The Story Engine Podcast

Everyone wants a more profitable business—but most entrepreneurs don't actually know what creates profit, let alone how to consistently increase it. Growing revenue is one thing. Taking home more money is another. In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Joe Abreu, an expert in helping business owners identify where profit is leaking, where opportunity is hiding, and how to build a business that rewards you financially—not just operationally. Joe breaks down the hidden drivers of profitability, the common mistakes entrepreneurs make when scaling, and the mindset shifts required to consistently take home more income. If you've ever looked at your revenue numbers and wondered why there's not more left over for you, this conversation will give you clarity, tools, and stories you can apply right away. ⏱ On This Episode [02:12] – Why revenue ≠ profit—and why entrepreneurs often confuse the two [04:47] – Joe shares the biggest profit leaks hidden inside most businesses [07:19] – The difference between scaling up and scaling smart [09:54] – Kyle and Joe discuss how small tweaks can dramatically improve profitability [12:38] – What most business owners misunderstand about expenses and margins [15:21] – A real-world example of a business owner who doubled take-home profit without growing revenue [18:03] – The mindset shift that transforms financial chaos into clarity [20:46] – Joe's simple framework for increasing profit starting this week [23:15] – Closing thoughts: how to build a business that pays you first

Writing a book isn't just about words on a page—it's about building authority and creating a strategic asset that moves your business forward. In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Bill Blankschaen, a master at helping experts turn their ideas into influential books that drive real business results. Bill shares his unique framework for authoring with purpose, why most experts approach book writing backwards, and how to craft a message that not only resonates with readers but attracts clients, opportunities, and credibility. If you've ever dreamed of writing a book—or want yours to make a bigger impact—this conversation will give you clarity, direction, and inspiration. ⏱ In This Episode [02:18] – Why writing a book is one of the most powerful ways to establish authority [04:57] – Bill explains why most authors start in the wrong place—and what to do instead [07:35] – The essentials of crafting a book that aligns with your business goals [10:22] – How to draw out the deeper message behind your expertise [13:41] – Kyle and Bill discuss using stories to elevate your credibility [16:54] – What differentiates a "calling card" book from a true authority-building book [19:29] – Common mistakes experts make when trying to write alone [22:46] – Bill's process for guiding authors from idea to published influence [25:31] – Closing thoughts: how to begin crafting a book that actually moves your mission forward

In a world dominated by clicks, funnels, and automation, is it possible we've lost the human touch? On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Sam Wakefield, a sales expert and personal development leader who's on a mission to bring door-to-door sales back into industries that have become overly reliant on digital marketing. Sam shares why face-to-face conversations are still one of the most powerful ways to build trust, how he's reframing "old school" sales for modern markets, and why genuine human connection is a sales strategy that never goes out of style. If you've ever felt that your sales process has become too cold, too automated, or too disconnected, this episode will remind you of the timeless power of a real conversation. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:31] – Why digital-only strategies can leave businesses missing real connection [05:12] – The psychology of face-to-face sales and why it still works today [08:44] – How Sam is helping companies reintroduce personal interaction into their sales process [12:09] – The hidden advantages of door-to-door over digital in certain markets [15:37] – Kyle and Sam discuss blending digital strategies with in-person engagement [19:03] – A story of how human connection transformed a sales conversation into lasting trust [22:18] – Why "old school" methods aren't outdated—they're a competitive advantage [25:41] – Closing thoughts: how to reconnect with customers in a more human way

