Going Beyond the Deal

What would you give to build a business that actually supports your life, not competes with it?Vanessa Quigley, co-founder of Chatbooks and mother of seven, reveals the raw, uplifting story behind turning everyday family chaos into a brand that disrupts an entire industry.In this episode, J. Michael Fisher Jr. goes deep with Vanessa on performing under pressure, the unexpected resilience of busy parents, and the pivotal moment where nostalgia changed everything. They pull back the curtain on life-first company culture, the illusion of “perfect” business journeys, and the radical clarity it takes to lead at work and at home.Skip this, and risk getting trapped in a business that burns you out. Listen now for exclusive, hard-won wisdom you won’t find anywhere else. Your sanity and your future self will thank you.Timestamped Highlights[00:01:32] – From opera dreams to motherhood: When life throws you a creative plot twist[00:03:38] – The heart-stopping moment of mom guilt that sparked Chatbooks’ invention[00:05:30] – Can being a performer secretly make you a stronger entrepreneur?[00:13:32] – Why seeing “take my money!” beats a decade of polite indifference[00:17:19] – The unexpected upside and stress of co-founding a company with your spouse[00:20:24] – The revolutionary power of “subscribing to your life”… and why customers obsessed over it[00:33:06] – Be a grownup: Vanessa’s approach to boundaries and real-life culture at work[00:43:09] – When doing business your way finally clicks, and how to own your unique journeyMentioned ResourcesInstagramSubstackMake A Wish FoundationBest Friends Animal SocietyUnited WayMetaUtah Foster Family NetworkThe Stone Pony (music venue)About the GuestVanessa Quigley is the Co-Founder and Chatbooker in Chief at Chatbooks, the innovative company helping millions of families turn everyday photos into meaningful, lasting keepsakes with zero fuss. A proud mother of seven and passionate storyteller, Vanessa brings a performer’s flair, a parent’s heart, and over a decade of hands-on brand-building experience to her leadership at Chatbooks. She’s a sought-after voice on entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and the life-changing power of family memories.🔗

Ever wonder why some businesses become buyer magnets while others stay stuck in chaos? If you crave real transformation, scalable process, robust culture, and exit-ready performance, this masterclass will arm you with proven, uncommon tools to win. Host J. Michael Fisher Jr. sits down with Nio Queiro, CEO and founder of The Queiro Group, whose 35-year career in healthcare and M&A has reshaped companies from the inside out.You’ll discover surprising strategies for engaging teams, turning crisis into catalytic change, and using AI to thrive, not just survive. From overcoming stagnant leadership to fixing cashflow leaks, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for business owners who want more than just a deal; they want victory.Don’t settle for business as usual when the stakes are this high. Listen now to escape the pain of lost value, missed growth, and mediocre exits. This episode delivers exclusive secrets you won’t find anywhere else, only for listeners ready to level up now.Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – What happens when a masterclass mindset collides with a career-defining health crisis[00:03:41] – Why “transformation” isn’t what most consultants claim and how reframing drives deal-winning momentum[00:05:44] – The real reason entrepreneurs must sometimes “drive their own boat” (warning: silver-haired resistance ahead)[00:08:31] – The controversial strategy that builds trust from the ground up, not the C-suite down[00:12:20] – How communication (and a simple “call to action”) can flip a broken culture into unstoppable execution[00:14:59] – Two types of Cairo clients and the surprising innovation secret most leadership teams miss[00:22:14] – When top leaders are the example (and when culture clashes force an expert to tap out)[00:27:12] – AI without the hype—why most healthcare “automation” is stuck in the past, and what you REALLY need to ask now[00:32:43] – Where businesses bleed cash without knowing it (hint: it’s not just healthcare…and it’s NOT staff cuts)[00:47:09] – The tiny failure at Deloitte that forever changed Nio’s approach to leadership and team unityMentioned ResourcesHuman-centered leadership architectureMcKinsey AI adoption report (89% by 2026 reference)Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA)Kaiser PermanenteMayo ClinicChildren’s Hospital Los Angelesa...

