Mick Unplugged

Mathew Knowles is a visionary entrepreneur, renowned music executive, and esteemed educator best known for his instrumental role in launching and managing the careers of Destiny's Child and Beyoncé. As a third-generation entrepreneur with a background in corporate diagnostic imaging and technology sales, Mathew's expertise spans talent development, global brand building, and health advocacy. A passionate advocate for wellness and cancer prevention—himself a male breast cancer survivor—he champions early detection and genetic awareness, while consistently empowering others with his decades of experience, adaptability, and commitment to leadership and education. Takeaways: The Power of Passion and Consistency: Mathew credits his enduring success to a relentless passion for his work, emphasizing that passion—paired with strong work ethic and consistency—fuels greatness and allows leaders to stay relevant across changing times and industries. The Importance of Early Detection: Drawing from his cancer survivor journey and background in diagnostic imaging, Mathew underscores the lifesaving value of early health screenings and genetic testing, especially within communities of color, advocating for a proactive approach over a reactive one. Brand Building Beyond the Surface: Mathew details his branding philosophy, explaining that both individuals and businesses must see themselves as brands, and that successful brands convey their value not just through words but through optics, actions, and strategic messaging. Sound Bites: “We are all individually as well as in our corporate careers as well as in entrepreneurship, we are a brand. The moment we walk outside the door, we're messaging to the world.” “Passion and work ethics go together like a glove. When you live your passion, you never work—you work when you have a job.” “Early detection is the key. For something that could take 30 minutes or two hours of your day…it can determine if you're going to be in one of those stages or if you're at risk.” Connect & Discover Mathew: Event Link: Touch4Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrmathewknowles/?hl=en Website: https://www.mathewknowles.com/ X: https://x.com/mathewknowles?lang=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrmathewknowles/ 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/   YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website:  https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grant Cardone is a renowned entrepreneur, bestselling author, real estate mogul, and international speaker whose 10X philosophy has transformed lives and businesses around the world. From humble beginnings in Louisiana to building billion-dollar empires, Grant has become a global authority on sales, scaling, and unlocking human potential. Driven by a relentless pursuit to elevate his own potential and a deep desire to serve as the mentor he never had, Grant inspires millions to break free from obscurity, build powerful brands, invest strategically, and never be satisfied with “just enough.” With an unfiltered, energetic style and a heart to help others, he is redefining what’s possible in business and life.  Takeaways: ·        Visibility is Vital: Obscurity—not being seen or recognized—is a bigger problem than rejection. For entrepreneurs, your success hinges on being known and remembered for exceptional actions. ·        Invest, Don’t Just Save: According to Grant, saving money is futile because of inflation and loss of value over time; the key is to invest aggressively and use earned income to build passive income streams. ·        Your Circle Defines Your Ceiling: The people you surround yourself with can either limit or elevate your growth—often, those closest to you won’t see your next-level potential, so seek new circles and environments that foster growth.  Sound Bites: “You can only spend it, waste it, or invest it. That’s it. The first two don’t work.” “Obscurity is a much bigger problem than rejection—if you’re being rejected, at least you’re being seen.” “Quit trying to start things from scratch. Look for businesses you can buy and scale, not just build."   Connect & Discover Grant: Website: https://grantcardone.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantcardone/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantcardone/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantcardonefan/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GrantCardone   🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million   FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: @MickUnplugged Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/   YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website:  https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Apple: @MickUnplugged   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick Nanton is a 22-time Emmy Award-winning director, acclaimed storyteller, and the mastermind behind Impact Branding. He’s renowned for transforming ordinary lives into extraordinary legacies through the power of narrative, having worked with legends and industry icons across boardrooms, backstages, and even the bourbon world. As an entrepreneur and creative visionary, Nick has built empires on connection, authenticity, and the relentless pursuit of standout stories. He’s also the co-founder of The Difference bourbon with best-selling author Chris Voss, further proving his expertise in crafting unique, meaningful experiences both on and off the screen. Takeaways: ·        Build a World-Class Team: Nick’s journey illustrates that you don’t need to be an expert in everything. Surrounding yourself with talented people is the fastest way to bring bold ideas to life—whether it’s launching a new bourbon or producing award-winning films. ·        Experience Outshines ROI: Nick emphasizes the value of delivering unforgettable experiences rather than focusing solely on monetary returns—when you prioritize experience, success and connections naturally follow. ·        Your Brand Is Your Story: The most powerful brands are those whose stories others tell before you even walk in the room. Craft your narrative intentionally, starting from your unique life experiences, and let authenticity drive your impact.  