The coaching world is booming—but most platforms only make the business side more complicated. What if you had a tool that didn't just organize your coaching practice, but actually made you a better coach? On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Mitch Russo, serial entrepreneur and founder of multiple software and coaching companies. Mitch introduces Click Coach, a powerful new platform designed to streamline the coaching process while helping coaches consistently deliver on the results they promise. We explore the unique features that set Click Coach apart, the philosophy behind its creation, and what this means for the future of coaching. If you're a coach—or aspire to be one—this episode will show you how to simplify your systems, elevate your practice, and focus on what really matters: transforming your clients' lives. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:34] – Why most coaching platforms fail to support what coaches actually need [05:12] – The origin story of Click Coach and how Mitch saw the gap in the market [08:01] – How Click Coach helps coaches deliver measurable results with less overwhelm [11:26] – The philosophy behind coaching with clarity, accountability, and results [14:58] – Real-world examples of coaches using Click Coach to transform their practice [18:15] – Kyle and Mitch discuss the future of coaching software and AI integration [21:39] – What sets Click Coach apart from generic business platforms [25:02] – Closing thoughts: how coaches can simplify their systems and amplify their impact

Every story you tell—whether on stage, in a book, or in a conversation—has the power to change how people see you, themselves, and what's possible. But often, we miss the deeper truths in our own stories until someone reflects them back to us. On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Amanda Johnson, a master storyteller who helps people uncover new possibilities by expressing their truth in talks and books. Together, we explore Amanda's own story while also unpacking practical storytelling strategies you can apply right away. From reframing limiting beliefs to structuring stories that resonate, this episode is both an intimate journey and a toolkit for better communication. If you want to share your message with more clarity, authenticity, and impact, you won't want to miss this conversation. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:25] – Why reflecting back someone's story can unlock new insights and possibilities [05:41] – Amanda shares her own journey into storytelling and coaching [08:13] – The difference between telling a story and crafting one for impact [11:28] – How to identify the deeper meaning behind your personal stories [14:36] – Practical techniques for structuring talks and books that truly resonate [17:59] – Kyle and Amanda explore how vulnerability and truth connect us with audiences [21:12] – Examples of how storytelling transforms both the speaker and the listener [24:47] – Closing reflections: why your story is always evolving—and how to tell it with power

High achievers often look successful on the outside—yet underneath, anxiety, self-doubt, and pressure can take a heavy toll. What if the very drive that fuels achievement could also lead to peace and calm, instead of burnout? In this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Patricia Zurita-Ona, a clinical psychologist who specializes in helping ambitious leaders and high performers break free from the cycles of fear and worry. Dr. Patricia shares why high achievers are especially prone to anxiety, the hidden ways it shows up, and how her approach empowers people to cultivate calm, resilience, and self-acceptance without losing their edge. If you've ever felt like your success comes at the cost of your peace of mind, this conversation will show you how to achieve both. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:19] – Why high achievers are particularly vulnerable to anxiety and overthinking [05:04] – Common patterns: how success-driven habits can mask deeper struggles [08:11] – The hidden cost of perfectionism and constant self-pressure [11:23] – Dr. Patricia's approach: moving beyond anxiety toward calm and resilience [14:42] – Practical strategies for shifting thought patterns in stressful moments [18:17] – Kyle and Dr. Patricia discuss how anxiety can become a growth signal, not just a setback [21:09] – Stories of clients who transformed their lives by reframing their relationship with anxiety [25:33] – Closing thoughts: why peace and success don't have to be opposites

What if fitness wasn't just about building muscle or burning calories—but about reshaping the way you lead, work, and live? On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Mycal Anders, a fitness coach who helps high achievers and executives create total life transformation through the discipline of fitness. Mycal shares why training the body is the gateway to unlocking clarity, resilience, and purpose, and how his approach goes far beyond the gym to impact leadership, relationships, and mindset. Whether you're an entrepreneur, an executive, or simply someone striving for more, this conversation will show you how fitness can become the foundation for real transformation in every area of life. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:21] – Why fitness is more than just health—it's a tool for leadership and clarity [05:10] – The unique challenges high achievers face when it comes to health and balance [08:36] – Mycal's approach to using fitness as an anchor for discipline and resilience [11:44] – Stories of executives who completely shifted their lives through his coaching [14:59] – How physical training impacts mental strength, confidence, and decision-making [18:12] – Kyle and Mycal discuss the ripple effect of fitness on relationships and business [21:28] – Practical steps leaders can take to start integrating fitness into their transformation journey [24:55] – Closing thoughts: why investing in your body is the key to unlocking your full potential

