Hacks and Hobbies with Junaid Ahmed

What if the real secret to leading isn’t about titles, but invisible work behind the scenes?In this raw and revealing conversation, award-winning mentor and Navy veteran Enrique Acosta Gonzalez exposes how the world’s most authentic leaders are built in silence, not on stage. With emotional honesty and practical wisdom, Enrique shares how to overcome fear, prepare for your defining moment, and transform every setback into strength.What You'll Learn: Leadership starts in the unseen: act today, lead tomorrow. The Triad Principle: balance material and spiritual leadership. Overcoming fear is crucial—small steps toward courage matter. Guide from your own “why,” not just external expectations. True legacy is made with selfless action and impact.Timestamps 00:00 – A Navy Journey Transformed: Enrique’s origin story 02:00 – Triad Leadership: Spiritual and Tactical Secrets 04:00 – The Power of Leading Yourself—Before You Lead Others 08:15 – Why “Why” Changes Everything: Digging into personal motives 10:40 – Confronting Fear: How to know if you’re ready to lead 14:05 – The Possibility Practice: Imagining your future self 16:20 – Growing in the Shadows: Building a legacy that mattersGuest Links LinkedIn: [Connect with Enrique Acosta Gonzalez](https://www.linkedin.com/) Website: [Enrique’s Contact & Resources](https://www.enriqueacostagonzalez.com/) (edit with real link) Instagram: [@enriqueacostagonzalez](https://instagram.com/) (edit with real link) Book a Call: Via LinkedIn profileEach episode stands alone as a true Diary of a CEO moment, challenging you to go deeper, think harder, and step up—quietly—until the world can’t help but notice.

What does it take to go from the shadows of the unknown to the spotlight of global recognition?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Enrique Augusta Gonzalez—CEO of Triad Leadership Solutions, retired Navy veteran, and six-time bestselling author—to uncover the raw truth behind leadership, legacy, and the courage to chase your dreams.Enrique’s journey is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. From 26 years of service in the US Navy to building a thriving business and award-winning podcast, he reveals the mindset shifts, daily habits, and emotional battles that shape true leaders. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn setbacks into stepping stones and create impact that outlives you, this conversation is your blueprint.What You'll Learn:The hidden cost of “playing it safe” with your dreams—and how to break free.Why legacy is built in the quiet moments, not just the spotlight.How Navy core values shaped Enrique’s leadership philosophy for life.The emotional rollercoaster of transitioning from military to entrepreneurship.Practical tools for developing the leader within—starting today.Timestamps:00:00 – From Unknown to Award-Winning: Enrique’s journey begins02:10 – 26 Years in the Navy: Core values that never fade05:30 – The Lost Feeling: Navigating life after service08:15 – Salary vs. Dreams: The moment Enrique chose legacy over comfort12:00 – Building Triad Leadership Solutions: The birth of a mission15:20 – Podcasting & Possibility: Why sharing your story matters18:45 – Legacy, Longing, and Leadership: Lessons from “Somewhere in Time”Guest Links:Website: https://triadleadershipsolutions.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/enriqueaugustagonzalezInstagram: https://instagram.com/enriqueaugustagonzalezBook: https://www.amazon.com/author/enriqueaugustagonzalezIf you’re ready to step into your own influence and build a legacy that lasts, don’t miss this episode.