Sound Bites: "A brand is just a story—a great brand is a story that other people tell before you walk in the room." "Money is the cheapest commodity in the world—it’s the unique experience and connection that make all the difference." "Being different is better than being better. You don’t have to compete—you just have to stand out by being authentically you."    Connect & Discover Nick: Website: https://nicknanton.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicknanton/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicknanton/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nicknanton?ref=ts X: https://x.com/nicknanton1 YouTube: @nicknanton5771    🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/   YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website:  https://mickhuntofficial.com/ Apple: MickUnplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Capehart is a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, renowned opinion writer at The Washington Post, and a prominent anchor on MSNBC. With decades of experience shaping and shifting national conversations, Capehart is celebrated for his fearless pursuit of truth and authentic storytelling. As an openly gay Black man, he brings powerful perspective and empathy to every story he tells, drawing from lived experience to illuminate the complexities of identity, politics, and culture. Most recently, Capehart released his memoir, Yet Here I Am: Lessons from a Black Man's Search for Home, offering candid reflections on resilience, belonging, and the power of self-belief.  Takeaways: Authenticity and Curiosity Drive Connection: Jonathan emphasizes the importance of genuine curiosity and emotional attentiveness when interviewing guests, allowing their true stories and emotions to emerge beyond surface-level questions. Self-Belief Fuels Success: Capehart shares a pivotal moment where he affirmed his own worth and talents, a declaration that became a turning point in his career and opened doors to new opportunities and confidence. Sharing Vulnerability Empowers Others: By openly discussing failures and personal challenges in his memoir, Jonathan aims to relate to readers from all walks of life, offering lessons learned as guideposts for those facing similar struggles.  Sound Bites: “At the root of that connection you’re talking about is curiosity. You have to be in these roles—especially as a podcaster—because we’re in people’s ears. It’s one of the most intimate experiences a person can have.” “The moment I said that out loud to myself in the privacy of my own shower—‘I am damn good at what I do’—that’s when everything changed.” “If you don’t believe in yourself, you’re not going to be able to do anything. Or as RuPaul says, ‘If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell are you going to love somebody else?’” Connect & Discover Jonathan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capehartj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/capehart/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@capehartj Book: Yet Here I Am: Lessons from a Black Man's Search for Home 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥 Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers. 👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: Mick UnpluggedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com  Apple: Mick Unplugged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kerim Kfuri is a renowned supply chain strategist, visionary business leader, and the driving force behind the Atlas Network for over two decades. With a track record of advising billion-dollar brands and building resiliency in global supply chains, Kerim is dedicated to helping leaders and entrepreneurs thrive through disruption. Known for his signature approach to maintaining “strategic calm in chaos,” he has become a relatable voice and educator in the world of supply chain management. Kerim’s work spans continents, and his impact is felt by both startups and large-scale manufacturers navigating today’s complex, rapidly-changing marketplace. Takeaways: Strategic Calm in Chaos: Kerim emphasizes the importance of maintaining calm and rational thinking during times of disruption. This mindset allows leaders to devise the best strategies rather than reacting hastily to challenges. Preparedness and Contingency: In supply chain and business, assume that things can and will go wrong. By preparing for multiple scenarios, entrepreneurs can pivot quickly and ensure continued progress—even when faced with major disruptions. AI’s Impact on Supply Chain: Artificial intelligence is set to revolutionize supply chain management, from optimizing material selection and design engineering to enabling companies to respond to shifting market, regulatory, and environmental demands efficiently. Sound Bites: “Through challenges and obstacles and chaos is where the opportunity exists.” – Kerim Kfuri” “Assume from the beginning that everything's going to go wrong... Prepare for the worst-case scenarios so you have the best-case outcome.” “Leadership is only as successful as the adoption of your leadership... you need to understand what motivates your audience and speak to that.” Connect & Discover Kerim: Website: https://kerimkfuri.