Entrepreneurs often find themselves juggling too many platforms—emails, landing pages, websites, and social media—leaving them stuck in complexity instead of flow. What if you could bring all of that under one roof and create more freedom, ease, and simplicity in your business? On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Lisza Crisalle, an expert at streamlining systems and building automation that supports growth without the overwhelm. Lisza shares her philosophy on simplifying business, her approach to integrating tools seamlessly, and how entrepreneurs can reclaim time and focus by letting go of tech chaos. If you've ever felt buried under platforms and logins, or you've wondered how to scale your business without scaling your stress, this conversation will show you the path to building smarter systems that actually serve your vision. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:18] – Why most entrepreneurs struggle with complexity in tech and automation [05:09] – Lisza's philosophy: freedom and ease as the foundation for scaling [07:42] – How consolidating tools saves both time and money for business owners [10:16] – Real-world examples of entrepreneurs transformed by streamlined systems [13:24] – The hidden cost of scattered platforms on productivity and mindset [16:33] – Lisza's process for mapping out automation that truly supports your business goals [19:08] – Kyle and Lisza discuss the role of storytelling in communicating tech solutions [22:15] – The promise of automation: more time for creativity, freedom, and growth [25:39] – Closing thoughts: how to start simplifying your systems today

How do you move from the depths of grief to a life of joy, purpose, and transformation? On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Alisa Cooper, founder of Cocoon to Butterfly—a movement, program, and experience designed to guide people through the painful seasons of loss and help them emerge with renewed hope and joy. Alisa shares her deeply personal journey, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the practices that allow her to support others on their own paths of transformation. This conversation is as much about resilience as it is about healing. Whether you're navigating grief yourself, supporting someone you love, or simply seeking more joy and alignment in your life, Alisa's story and methods will leave you inspired to embrace transformation. ⏱ Episode Highlights with Timestamps [02:27] – Alisa's personal journey: how grief became the catalyst for her mission [05:43] – The importance of creating safe, supportive spaces for healing [08:19] – How transformation often feels like a cocoon stage before joy can emerge [11:06] – Practices and rituals Alisa uses to help people move through grief [14:52] – Why joy and grief can coexist—and how to honor both [18:17] – Kyle and Alisa discuss the power of vulnerability in building community [21:44] – Stories of participants who found new strength and clarity through her program [25:09] – The role of movement, creativity, and ritual in the healing process [28:35] – Closing thoughts: embracing the transformation from cocoon to butterfly in your own life

What if fear, stress, and even pain weren't enemies to overcome—but powerful allies? On this episode of The Story Engine Podcast, I sit down with Akshay Nanavati, founder and author of Fearvana. Akshay has built his life and mission around transforming our relationship with negative emotions—teaching us how to channel fear, struggle, and discomfort into fuel for growth, clarity, and resilience. Drawing from his own extraordinary experiences, including life-threatening adventures and personal battles, Akshay shares his process for reframing fear and using it as a compass instead of a roadblock. Whether you're a high achiever facing burnout or simply someone looking for more courage in daily life, this episode offers a blueprint for turning struggle into strength. ⏱ On This Episode [02:14] – Why high performers struggle with fear, stress, and self-sabotage [05:06] – The science of reframing "negative" emotions into productive energy [07:38] – Akshay's personal story: a time when Fearvana helped him in life-or-death situations [10:41] – How embracing fear builds resilience instead of draining energy [13:22] – The mindset shift that turns pain into purpose and clarity [16:08] – Practical exercises for using fear as a tool in business and life [19:47] – Kyle and Akshay discuss how to reframe failure as training, not defeat [23:11] – Why fearlessness is a myth—and why fear itself is essential for growth [26:40] – Closing insights: how to live a bold, aligned, and purpose-driven life with Fearvana