Are you secretly frustrated by “trust issues” in the contractor world, wondering if it’s possible to build a business where clients genuinely love, trust, and recommend you? What if the answer isn’t slick sales tactics, but radical honesty and a relentless commitment to service?In this high-voltage episode, Continental Roof Company President Carlos Sanchez joins host J. Michael Fisher Jr. for a raw, revealing conversation about reputation, legacy, and the counterintuitive moves that turn customers into raving fans, even in an industry where skepticism runs deep. From life lessons as a child of immigrants to giving away roofs and refusing to compromise on quality, Carlos shares actionable gems on trust, hiring, and why giving is his business’s real superpower.Stop bleeding trust and missing out on referrals. Tune in now to unlock exclusive, proven mindset shifts you won’t hear from typical “business gurus.” Listen before you lose another deal to the lowest bid.Timestamped Highlights[00:00] "People will buy from you if they like you"—Carlos reveals the trust-building code contractors ignore [00:05:41] Why learning insurance from the inside changed everything—profit, respect, and partnership secrets [00:07:43] Hated his job, nearly quit until THIS moment changed his purpose forever [00:10:14] The most expensive mistakes Carlos made (and what he'd tell every new service founder to avoid) [00:15:21] Exposing the wild price gaps: Why you might pay double with no extra value and how smart buyers fight back [00:17:33] The one standard he refuses to compromise plus, the dangerous shortcuts that doom other roofers [00:20:33] Exactly how he turns every customer into a "story worth sharing" and keeps referral engines running hot [00:32:30] Revolutionary "Project Parasol": How giving away roofs turned into a brand (and why you're missing out if you're not giving more)Mentioned ResourcesBusiness Network International (BNI)Butler County Board of Developmental DisabilitiesBetter Business Bureau (Cincinnati)Torch Award for EthicsAbout the GuestCarlos Sanchez is the President of Continental Roof Company, the Cincinnati-based roofing leader known for operational excellence and a relentless focus on trust, referrals, and real community impact. Since 2009, Carlos has transformed his business from skeptical upstart to a multi-award-winning, integrity-driven powerhouse by doing things few competitors dare, giving away roofs, refusing to cut corners, and building a culture where giving isn’t a marketing ploy, it’s the mission.🔗 LinkedIn | WebsiteImportant LinksFollow my blog here: a...

Ever wondered why some entertainment businesses create obsession while others fizzle out? Are you craving a smart way to reinvent guest spaces, thrill your customers, and actually monetize “dead” square footage?In this exclusive episode, J. Michael Fisher Jr. welcomes TJ Schier, CEO and founder of Smash Swing Immersive Golf, for a revealing, relationship-first conversation on shaping unforgettable guest experiences. From Chuck E. Cheese to multi-million dollar drive-thru chains, TJ shows why old playbooks don’t cut it and how he’s rewriting the rules for indoor golf, socializing, and competitive fun. They dig deep into building emotional loyalty, surviving the copycat trap, and the bold moves driving Smash Swing’s national launch.Don’t wait! Each minute of this episode peels back what most founders miss, and why your next big win may depend on these electrifying lessons. Miss it, and you risk letting your greatest assets (and brand momentum) slip away. Listen now for candid, proven insights you won’t find anywhere else.Timestamped Highlights[00:01] – Why a Jersey kid chose West Point, and what it revealed about real purpose[00:22] – The “Aha!” moment: Can military leadership really transfer into biotech?[00:53] – How ONL Therapeutics protects vision—what most execs miss about relentless innovation[01:48] – The moment family, community, and business shaped a calling to serve[03:33] – Crushing self-doubt: Inside the pressure cooker of leading teams when everything’s at stake[08:32] – What top business athletes, Green Berets, and private equity stars share—The secret ingredient[13:35] – The 3 proven leadership lessons that build unstoppable companies (and why most miss #3)[23:48] – Real talk: Managing fatigue, optimism, and the brutal truth when the gut punches keep comingMentioned ResourcesChuck E. CheesePals Sudden ServiceSavannah BananasWhich Wich SandwichesBig Shots GolfTopgolfChasing Aces (Shreveport)3’s (Greenville, SC)Auto Tee SystemCallawaya...