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerimkfuri/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerimkfuri YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kerim-Kfuri TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kerimkfuri Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialkerimkfuri Book: Supply Chain-The Ups and Downs 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥 Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers. 👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: Mick UnpluggedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Jody Carrington is a renowned psychologist, best-selling author, and global keynote speaker known for shaking up boardrooms, classrooms, and living rooms with her powerful message that real human connection is our ultimate superpower. Hailing from Viking, Alberta, Dr. Jody draws on her rich background—from working with trauma survivors and her experience in Canada’s national police force, to leading transformative conversations on mental health and leadership. Her relatable, insightful approach cuts through the noise, helping individuals and organizations rediscover the importance of authentic interaction in an increasingly disconnected and tech-driven world.   Takeaways: ·        Connection is a Biological Need: We are neurobiologically wired for connection, and no matter how advanced AI becomes, authentic human relationships can never be automated or replaced. ·        Privilege and Purpose: Dr. Jody’s journey has taught her the power and responsibility that comes with privilege, and she’s on a mission to use her voice to foster inclusivity, compassion, and genuine connection—especially in a world grappling with loneliness and division. ·        Rest Fuels Leadership: True emotional intelligence and effective leadership require rest and self-care; when we neglect our own well-being, we lose access to our best selves and our capacity to authentically connect with others.    Sound Bites: ·        "We will never automate relationship, no matter how good we get at AI." ·        "The only AI that’s going to matter in the next generation is authentic interaction." ·        "You can’t give away something you’ve never received, which is why EQ is a privilege."   Quote by Mick: “How do you make this not about you in that moment? How doesJody evolve or respond to this moment?”   Connect & Discover Dr Jody: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjodycarrington/?hl=en Website: https://www.drjodycarrington.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/drjodycarrington Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjodycarrington/ Podcast: Unlonely with Dr. Jody Carrington TikTok: @drjodycarrington Book: Feeling Seen: Reconnecting in a Disconnected World   🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million    FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: Mick UnpluggedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: MickHuntOfficial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Haley Perlus is a renowned mental performance coach, author, and speaker who has made her mark as both an alpine ski prodigy and a “Performance Whisperer” for Fortune 500 leaders, Olympians, and everyday high achievers. With a PhD in Sport and Exercise Psychology, she draws from her own athletic journey and her deep belief in human potential to help individuals master their mental game, transform pressure into power, and achieve their personal gold standards. Dr. Haley is the author of Personal Podium,creator of the #MentalToughnessMoments series, and a passionate advocate for self-belief, personal growth, and mental wellness. Takeaways: Mental toughness is a skill, not a trait—it can be developed by focusing on motivation, confidence, focus, and anxiety control, making it accessible to anyone willing to put in the work. Preparation trumps natural talent or pressure—the best performers build on their strengths and prepare thoroughly, enabling them to confidently “want the ball” during high-stakes moments. Grace isn’t an excuse for inaction—you should give yourself compassion on tough days, but never let yourself off the hook completely. Doing something, even if it’s not your best, is always better than doing nothing.  Sound Bites: “I do believe people can grow. I do believe people can change. I do believe we have more control than we give ourselves credit for.” “Goals are great for vision, but standards are what you control and uphold daily—they become your benchmark for mental toughness.” “Winners want the ball because they’re willing to risk, to grow, to challenge themselves, and to see what they’re truly made of.” Quote by Mick: “You don’t rise to the occasion, you rise to your level of preparation. Connect & Discover Dr Haley: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drhaleyperlus/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-haley-perlus-33ab2219/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drhaleyperlus Book: Personal Podium: How to Use Your Mind to Maximize Your Potential In Sport and Life 🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥 Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers. 👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will Packer is a visionary film and television producer whose storytelling prowess has captivated audiences worldwide. From humble beginnings making self-distributed indie films to producing box office hits like "Girls Trip," "Think Like a Man," and "Ride Along," Will is recognized for blending creativity with strong leadership and relentless drive. An advocate for payingit forward and empowering others, he recently released his book Who Better Than You? The Art of Healthy Arrogance and Dreaming Big, sharing leadership lessons and the mindset that fueled his incredible journey from St. Petersburg, Florida, to Hollywood’s elite.    