What if losing your dream job was the best thing that ever happened to you?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Kirk Gimenez, a two-time Emmy winner and the first Latino to anchor in English at ESPN, to uncover the untold story behind his rise, fall, and ultimate reinvention as the founder of sizzle TV. Kirk reveals how losing his authentic voice in mainstream media led him to create a platform that celebrates multicultural stories, positivity, and unapologetic representation.Dive deep into Kirk’s journey of resilience, the power of staying true to your roots, and the mission to flood the world with uplifting stories. This conversation is a masterclass in turning adversity into opportunity, building a brand with purpose, and why the future of media belongs to those who dare to be different.What You'll Learn:How Kirk became the first Latino to anchor in English at ESPN—and why it mattered.The pain of losing his authentic voice and the 20-year journey to reclaim it.Why sizzle TV is more than a platform: it’s a movement for multicultural, positive storytelling.The business case for authenticity and why brands must embrace multiculturalism.Kirk’s new mission: using AI mini-docs to amplify untold, uplifting stories at scale.Timestamps:00:00 – The Power of Follow-Up: How Junaid and Kirk first connected03:15 – Breaking Barriers at ESPN: Becoming the first Latino anchor in English08:40 – Losing and Reclaiming Authenticity: The birth of sizzle TV15:20 – Multiculturalism as a Superpower: Why 200%ers are the future22:10 – The Broken State of Media—and Kirk’s plan to fix it with positivity28:45 – AI Mini-Docs: Revolutionizing storytelling for nonprofits and brands34:00 – Advice to His Younger Self: “Never let them take your Latino voice”Guest Links:Website: https://www.sizzletv.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkgimenez/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirkgimenez/Twitter: https://twitter.com/kirkgimenez

What if you could rewire your brain to break free from trauma and step into a life of confidence, clarity, and calm?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Hilary Ruso—certified havening practitioner, podcast host, and trauma healing expert—to uncover the science and soul behind emotional resilience. Hilary reveals the hidden mechanisms of the brain, shares powerful real-life transformations, and guides you through practical havening techniques that anyone can use.Prepare to challenge everything you thought you knew about trauma. This conversation is a masterclass in self-healing, packed with actionable insights, emotional breakthroughs, and the tools to start your own journey toward lasting change.What You'll Learn:The four elements of trauma encoding and why your brain can’t tell past from presentHow havening rapidly rewires neural pathways for healing and resilienceReal-world stories of overcoming fear and reclaiming safety—even on the world’s biggest stagesThe “AAA Effect”: Awareness, Allowance, and Alignment as the foundation for transformationSimple daily havening practices to calm your mind and build emotional strengthTimestamps:0:01:05 Trauma Decoded: The Four Elements That Shape Your Brain0:06:33 Why Your Brain Is Wired for Negativity—and How to Change It0:08:38 From Opera Stage to Safe Space: A Grammy Winner’s Breakthrough0:11:52 Havening 101: The Science and Practice of Self-Healing0:14:19 Positive Mindset vs. Pleasant Distraction—What Really Works?0:16:38 The AAA Effect: The First Step to Lasting Resilience0:20:41 Who Needs Havening Most? Hilary’s Surprising Fictional PickGuest Links:Website: https://hilaryrusso.comPodcast: Holistically Speaking (https://hilaryrusso.com/podcast)Events & Trainings: https://hilaryrusso.com/eventsInstagram: https://instagram.com/hilaryrussoLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hilaryrussoBook (upcoming): “Hug It Out” (details on website)This episode is your invitation to be kind to your mind, discover the power of havening, and start hacking your way to healing.

What if you could rewire your brain for resilience and joy?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Hilary Rousseau—one of only 50 certified havening trainers in the world, trauma-informed holistic practitioner, and host of the globally top-rated “Holistically Speaking” podcast. Hilary reveals the neuroscience behind self-healing, the transformative power of gratitude, and how her “Hug It Out” method can help you reclaim your mind’s safe space.Discover how humor, understanding, and gratitude can become your daily tools for emotional well-being. Hilary’s journey is both deeply personal and universally inspiring—this conversation will change the way you think about healing, self-care, and the stories we tell ourselves.What You'll Learn:The “Hug It Out” Method: How humor, understanding, and gratitude can transform your emotional landscape.Havening Techniques: The science-backed self-soothing practice that rewires your brain for safety and calm.Gratitude’s Power: Why two minutes of gratitude each morning can change your entire day.Music & Healing: How rhythm and song activate your vagus nerve and regulate emotions.Resilience in Adversity: Lessons from trauma, storytelling, and finding joy—even in the hardest moments.Timestamps:00:00 — Hilary Rousseau: The Journey to Healing and Resilience02:10 — What Is Havening? The Science of Creating a Safe Mind07:45 — The Hug It Out Method: Humor, Understanding, Gratitude13:20 — Self-Healing vs. Self-Care: Starting with Gratitude17:05 — Music, Rhythm, and Emotional Regulation22:30 — Lessons from War Movies: Finding Strength in Adversity28:15 — The Power of Storytelling: Big Fish, Grief, and Legacy