Are you an executive or business owner secretly wrestling with doubt, fatigue, or fear that your leadership might not be enough in the next storm? What if you could tap into the hard-won secrets of a leader forged in war and tested in biotech’s wildest innovation cycles?This episode is a high-voltage sit-down between J. Michael Fisher Jr. and David Esposito, CEO of ONL Therapeutics and decorated former Army officer. Together, they crack open the reality of modern leadership, reveal the invisible thread between military service and world-class execution, and share unfiltered routines for resilience and team alignment in chaos.Listen now if you want to escape the pain of unanchored teams, avoid costly self-doubt, and grab exclusive tools that only proven leaders are teaching. Stakes are high, innovation waits for no one, and these lessons aren’t in any playbook… yet.Timestamped Highlights[00:01] – Why a Jersey kid chose West Point, and what it revealed about real purpose[00:22] – The “Aha!” moment: Can military leadership really transfer into biotech?[00:53] – How ONL Therapeutics protects vision—what most execs miss about relentless innovation[01:48] – The moment family, community, and business shaped a calling to serve[03:33] – Crushing self-doubt: Inside the pressure cooker of leading teams when everything’s at stake[08:32] – What top business athletes, Green Berets, and private equity stars share—The secret ingredient[13:35] – The 3 proven leadership lessons that build unstoppable companies (and why most miss #3)[23:48] – Real talk: Managing fatigue, optimism, and the brutal truth when the gut punches keep comingMentioned ResourcesUniversity of Michigan (Dr. David Zaks)West Point101st Airborne Division (U.S. Army)Bronze Star MedalNIH – National Institutes of HealthAbout the GuestDavid Esposito is the CEO of ONL Therapeutics, a cutting-edge biotech company pioneering life-changing treatments to prevent retinal cell death and preserve vision. A former Army platoon leader awarded the Bronze Star, David is known for his unmatched resilience and ability to transpose battlefield clarity into executive mastery. With more than 30 years in life sciences, he’s led teams through both soaring exits and humbling failures, always championing purpose and people above the transaction.🔗 LinkedIn | WebsiteImportant LinksFollow my blog here:

What if you could add a decade or more of vibrant, high-performance living to your life, starting now? In this electrifying episode, J. Michael Fisher Jr. sits down with Jean Fallacara, scientist, serial entrepreneur, and founder of Lifespan, to decode the real science (and the misunderstood buzz) behind biohacking for busy leaders. From building $100M companies on only four hours of work daily to practical strategies for outsmarting burnout and building true resilience, Speaker B reveals what actually moves the needle for high achievers.You’ll get straight talk (and specific tips) on how to reclaim your health span, optimize work blocks for explosive focus, and create routines even skeptics can stick with. Don’t miss the battle-tested blueprint that could literally change—maybe even save—your life.Listen now: the cost of inaction is years of lost vitality, thriving, and leadership edge. The only place you’ll hear these transformative, exclusive tactics is in this episode.Timestamped Highlights[00:01:00] – What “biohacking” actually means (and why we shouldn’t need a word for it)[00:06:18] – From selling postcards on the street to $32M exits: Speaker B's origin story[00:11:29] – The biggest entrepreneurship myth: why sleep deprivation signals failure, not hustle[00:12:40] – How Speaker B ran a 205-person company in just four hours a day[00:17:26] – The plan B trap: the brutal indicator you’re not cut out for this[00:22:42] – The unexpected science (and danger) of ignoring your body’s natural cycles[00:28:57] – “Start with data, but don’t obsess”—the surprising dark side of tracking everything[00:41:10] – Five tiny daily tweaks that can instantly impact your longevity and performanceMentioned ResourcesMonroe Institute Hemi-SyncWhoopŌura RingFisher ScientificBook: Peter Attia, MD (on healthspan)Andon SoundGrant CardoneCharles Scott (Intel Chief of Staff)Andrew Huberman (Huberman Lab, circadian rhythm science)About the GuestJean Fallacara is the founder and CEO of Lifespan, a breakthrough longevity platform making radical health optimization accessible to everyone. A...