Takeaways: ·       Your Obligation Is Bigger Than Yourself – Will believes in using his privileged position to give back, not just to his family but also to his community. True legacy, he shares, is built through positively impacting others, not just personal accomplishments. ·       Success Requires Action, Not Just Passion – Will didn’t wait for the “perfect passion” to strike. He took action, learned hands-on, and found his true calling by doing rather than waiting, encouraging us all to be doers, not just dreamers. ·       Healthy Arrogance Fuels Achievement – Confidence is a muscle. Will’s mantra, “Who better than you?” challenges us to own our unique value, walk in rooms knowing we belong, and see self-belief as a tool for leadership—not toxic arrogance, but the healthy kind that brings everyone up.    Sound Bites: "I didn’t wait for my passion to hit me in the face. Too many of us do that now. I went and did something I did well—and found my passion within it." "Success is a bottom line business. At the end of the day, you’ll be judged by if you delivered or not." "Healthy arrogance is understanding you can make any room better while bringing everyone up—not tearing anyone down."    Quote by Mick: "Some days I do. Right. Some days I don't. But, like, I make sure that I fulfill the obligation more than I don't fulfill the obligation." Connect & Discover Will: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willpowerpacker/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillPowerPacker/ Website:  https://www.willpacker.com/home X: https://x.com/willpowerpacker?lang=en Book: Who Better Than You?     🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥   Mick Hunt’s brand-newbook, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million     FOLLOW MICK ON: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/   YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/ Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone talks about why. But the truth is—leaders don’t rise because of their why… they rise because of their BECAUSE. This trailer kicks off a new chapter of Mick Unplugged—where we go deeper than inspiration and get to the fire that actually fuels people. I asked high performers, visionaries, and difference-makers one question:“What’s your BECAUSE?” What you’ll hear is not polished. It’s not packaged. It’s the real reason they refused to quit. If you’ve been coasting on purpose statements and catchy quotes, this will wake you up. This isn’t self-help. This is self-honor. Press play. Then ask yourself:What’s your BECAUSE? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Damon West is an inspiring keynote speaker, bestselling author, and a living testament to the power of transformation and redemption. Once sentenced to 65 years in a Texas prison for his role in a meth-fueled crime ring, Damon emerged from incarceration with a message of hope, changing lives from corporate boardrooms to NFL locker rooms. Renowned for his gripping “Coffee Bean” story—a lesson he learned from a fellow inmate—Damon’s journey from maximum security to maximum impact has helped countless individuals break free from their challenges and become catalysts for positive change. He now travels the world empowering others to take ownership of their actions, overcome adversity, and inspire those around them. Takeaways: Redemption is possible for everyone: Damon’s story is living proof that no matter how far you fall, it’s never too late to change your life and make a positive impact. Your power lies within: The “Coffee Bean” message teaches that we each have the power to transform our environments—not by being changed by them, but by changing them from the inside out. Keep going and don’t give up: Whether you’re facing life’s obstacles or chasing your dreams, Damon’s journey reminds us that perseverance in the face of adversity often brings us closer to breakthrough moments than we realize. Sound Bites: “I put myself in the situation I was in where I had my back against the wall and the pressure was so high on me and I had to figure it out.” “Addiction doesn’t care who you are or where you come from. Addiction does not discriminate, because addiction doesn’t carewho you are, where you come from, who your parents are.” “If you ever shut yourself off to people because of their differences… you could miss some of the most important lessons and some of the best friendships in this life.” Quote by Mick: “You don’t have to win, but you doggone for sure better fight”    Connect & Discover Damon: Website: https://damonwest.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/damonjosephwest X: https://x.com/damonwest7 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBAEWdaKcRRLLhRRmyyOfJg Project: Coffee Bean Cares Program Book: Six Dimes and a Nickel   🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥  Mick Hunt’s brand-new book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm youwith the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.  👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices