s career development.35:10 - Insights into managing personal and professional life, and the ongoing learning process.39:55 - How Sean’s family values and work ethic have influenced his business practices.44:30 - Sean talks about overcoming introversion and the impact of positive thinking.48:45 - Final thoughts on entrepreneurship, preparation, and the importance of mindset in achieving success.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer is an accomplished actress and advocate, widely recognized for her role as Alison DiLaurentis in the hit TV series Pretty Little Liars. Throughout her career, Sasha has captivated audiences with her compelling performances and has become a powerful voice in promoting body positivity and mental health awareness. In this episode, Sasha delves into the complexities of acting, sharing candid stories from her time on set, the challenges of handling intimate scenes, and how she navigates the pressures of Hollywood. She also opens up about her personal journey of self-acceptance and the importance of advocating for one's own mental and physical well-being. With authenticity and insight, Sasha gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry, while offering valuable lessons on resilience and growth.Timestamps:0:39 - Randall discusses the financial illusions of Hollywood fame and the real take-home pay.1:44 - Sasha debunks common myths about the glamorous lives of actors.15:22 - The role of public criticism in personal and professional development within the acting world.18:14 - Randall shares his insights on sustaining a long-term career in the ever-evolving film industry.25:23 - Sasha reflects on pivotal experiences on film sets that shaped her approach to acting.28:18 - Challenges faced by newcomers trying to break into the acting scene.31:17 - Behind-the-scenes look at what really happens during actor auditions with Sasha.34:24 - Unseen efforts and the grind behind successful acting careers.40:05 - How Sasha manages her family life amidst her demanding acting schedule.45:38 - Strategic career moves and advice from Randall on navigating Hollywood’s competitive landscape.45:42 - Sasha discusses how she copes with the frequent rejections from auditions.1:02:12 - Importance of perseverance in the face of industry barriers, shared by Sasha.1:06:10 - Sasha narrates personal stories from her career that highlight significant learning moments.1:09:40 - Sasha reflects on a pivotal career-defining moment and its lasting impact.1:10:11 - Closing thoughts from Sasha on pursuing passion and finding fulfillment in acting.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Sasha Pieterse Sheaffer is an accomplished actress and advocate, widely recognized for her role as Alison DiLaurentis in the hit TV series Pretty Little Liars. Throughout her career, Sasha has captivated audiences with her compelling performances and has become a powerful voice in promoting body positivity and mental health awareness. In this episode, Sasha delves into the complexities of acting, sharing candid stories from her time on set, the challenges of handling intimate scenes, and how she navigates the pressures of Hollywood. She also opens up about her personal journey of self-acceptance and the importance of advocating for one's own mental and physical well-being. With authenticity and insight, Sasha gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry, while offering valuable lessons on resilience and growth.0:00 - Introduction.3:14 - Discussion on balancing personal sacrifices with following dreams.6:41 - Considerations in casting young actors for age-appropriate roles.10:06 - Randall Kaplan shares thoughts on handling professional transitions.13:22 - Challenges of accessing opportunities in the acting industry.16:45 - Discussion on time management challenges in professional settings.19:49 - Addressing the sensitivity required in diverse professional environments.23:11 - Sasha recalls uncertain moments from her acting career.26:40 - Debates on standards of acceptability in professional conduct.30:09 - Strategies for managing early career responsibilities.33:50 - The stress of performing well under observation.37:31 - Insights into the less glamorous aspects of the entertainment industry.41:13 - Discussion on the emotional demands of acting.44:54 - Emotional highs and lows experienced within the industry.48:14 - Sasha shares a story about a significant investment opportunity.51:41 - Recounting an encounter where Sasha was recognized unexpectedly.55:06 - Reflections on working in a challenging environment.58:37 - The benefits of encountering diverse perspectives in acting.1:02:06 - The influence of family knowledge on navigating the industry.1:06:05 - The importance of trust and communication in professional settings.1:09:37 - Emphasizing the foundational role of trust in collaborative work.1:13:24 - Brief interaction emphasizing interpersonal relationships.1:17:03 - Discussing the difficulty of receiving criticism.1:20:49 - The pitfalls of seeking fame as the primary career motivation.1:24:39 - Closing thoughts on pursuing passion regardless of success.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Sean Payton is a highly respected NFL coach, celebrated for his strategic brilliance and leadership on the football field. Known for his transformative tenure as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Payton led the team to its first and only Super Bowl victory in 2010, solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful coaches in NFL history. With a career marked by innovative offensive strategies and an ability to develop winning teams, Payton has been a driving force behind the Saints’ rise to prominence in the league. Beyond his coaching accolades, Payton is admired for his resilience and dedication, traits that have guided him through both professional triumphs and challenges. Now heading into his second season as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, Payton’s commitment to excellence and his impact on the game continue to inspire players, fans, and aspiring coaches alike.1:57 - Initial Insights and Offers3:53 - Transition and Family Adjustments5:50 - Navigating Team Changes7:48 - Scouting and Recruitment Tactics9:44 - Team Relocation and Challenges11:40 - The Importance of Victory13:37 - Daily Routines and Success15:36 - Leadership and Influence17:28 - High-Scoring Strategies19:28 - Road to the Championship21:24 - Reflecting on Past Games23:24 - Quarterback Strategies25:19 - Preparation and Game Planning27:15 - Career Highlights and Enjoying Success29:13 - Reflections and Looking AheadCoaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Sean Payton is a highly respected NFL coach, celebrated for his strategic brilliance and leadership on the football field. Known for his transformative tenure as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, Payton led the team to its first and only Super Bowl victory in 2010, solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful coaches in NFL history. With a career marked by innovative offensive strategies and an ability to develop winning teams, Payton has been a driving force behind the Saints’ rise to prominence in the league. Beyond his coaching accolades, Payton is admired for his resilience and dedication, traits that have guided him through both professional triumphs and challenges. Now heading into his second season as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, Payton’s commitment to excellence and his impact on the game continue to inspire players, fans, and aspiring coaches alike.0:00 - Introduction: Sean on career decisions and growth through interviews.0:32 - Sean’s Background: Overview of Sean’s coaching journey and NFL success.1:12 - Growing Up: Sean’s childhood across California, Philadelphia, and Illinois.3:14 - Childhood Magic: Stories of his father’s magic and basement doves.3:54 - Early Sports Dreams: Sean’s love for sports and growing up as a jock.6:19 - Influential Coaches: The impact of high school coach JR Bishop.11:00 - College at Eastern Illinois: Sean’s time as a quarterback and key coaching influences.14:42 - Costly Job Interview: Sean’s first coaching interview challenges.18:00 - Coaching at San Diego State: Sean’s decision to join as a graduate assistant.19:09 - The Tough Interview Question: A challenging question during a coaching interview.20:39 - Aspiring for Excellence: Sean’s ambition to be a head coach in the NFL.23:52 - Interview with Al Davis: A unique interview with Al Davis over cheeseburgers.26:57 - Advice from Parcells and Jones: How advice from Bill Parcells and Jerry Jones shaped his decisions.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Howie Mandel is a celebrated comedian, television host, and actor, renowned for his unique blend of humor and versatility across various entertainment platforms. Rising to fame as Dr. Wayne Fiscus on the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere, Mandel later became a household name through his iconic role as the host of the hit game show Deal or No Deal. His sharp wit and engaging presence also made him a fan favorite as a long-time judge on America’s Got Talent. Beyond his on-screen success, Mandel is known for his candid discussions about his struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder, making him a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. His career, marked by resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence, continues to inspire audiences both through his entertainment endeavors and his advocacy work.0:00 - Howie discusses his initial skepticism about hosting Deal or No Deal.0:39 - Facing show cancellations and contemplating leaving the entertainment industry.0:58 - Howie explains his initial hesitation about game shows and the stigma attached.4:00 - Howie recalls the unconventional pitch meeting that changed his mind.6:30 - Howie’s wife encourages him to take the game show offer during a tough career moment.8:45 - Howie discusses the human element of Deal or No Deal and how it shifted his approach.10:16 - Howie reflects on the emotional impact of hosting his first episode.11:33 - Howie describes the overwhelming success and unexpected audience reception.12:00 - Howie talks about joining AGT and the challenges of being a judge.14:00 - Howie shares the difficulty of critiquing performers in person.17:45 - Reflecting on memorable performances and the emotional resonance of the show.18:34 - Howie emphasizes the diversity and uniqueness of each act on AGT.19:55 - Howie recounts his public struggle with OCD and the importance of speaking out.24:34 - Howie’s perspective on success in comedy and his advice to aspiring comedians.25:00 - Howie stresses the importance of persistence and taking action in any career.29:23 - Howie discusses his philosophy of saying yes to opportunities and its impact.30:00 - Howie views life as a game to be played, embracing challenges and opportunities.34:01 - Howie explains the close relationship between comedy and tragedy.37:26 - Howie’s belief in instinct over preparation in his career decisions.43:04 - Howie discusses the role of luck and making your own opportunities.44:35 - Howie emphasizes the importance of focusing on the current moment.45:06 - Reflecting on the influence of Richard Pryor and authenticity in comedy.49:18 - Howie on the importance of consistency and persistence in his personal and professional life.52:32 - Howie compares life to a flowing river, advocating for staying engaged and curious.53:09 - Howie’s involvement with Proto and his interest in new technologies.1:01:44 - Howie shares what he would have done with a million dollars at 21.1:03:42 - Howie answers rapid-fire questions on life lessons, regrets, and goals.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Howie Mandel is a celebrated comedian, television host, and actor, renowned for his unique blend of humor and versatility across various entertainment platforms. Rising to fame as Dr. Wayne Fiscus on the acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere, Mandel later became a household name through his iconic role as the host of the hit game show Deal or No Deal. His sharp wit and engaging presence also made him a fan favorite as a long-time judge on America’s Got Talent. Beyond his on-screen success, Mandel is known for his candid discussions about his struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder, making him a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. His career, marked by resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence, continues to inspire audiences both through his entertainment endeavors and his advocacy work.00:00:00 - Introduction: Howie Mandel on self-control and early challenges.00:02:13 - Avoiding Complacency: the importance of staying motivated.00:04:44 - Zip Grip Invention: Howie’s first entrepreneurial memory.00:07:06 - Comedy Beginnings: discovering a love for comedy.00:09:37 - Joining the Comedy Scene: realizing his place in comedy.00:12:24 - Life Lessons: key insights from Howie’s experiences.00:15:00 - Business Ventures: Howie’s corporate and personal projects.00:17:37 - Mental Health Struggles: dealing with intrusive thoughts.00:20:18 - Seeking Help: the importance of mental health awareness.00:23:13 - Airport Turning Point: a life-changing moment at the airport.00:25:38 - Childhood Reflection: early feelings of embarrassment and confusion.00:27:58 - Comedy Confusion: not fully understanding his own humor.00:30:27 - Desire to Belong: Howie’s need to connect with others.00:33:02 - Navigating Expectations: balancing personal and professional life.00:35:29 - Comedy Struggles: early challenges in making people laugh.00:38:07 - Reflective Pause: a brief moment of reflection.00:40:45 - Observing Reactions: watching how people react in different situations.00:43:21 - Customer Focus: the importance of prioritizing customers.00:45:52 - Influence of Rothenberg: discussing Michael Rothenberg’s impact.00:48:43 - Youthful Energy: reflecting on the energy in comedy.00:51:37 - Dreams & Nightmares: exploring dreams, both literal and metaphorical.00:53:58 - Power of Laughter: how making people laugh shaped Howie.00:56:45 - Embracing Discomfort: growth through facing discomfort.00:59:08 - Comedy Store Breakthrough: a pivotal moment in Howie’s career.01:01:39 - Balancing Work & Life: managing a demanding career and personal life.01:04:24 - Finding Success: Howie’s journey to success in comedy.01:07:06 - Reflecting on Stories: revisiting memorable career moments.01:09:39 - NBC Experience: discussing Howie’s work with NBC.01:12:09 - Working with Stars: collaborating with Tim Robbins and Kathy Bates.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Jon Anik is a renowned play-by-play commentator for the UFC, celebrated for his articulate and energetic commentary style that has defined the voice of modern mixed martial arts. Over the last 13 years, Anik has risen to the pinnacle of sports broadcasting, hailed by peers like Joe Rogan as the best in the field. His journey began in the Boston area where he cultivated his love for sports, influenced significantly by family and early experiences at sports events. Anik’s professional path was not straightforward; he transitioned from hopeful journalism ambitions to becoming a leading figure in sports media, driven by a deep passion for MMA that developed over time. His breakthrough came when he joined UFC, leaving a stable position at ESPN to pursue more dynamic and challenging opportunities in sports commentary. Today, Jon Anik not only calls the most thrilling fights in the UFC but also hosts the popular Anik & Florian podcast, sharing his insights and extending his influence beyond the octagon. His story is one of relentless pursuit of passion, adaptation in a rapidly evolving sports landscape, and unwavering commitment to excellence in sports broadcasting.Timestamps:0:00 - Introduction and overview of the episode with Jon Anik0:50 - Jon discusses his early career and passion for MMA2:30 - Transitioning into the role of UFC commentator4:20 - Challenges faced during live broadcasts6:00 - Jon’s preparation routine for UFC events7:50 - Memorable moments and favorite fights Jon has called9:30 - The impact of social media on Jon’s career11:15 - Balancing professional and personal life13:00 - Jon’s thoughts on the evolution of the UFC15:10 - Working with Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier17:05 - The significance of fitness in Jon’s routine19:00 - Jon’s experience with high-pressure situations21:00 - Reflections on iconic UFC moments22:55 - The influence of Dana White on Jon’s career24:50 - Jon’s advice for aspiring sports commentators26:45 - The importance of staying informed about fighters28:45 - How Jon stays motivated in his career30:45 - Jon’s insights into the future of MMA32:45 - Closing thoughts on the growth of UFC34:30 - Jon’s final message to fans and sign-offCoaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn

Jon Anik is a renowned play-by-play commentator for the UFC, celebrated for his articulate and energetic commentary style that has defined the voice of modern mixed martial arts. Over the last 13 years, Anik has risen to the pinnacle of sports broadcasting, hailed by peers like Joe Rogan as the best in the field. His journey began in the Boston area where he cultivated his love for sports, influenced significantly by family and early experiences at sports events. Anik's professional path was not straightforward; he transitioned from hopeful journalism ambitions to becoming a leading figure in sports media, driven by a deep passion for MMA that developed over time. His breakthrough came when he joined UFC, leaving a stable position at ESPN to pursue more dynamic and challenging opportunities in sports commentary. Today, Jon Anik not only calls the most thrilling fights in the UFC but also hosts the popular Anik & Florian podcast, sharing his insights and extending his influence beyond the octagon. His story is one of relentless pursuit of passion, adaptation in a rapidly evolving sports landscape, and unwavering commitment to excellence in sports broadcasting.0:00 - Jon Anik kicks off with a UFC freestyle rap.0:33 - Introduction to "In Search of Excellence" by Randall Kaplan; Jon Anik highlighted as a lead UFC commentator.1:14 - Anik discusses his family's influence, especially his parents, on his personal and professional life.3:06 - Reflections on growing up as a sports fan in Boston and the familial ties to sports.5:14 - Conversation on leadership qualities distinguishing bosses from leaders.7:43 - Anik talks about his leadership experiences during high school and discovering his public speaking talent.9:41 - Insights into Anik's career path, focusing on leveraging personal strengths and the role of public speaking.11:29 - Anik's college years at Gettysburg College and early journalistic ambitions.13:46 - Details of Anik's internships, early job challenges, and strategic career moves.17:15 - The importance of preparation in achieving career success, shared through personal stories.19:00 - Discussion on work ethic and generational changes in the workforce.21:31 - Advice on identifying and developing one's strengths to navigate career paths.24:07 - Anik's major career break transitioning from ESPN to UFC, emphasizing opportunities and networking.26:36 - Initial exposure to MMA and growing passion for the sport.28:49 - Anik describes his path to becoming UFC's top announcer, stressing self-belief and seizing opportunities.31:00 - Encourages skeptics of MMA to experience a live UFC event to understand its appeal.33:29 - Career guidance for entering the competitive sports industry.36:08 - Concluding thoughts on personal development, mentorship, and engaging with aspiring professionals.Coaching and Staying Connected:1-on-1 Coaching | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | LinkedIn