Ever felt trapped by your own success, secretly craving a reboot but fearing what’s next?This isn’t just another ex-exec startup story. Eric Frankel, former Warner Bros. President turned founder of AdGreetz, sits down with J. Michael Fisher Jr. for a raw, revealing conversation on what it truly takes to leap from a billion-dollar seat into entrepreneurship, without a safety net. They dig into the hidden emotional costs, the rush of early wins, and the guts required to walk away from the familiar and reimagine what’s possible (even after 30 years at the top).If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to reinvent your life, build a next-level team, and find meaning beyond the deal, press play now. The pain of staying stuck is real, and the window to thrive is closing. This episode offers unfiltered, exclusive takeaways for leaders who don’t just want to win, they want to matter.Timestamped Highlights[00:01:27] – How a single call from the chairman turned a lifelong New Yorker into a Los Angeles media boss[00:04:04] – The boyhood obsession with film that shaped a future executive—and the “aha” moment of radical delegation[00:09:26] – When the right story lands, doors fling open: The secret portfolio that made competitive hiring a breeze[00:12:53] – Navigating money, family, and meaning: Why he walked away from millions (twice) to start over[00:19:54] – The simple trigger behind AdGreetz: Realizing brands never talk “to” you, just “at” you[00:29:32] – Are you a “cat in the data mine”? How AdGreetz wins at personalization without crossing the line[00:36:34] – Why B2B targeting is harder and what most sales teams still get wrong in 2024[00:44:00] – Frankel’s daily success routine: trainers, sleep, boundaries… and admitting when to take the LMentioned ResourcesBizGreetzWarner Bros.Syracuse University Concert CommitteeFred Silverman (TV programming legend)NikeKiehl’sBarney’s New YorkColumbia HouseStone Pony (music venue)Cole HaanSalesforce and

What if the secret to scaling a tech business wasn’t just strategy but soul?In this deeply human conversation, Michael sits down with Nexus IT Consultants founder and CEO Earl Foote to unpack how he’s built one of the fastest-growing managed IT and cybersecurity firms in the country, not through hustle and grind alone, but by leading with creativity, culture, and conviction.From musician to entrepreneur, Earl shares how art and architecture led him to tech, and how aligning people with purpose is now the fuel behind Nexus’ 40%+ organic growth. Whether you’re an MSP founder thinking about your next chapter, or a leader navigating scale in a crowded market, this episode reveals what’s possible when you stop chasing transactions and start building something bigger.This isn’t your average IT conversation. It’s a masterclass in building a movement.Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Meet Earl Foote: CEO of Nexus IT and creator of a people-first tech culture[00:02:00] – Why Nexus only hires growth-minded, mission-aligned people[00:04:00] – The philosophy behind building a world-class team environment[00:06:00] – From dropping out to play music… to building a multimillion-dollar firm[00:10:00] – Creativity as a competitive edge in business[00:14:00] – How an e-commerce experiment led to a cybersecurity empire[00:20:00] – Inside Nexus’ non-dilutive growth strategy (and 8 MSP acquisitions)[00:23:00] – Why Earl is the acquirer founders actually want to work with[00:29:00] – What’s the endgame? Earl’s long-term vision for Nexus and legacy[00:33:00] – What “world-class service” really looks like—and how Nexus measures it[00:38:00] – Red flags to avoid when choosing an MSP partner[00:41:00] – How to connect with Earl (and maybe even jam on guitars in Salt Lake)[00:42:00] – One small moment that changed everything: surviving a major fraud eventMentioned ResourcesEntrepreneurs’ Organization (EO)Nexus IT Growth & M&A InsightsEddie Van Halen and FrankenstratThe Five Dimensions of Vitality by Michael J. FischerAbout the GuestEarl Foote is the founder and CEO of Nexus IT Consultants, a nationally recognized cybersecurity and IT firm that has scaled through purpose-driven leadership and intentional culture. With over 25 years of experience, Earl is known for bringing art and humanity into the tech world, serving high-compliance industries with world-class service while building an award-winning company people love working for.🔗 LinkedIn 📧 Email 🌐 WebsiteImportant LinksFollow my blog here:

What if your next business opportunity wasn’t about building from scratch, but building smarter?In this conversation, Michael reconnects with longtime friend and franchise entrepreneur Jeff Silbert, co-founder of 10 Hand & Stone locations and regional developer for Moxie Salon. Jeff shares how he went from coding at Accenture to scaling membership-based wellness brands and why his sweet spot isn’t startups at zero, but businesses just past lift-off.They talk about what makes a franchise model work, how to identify scalable opportunities, and why people, process, and passion are the core of every successful expansion. Whether you’re exploring entrepreneurship, looking to scale a service business, or curious about entering the wellness space, this episode is full of lessons from the trenches of brand-building.And if you’re wondering how to grow your business without burning out? This one’s a masterclass in doing it the right way with clarity, conviction, and a tight inner circle.Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Meet Jeff Silbert: Hand & Stone co-founder and Moxie regional developer[00:01:20] – From Accenture to entrepreneurship: Jeff’s early path to business ownership[00:03:14] – Why he doesn’t like “idea-stage” businesses and what gets him excited instead[00:05:00] – The power of the membership model: funnel thinking, retention, and revenue stability[00:07:00] – Balancing the franchise playbook with entrepreneurial creativity[00:08:45] – Why great franchisees are coachable and aligned with the brand’s vision[00:11:32] – Can the average person really enter the franchise world? Here’s how.[00:14:00] – Why Jeff and his brother diversified into Moxie after 10 Hand & Stone locations[00:17:00] – Moxie’s team-based salon model and how it flips the stylist/client dynamic[00:20:00] – Building culture without relying on individual “star” stylists[00:23:00] – The dig in the neighborhood: why the wellness space is bigger than business[00:25:00] – What COVID taught them and how loyal members saved the business[00:27:00] – How Jeff maintains vitality: people, boundaries, and the power of EO[00:33:34] – The moment that changed everything: investing in long-term friendships[00:36:14] – Thinking about a franchise? Jeff shares who Moxie is looking forMentioned ResourcesMoxie Salons & Beauty BarsHand & Stone Massage and Facial SpaEntrepreneurs’ Organization (EO)P90X by Tony HortonDanny Meyer’s book a...