What if the only thing standing between you and a thriving, burnout-proof freelance business is a single mindset shift? In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Jason Willis Lee—medical translator, business strategist, and host of the Freelance Training podcast—to uncover the hidden frameworks that separate struggling freelancers from industry leaders.From the power of lead magnets to the art of productizing your expertise, Jason shares the hard-won lessons and emotional turning points that fueled his evolution from service provider to sought-after thought leader. If you’re ready to attract better clients, earn more, and finally break free from the time-for-money trap, this conversation is your blueprint.What You'll Learn:Discover why “standing out in a sea of sameness” is the #1 skill for freelancers—and how to do it.Learn the lead magnet strategies that build trust and fill your pipeline with high-quality clients.Find out how virtual assistants and automation can buy back your time and scale your business.Uncover the secrets to productizing your expertise and making the leap to six figures.Get Jason’s advice for building a resilient content machine that keeps working—even when you’re not.Timestamps:00:01 – Welcome & Jason’s Evolution: From translator to thought leader00:42 – The #1 Mistake Freelancers Make (and how to fix it)02:24 – Lead Magnets That Actually Work: Glossaries, cheat sheets, and more05:07 – The Power of Teams: Why virtual assistants are a game-changer05:41 – Packaging Your Expertise: Moving beyond time-for-money08:13 – Automation & Newsletters: Building a business that runs itself11:11 – What to Build First: Jason’s advice for stuck freelancersGuest Links:Website: https://entrepreneurialtranslator.comLinkedIn: Search “Jason Willis Lee” or “Entrepreneurial Translator”Podcast: Freelance Training (available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts)Book Reference: “How to Find Modern Clients” (featured in episode)Instagram: (Not provided; recommend searching guest’s name)If you want to go deeper, connect with Jason on LinkedIn or visit his website for more resources, courses, and his acclaimed podcast.

Step inside the mind of Jason Willis-Lee, an ITI certified medical translator and serial entrepreneur, who’s spent over 25 years navigating the shifting tides of business, burnout, and personal brand in a world flooded with AI and endless content. With wisdom forged in Madrid and a career packed with reinvention, Jason reveals how freelancers can break through the noise, leverage their story, and create a business only they can build.In this unmissable conversation, Jason and Junaid dive into the secrets of packaging your IP, building a magnetic personal brand, and why iteration— not perfection— is the real superpower in 2025. Whether you’re a solopreneur, creative, or future-proofing your income against the AI tide, this episode uncovers how to claim your authority, connect more deeply, and build demand for what only you can deliver.What You'll Learn:Why personal branding is your uncopyable moat in business.How to transition from trading time for money to scalable impact.Lessons on balancing automation with authenticity and quality.The importance of rapid iteration over perfection for freelancers.How the best in the business—from Elon Musk to Hormozi—build demand and break out.Timestamps:[0:00] Welcome & Rapid Introduction: Meet Jason Willis-Lee—translator, entrepreneur, and podcast host.[0:45] From Employee to Entrepreneur: Jason’s powerful pivot and 25 years of reinvention.[2:35] The Per-Hour Trap & Packaging IP: How to stop selling time and start selling transformation.[5:00] “Find More Clients” and the Supply-Demand Secret—building buzz like Elon Musk.[7:14] AI, Automation & Quality: Standing out when content is infinite.[12:28] Authority Through Authenticity: The personal brand strategy that never fails.[17:29] The “Perfection Trap”: Jason’s game-changing advice for every freelancer.Guest Links:Website: https://www.jasonwillislee.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-willis-lee/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonwillislee/Book: “How to Find More Clients”

Could your biggest trading loss be just one emotional decision away?In this gripping episode, Casey Stubbs — veteran, trader, and creator of the 1% Weekly Trading System — reveals the life-changing mindset shifts and risk strategies that help thousands move from gambling with their futures to building real wealth. Casey brings military discipline, hard-earned wisdom, and a rare emotional honesty to a conversation that will challenge everything you thought you knew about success in the markets and in life.Discover why trading isn’t about getting rich quick, how to tame emotional impulses, and why those who protect their gains — not just chase them — become the true winners. Whether you’re looking to escape financial pain or secure a vision for your future, this raw, curiosity-driven discussion will leave you re-evaluating how you approach money, risk, and personal growth.What You'll Learn:The biggest mental shift traders must make: it’s not a casino, it’s a craft.Emotional control is the true “edge” — and most traders lose without it.Risk management isn’t optional; it’s your survival plan.Consistency and reinvesting profits are keys to scaling up safely.Focus on the “top 20%” — the Pareto Principle creates outsized results, especially in tech.Featured Timestamps:[00:00] Mindset Reset: How traders sabotage success by chasing quick wins[01:12] The Hidden Cost of Emotional Trading & How to Beat It[03:01] Military Secrets: Risk Management Lessons for Investors[07:23] From Profits to Progress: The Power of Reinvesting[08:40] The 80/20 Rule: How Top Investors Pick Winning Stocks[10:00] Tech as the Wealth Engine: Past, Present, and Future[12:23] Fun Finale: What Monk the Detective Teaches Us About MoneyGuest Links:Website: freedomincomeoptions.com

What if you could walk away from your 9-to-5 and never look back?In this revealing episode, Casey Stubbs—trading authority and mission-driven mentor—shares how he empowers 100,000 professionals to master a step-by-step trading system for consistent 1% weekly returns. Discover the emotional journey behind the strategies, the misconceptions about options, and the mindset shift that can transform your financial life forever.Join Junaid Ahmed in a deeply honest conversation where financial independence meets personal growth, and the real keys to lasting wealth are finally unlocked.What You'll Learn : Why most people misunderstand options trading—and how Casey makes it simple and safe.The life-changing power of consistent, small wins over risky gambles.How emotional intelligence shapes financial success (and failure).The "cash-secured put" and "covered call"—Casey's two-step formula for predictable returns.The one mindset shift every aspiring trader must make to change their lives.Timestamps:[00:00] Escaping the 9-to-5: Meet Casey Stubbs and his mission[01:00] A family legacy—early influences, hard lessons, and teenage stock trading[05:00] Emotional spending, discipline, and turning $200/week into $30,000[08:40] The biggest misconception: options are not just for “gamblers”[11:20] Breaking down Casey’s 1% system: The two strategies anyone can use[14:40] Real success stories: retirees, side hustlers, and the power of consistency[19:01] The rule that applies to trading—and life: manage risk, not just dreams**Guest Links:** Website: CaseyStubbs.com (placeholder – replace with actual link if available) LinkedIn: Casey Stubbs on LinkedIn Instagram: @caseystubbs Book: [Casey Stubbs’ Books]

What if the secret to building a thriving business isn’t about being everywhere, but about showing up where it matters most?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Michelle Thames—brand strategist, podcast host, and digital ecosystem architect—to uncover the real blueprint for standing out, attracting clients, and turning your passions into profit.Michelle’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention and resilience. She reveals why visibility is more than just posting online, how to craft a customer journey that converts, and the mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to succeed. Whether you’re just starting or ready to scale, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about branding, marketing, and making your mark.What You'll Learn:Visibility starts with knowing your audience—down to their deepest motivations.Focus on platforms where your ideal clients actually spend time, not everywhere at once.Build a customer journey: nurture leads, create trust, and guide them to conversion.Monetize your expertise through digital products, audio courses, coaching, and more.Messaging and follow-up are the secret weapons for turning followers into paying clients.Timestamps:00:00 – Michelle’s Reinvention: Why It’s Never Too Late to Start Over00:39 – The Visibility Blueprint: Where to Show Up and Why02:44 – The Biggest Mistake Entrepreneurs Make (and How to Fix It)06:55 – Monetizing Multiple Passions: From Digital Products to Paid Speaking10:12 – The #1 Fix for Struggling to Convert Your Audience12:59 – Three Practical Steps to Boost Visibility and Revenue Today14:48 – Michelle’s Dream Business Beyond Marketing (and Her Love for Matcha)Guest Links:Website: https://thingsmediasolutions.comWebsite: https://michellethames.com (coming soon)Instagram: https://instagram.com/michelleLthamesLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/michellethamesFacebook: https://facebook.com/michellethamesYouTube: https://youtube.com/@michellethamesThis episode is your invitation to rethink visibility, embrace your expertise, and start building a brand that truly stands out.

What if losing everything was the spark you needed to build your dream life?In this episode, Michelle Thames reveals how being fired from her healthcare job became the catalyst for a radical reinvention. Discover how she transformed a side hustle into a thriving business, built a digital marketing agency with her husband, and became a sought-after speaker and podcast host. Michelle’s story is a masterclass in betting on yourself, embracing your passions, and turning setbacks into your greatest advantage.What You'll Learn:Why getting fired can be the best thing that ever happened to youThe power of starting small and building one client at a timeHow to balance multiple passions without losing focusThe mindset shift every woman over 40 needs to thrive in businessWhy you don’t need to be everywhere to build visibilityTimestamps:00:02 — Fired & Fearless: Michelle’s turning point02:10 — From Side Hustle to Full-Time: The birth of a business04:30 — Building a Brand: Lessons from a multi-million dollar startup07:15 — Betting on Yourself: The moment Michelle went all in10:00 — Balancing Passions: Strategies for multi-passionate entrepreneurs13:20 — Reinventing After 40: Advice for late bloomers16:00 — Quickfire: Biggest leap, mindset shifts, and visibility mistakesGuest Links:Website: [Michelle Thames Media Solutions](#)LinkedIn: [Michelle Thames](#)Instagram: [@michellethames](#)Book: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

What if everything you know about marketing is wrong?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Joshua Ramsey, the Fractional CMO who’s helped countless businesses slash costs and skyrocket results. Joshua pulls back the curtain on the real reasons most marketing budgets fail—and shares the science, stories, and strategies that separate the winners from the wasted.Discover the emotional journey behind every marketing decision, the power of perception, and why data—not gut feeling—should drive your next campaign. Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or just curious about what really works in 2025, this episode will change how you see your brand, your budget, and your business.What You'll Learn:The “Law of Thirds”: Why understanding your true cost per acquisition is the first step to smarter marketing.Perception is everything: How your brand’s reputation is built (or broken) by what people see—not what you say.The funnel decoded: Why every business must master inbound before chasing trends like AI.Real-world hacks: From mall surveys to Google AdWords, Joshua shares actionable tactics for any budget.Fact vs. feeling: The surprising reason most business owners miss out on their best marketing opportunities.Timestamps:00:00 – The Hidden Costs of Marketing: Joshua’s eye-opening story of a roofer who stopped all marketing (and what happened next)04:20 – Hollywood’s Secret: What movie trailers can teach you about ramping up your brand06:54 – Leverage Marketing: How to double down on what works (and cut what doesn’t)10:27 – Fact vs. Feeling: The data-driven mindset that changes everything17:17 – 2025’s Top Marketing Trends: Why AI is overhyped and what really matters20:27 – Where to Invest First: Joshua’s no-nonsense advice for new businesses23:48 – Three Quick Wins: Citations, real feedback, and the $250 AdWords hackGuest Links:Website: jrcmo.comLinkedIn: Joshua Ramsey on LinkedIn (search “Josh Ramsey marketing”)Instagram: @josh_ramsey_cmo (suggested handle, verify for accuracy)Book: “The Agile Marketing Plan” (placeholder—replace with actual title if available)

Are you burning money on marketing agencies and still not seeing results?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Joshua Ramsey, a fractional CMO with 20+ years of experience and 80,000+ campaigns under his belt, to expose the hidden truths behind agency relationships—and how business owners can finally take control.Joshua shares raw stories of frustration, costly mistakes, and the emotional rollercoaster of trusting the wrong partners. Discover the mindset shifts, strategies, and KPIs that separate thriving businesses from those stuck in a cycle of disappointment. If you’re ready to stop wasting money and start scaling smarter, this episode is your wake-up call.What You'll Learn:Why most business owners set themselves up for disappointment with agencies—and how to break the cycle.The single most important question to ask before hiring any marketing partner.How to set KPIs that actually drive results (and what to do when they’re not met).The power of agility: why sticking to a failing plan is the costliest mistake of all.Programmatic advertising explained: the future-proof channel you can’t afford to ignore.Timestamps:00:00 – The Hidden Frustration: Why Most Agency Relationships Fail02:26 – The Unique Selling Proposition: What Really Makes You Stand Out?05:33 – Setting KPIs That Matter: The Secret to Agency Accountability10:26 – Should You Hire a CMO? The CEO’s Dilemma13:56 – When to Cut Your Losses: The “Good Money After Bad” Trap16:54 – Agility or Die: The Real Secret to Surviving in Marketing20:26 – The One Channel Joshua Would Bet His Career On

What if the key to your business growth isn’t more ads, but more authenticity?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Alec Johnson—live video strategist, digital stage pioneer, and founder of Take One Tech—to reveal the untold truths behind building a magnetic brand in the digital age. Alec shares the real reason live video transforms strangers into superfans, the overlooked tech upgrades that instantly boost your presence, and the emotional journey of turning online connections into lifelong relationships.Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or just starting out, Alec’s story will challenge what you think you know about content, connection, and confidence. Get ready for actionable insights, honest confessions, and a roadmap to monetizing your passion—without losing your soul.What You'll Learn : The simplest live video setup that anyone can start with—no fancy gear required Why audio quality matters more than video (and the affordable mic Alec swears by) The “confidence monitor” trick that instantly levels up your on-camera presence How to turn casual viewers into loyal clients—Alec’s secret to building trust The #1 mistake that kills engagement (and the new tools that fix it for good) **Timestamps:** 00:01 — Why Live Video Is a Game Changer for Entrepreneurs 01:05 — The Beginner’s Setup: Start Simple, Sound Great 03:20 — Level Up: The Two Upgrades That Transform Your Production 06:34 — The Real Secret to Audience Engagement (and What Most Get Wrong) 12:26 — From Streams to Sales: Turning Viewers into Clients 15:35 — Monetization 101: The First Step Alec Wishes He Took Sooner 18:57 — Dream Locations, Real Connections: Alec’s Vision for the Future **Guest Links:** Website: takeonetech.io YouTube: [Take One Tech 2](https://www.youtube.com/@TakeOneTech2)

What if the only thing standing between you and your audience is a single moment of courage?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Alec Johnson, founder of Take One Tech and creator of Digital Stage Academy, to uncover the raw truth behind building confidence, clarity, and connection in the world of live video. Alec reveals the hidden fears, the power of community, and the game-changing mindset shifts that separate those who merely show up from those who truly command the digital stage.Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or someone terrified of hitting “Go Live,” this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to embrace imperfection, authenticity, and growth. Discover why your first live stream is never as scary as you think—and how the right support can turn your biggest mistakes into your greatest strengths.What You'll Learn :Confidence is built through repetition, authenticity, and embracing imperfection.The Ecamm Live community’s support is a game-changer for creators at every level.Your first live stream is rarely watched—so use it as a safe space to grow.Mistakes and tech failures are not setbacks; they’re opportunities for real connection.Start simple: focus on your message, not the gear, and let your skills evolve naturally.Timestamps:00:00 – Alec Johnson’s Journey: From One-Take Videos to Digital Stage Mastery03:44 – The “Aha” Moment: Why Authenticity Beats Perfection Every Time08:00 – The Biggest Fear: Is Anyone Really Watching Your First Live Stream?10:45 – When Tech Fails: Turning Bloopers into Unbreakable Confidence12:35 – The 3 Cs: Clarity, Confidence, and Connection Explained14:52 – Scuba Diving & Live Video: Staying Calm When Everything Goes Wrong19:58 – The Most Ironic On-Camera Blooper (and What It Taught Alec)Guest Links:Website: Take One Tech (placeholder)LinkedIn: Alec Johnson on LinkedIn (placeholder)Instagram: @takeonetech (placeholder)Book: Digital Stage Academy (placeholder)

What if the secret to lifelong health isn’t a radical overhaul, but a series of tiny, consistent steps?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with renowned wellness coach Tess Cheng, whose journey and coaching philosophy are reshaping how we think about self-care. Tess reveals the science and stories behind building habits that last, sharing why “starting small” is the most powerful tool for transformation.From the influence of “Atomic Habits” to the real-life micro-habits that keep busy people thriving, Tess opens up about her own struggles, breakthroughs, and the emotional side of wellness. Whether you’re overwhelmed by change or searching for practical ways to prioritize yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action—one small step at a time.What You'll Learn:Why starting with just 10 minutes can change your life—and your brain.The hidden power of hydration and movement for busy professionals.How to “habit stack” for effortless self-improvement.The #1 strategy for disease prevention and long-term vitality.Tess’s personal chapter title: “Sharing my knowledge with others is the most beautiful thing on earth.”Timestamps:00:00 – The Power of Small Steps: Tess’s approach to sustainable wellness01:07 – Atomic Habits: How James Clear’s book shaped Tess’s coaching03:03 – Meditation & Breathing: Why less is more for beginners04:28 – Micro-Habits for Busy Lives: Hydration, movement, and brain breaks06:29 – The Longevity Secret: Movement as medicine for mind and body08:20 – Scheduling Self-Care: Making wellness non-negotiable10:46 – Tess’s Chapter Title: The beauty of sharing knowledgeGuest Links:Website: Glow with TessLinkedIn: Not providedInstagram: Not providedBook: Not providedThis episode is your invitation to start small, stay consistent, and discover the joy of lifelong wellness—straight from a coach who’s living proof that tiny habits can spark massive change.

What if your family’s health history could become your greatest source of strength?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Tess Cheng, a certified health and wellness coach with over 13 years of experience and a master’s in clinical nutrition from NYU. Tess’s journey from navigating hypoglycemia and a family legacy of diabetes to empowering others with practical, science-backed wellness strategies is as inspiring as it is actionable.Discover how Tess transformed personal adversity into a mission to help others reclaim control over their health. She shares the mindset shifts, daily habits, and science-driven insights that make wellness achievable—even for the busiest lives. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of change, Tess’s story will show you that small, consistent steps can lead to lifelong transformation.What You'll Learn:Your genes are not your destiny—prevention and mindful choices can rewrite your health story.Sustainable wellness starts with one small habit at a time, not an all-or-nothing overhaul.Sleep is the secret weapon for better health, weight management, and decision-making.Mindset matters: treat your health like a long-term investment, not a quick fix.Support, education, and self-compassion are the keys to lasting change.Timestamps:[00:00] Meet Tess Cheng: From family health struggles to wellness authority[01:11] The wake-up call: Discovering hypoglycemia and taking control[04:06] How clinical nutrition shaped Tess’s coaching philosophy[06:35] The real reason we sabotage our sleep—and how to fix it[09:48] Overcoming overwhelm: Tess’s step-by-step approach to building habits[11:26] The mindset shift that changes everything: Health as a long game[13:50] Where to find Tess and start your own wellness journeyGuest Links:Website: GlowWithTess.com(No LinkedIn, Instagram, or book links provided in this episode. For more, visit Tess’s website.)If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered life, this episode is your blueprint.

What if the secret to building an audio empire is listening, not talking?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Charlie Birney—co-founder of Podville Media, author of The Tao of Podcasting, and the “Chief Listening Officer”—to uncover the surprising journey from golf courses and property management to the heart of the podcasting revolution. Charlie shares how embracing change, following curiosity, and prioritizing connection over content transformed his career and the industry.Discover the philosophy behind podcasting’s most intimate moments, the power of internal podcasts, and why the best studios are built on empathy and service. This is a masterclass in reinvention, creativity, and the art of truly listening.What You'll Learn:Why “intimacy” is the secret ingredient that makes podcasting so powerful—and how to harness it.The story behind Podville Media’s evolution from “Podcast Village” and the rise of video in audio spaces.How Charlie’s background in real estate and philanthropy shaped his approach to building creative businesses.The philosophy and inspiration behind “The Tao of Podcasting”—and why every podcaster needs a moment of silence before the sound.How music, family, and hobbies fuel creativity and keep the entrepreneurial spirit alive.Timestamps:00:00 – Meeting at Podfest: The serendipity that sparked a creative partnership04:30 – From Golf Courses to Podcast Studios: Reinventing a career through curiosity10:15 – The Birth of Podville Media: Why video changed everything17:40 – The Tao of Podcasting: Philosophy, art, and the “yin-yang microphone”25:05 – The Power of Internal Podcasts: Connecting companies from the inside out32:20 – Music, Community, and Giving Back: How folk music and charity shape a life39:00 – Lightning Round: Favorite mics, dream guests, and the “boredom boogie” songConnect with Our Guest:Website: https://podvillemedia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliebirney/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podvillemedia/Book: The Tao of Podcasting (Amazon) – https://www.amazon.com/Tao-Podcasting-Charlie-Birney/dp/B0C5YJ8K9F

What if the secret to thriving isn’t about being the toughest in the room, but the most adaptable?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Rand Selig—veteran investment banker, author of "Thriving," and master of intentional living—to uncover the hidden strategies behind building a life and career filled with purpose, energy, and fulfillment.From turning down a giant corporate offer to redefining what it means to be successful, Rand shares raw stories and practical tools for anyone ready to break free from society’s expectations. Discover how resilience, relationships, and a service mindset can transform setbacks into opportunities—and why your only real competition is the person in the mirror.What You'll Learn: Why resilience is about bouncing back, not just being tough—think rubber ball, not metal. The power of saying “no” to deals that don’t align with your values, even when Goliath comes knocking. How to stop letting society define your success and start living by your own standards. The three pillars of a thriving mindset: service, intentional relationships, and relentless positivity. Why your greatest growth comes from evolving past your former self—not outshining others.Timestamps: 00:00 – The Rubber Ball vs. The Metal Ball: What True Resilience Looks Like 04:15 – David vs. Goliath: Turning Down a Giant and Winning Your Freedom 10:30 – Redefining Success: Are You Living for Yourself or for Society? 16:45 – The Man in the Mirror: Competing with Your Former Self 21:20 – The Power of Mentorship and Building Your Support Circle 26:00 – Three Tools for Thriving: Service, Relationships, and Positivity 32:10 – Star Trek, Beekeepers, and the Secret to Attracting Opportunity**Guest Links:** Website: randselig.com LinkedIn: Rand Selig on LinkedIn Book: "Thriving" by Rand Selig on Amazon Instagram: @randselig

What if thriving isn’t about chasing someone else’s definition of success, but about making intentional choices every single day?In this powerful episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with entrepreneur, coach, and conservationist Rand Selig, author of "Thriving," to uncover the real science and psychology behind living a life of vitality, fulfillment, and meaning.Rand shares the untold story behind his book, the daily habits that fuel his energy, and the mindset shifts that separate those who merely survive from those who truly thrive. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, emotional depth, and the kind of curiosity-driven insights that will make you rethink what’s possible in your own life.What You'll Learn:Thriving starts with intentional choices and self-awareness—write down your values and revisit them often.Success is personal: define it on your own terms, not by society’s standards.Building resilience means embracing new chapters, learning from mistakes, and staying curious.Energy and vitality are sustained by daily habits, self-care, and knowing when to recharge.True connection comes from being present, reflecting on experiences, and nurturing relationships.Timestamps:00:04 – The Untold Story Behind "Thriving": Why Rand Wrote the Book03:15 – The Power of Intentional Choices: How to Design Your Life06:01 – Redefining Success: Why You Must Own Your Definition08:45 – Slowing Down to Reflect: Lessons from the Pandemic10:03 – The Psychology of Thriving: Practical Tools for Growth13:41 – Daily Habits for Energy and Joy: Rand’s Personal Rituals17:03 – Life Lessons from Geology: Embracing Change and CuriosityConnect with Our Guest:Website: [Rand Selig’s Website]LinkedIn: [Rand Selig on LinkedIn]Instagram: [@RandSelig]Book: ["Thriving" by Rand Selig]