What if the secret to long-term success isn’t about who you can work with but who you refuse to?In this candid solo episode, Michael J. Fischer breaks down a principle that’s shaped both his personal and professional life: The No Asshole Rule. From his early years as a “baby banker” grinding through endless networking events to his current role as Managing Director at DBD Investment Bank, Michael shares how saying no to misaligned clients, partners, and even bosses became the key to protecting his energy and integrity.You’ll hear what happens when you chase every deal out of desperation, why gut instincts are your most underused business tool, and how real success starts with one simple rule—only work with people whose values match yours.If you’ve ever felt drained by the wrong client, team, or deal, this episode is your reminder that boundaries aren’t arrogance; they’re leadership.Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – What “Going Beyond the Deal” really means for Michael Fischer[00:01:00] – Introducing the No Asshole Rule and why it changed everything[00:01:45] – The early days as a “baby banker” with a $3.5M goal and no filter[00:03:00] – Thousands of handshakes, thousands of business cards, and total burnout[00:04:00] – The annual reset that sparks every rainmaker’s anxiety[00:05:00] – The heavy cost of saying yes to misaligned clients[00:06:00] – Trust your gut: why your first impression is usually right[00:07:00] – Red flags to watch for and the “Would I invite them to dinner?” test[00:08:00] – What happens when alignment meets energy—it’s magical[00:08:45] – Saying no doesn’t make you rude—it makes you a leader[00:09:10] – A look ahead: The Five Dimensions of Vitality and why protecting your circle mattersMentioned ResourcesThe Five Dimensions of Vitality (upcoming book by Michael J. Fischer)Important LinksFollow my blog here: https://rebrand.ly/7e3544 Book a call with us: https://rebrand.ly/dbd-investment-47fca2 Going Beyond the Deal is an original podcast brought to you by J. Michael Fischer Jr. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if your greatest opportunity for growth starts the moment your comfort zone ends?In this powerful solo episode, J. Michael Fischer, Jr. shares a raw, personal reflection on how personal development transformed not just his career but his identity. From working as a janitor and rebuilding alternators to becoming Managing Director at a bespoke investment bank, Michael reveals the pivotal mindset shifts that helped him rewrite his life in his 40s.You’ll hear how COVID offered a catalyst, why he traded a cushy salary for entrepreneurship, and the honest truth about what it takes to design your “Second Half Playbook.”If you’re coasting in a career that no longer excites you, this episode is your urgent wake-up call. Hit play now to discover why the second half of your life deserves your boldest moves and why the cost of delay is steeper than you think.Mentioned ResourcesMichael’s “Second Half Playbook” article on LinkedInTony Robbins' podcast on midlife transformationImportant LinksFollow my blog here: https://rebrand.ly/7e3544 Book a call with us: https://rebrand.ly/dbd-investment-47fca2Going Beyond the Deal is an original podcast brought to you by J. Michael Fischer Jr. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if the future of business isn’t just about hiring more people, but about creating organizations where humans and AI collaborate to unlock 100x growth?In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal Podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Amos Bar Joseph, co-founder and CEO of Swan AI, a company building AI agents designed to transform go-to-market operations for modern businesses. Amos shares how his childhood in a scientific community and his early career in game theory shaped his approach to problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and building companies that scale intelligently rather than just adding headcount.From founding and selling two startups, including one that worked with major airlines worldwide, to pioneering the concept of an “autonomous business,” Amos explains why companies of the future will empower employees to work in their zone of genius while AI handles the repetitive, mundane tasks. This episode dives into AI adoption, organizational culture, mental health, and the radical ways technology is reshaping business.Learn why ruthless prioritization and self-care are the keys to thriving as an entrepreneur in the AI era. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why AI is one of the most intuitive technologies ever created, and how to embrace it in your businessHow to identify and operate within your “zone of genius”Why the future of work is about autonomy and vision alignment, not bureaucracyHow Amos scaled Swan to over 200 customers with a three-person founding teamThe mental habits that help entrepreneurs avoid burnoutWhy marketing is about emotions, not just analyticsHow AI agents can 100x the effectiveness of every employeeAnd much more…Guest Bio:Amos Bar Joseph is the co-founder and CEO of Swan AI, a company on a mission to build the first truly autonomous business by leveraging AI agents to transform go-to-market operations. An entrepreneur at heart, Amos previously founded and sold two tech companies. A graduate of Tel Aviv University’s PPE honors program, he is passionate about game theory, entrepreneurship, and helping businesses scale with intelligence rather than headcount.Resources:Connect with Amos on LinkedIn Subscribe to The Big Shift NewsletterImportant LinksFollow my blog here: https://rebrand.ly/7e3544Book a call with us:

What would make someone leave a high-paying Big Four accounting career, take a 50% pay cut, and join a four-person startup with no systems in place? And how do you grow that business into a globally recognized health and wellness brand?In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal Podcast, host J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Chase Ramey, CFO of Organifi, a purpose-driven supplement company known for its high-quality, efficacious products. Chase shares how burnout early in his career pushed him to reevaluate his path, leading him to Organifi, where he rebuilt his health, career, and personal life while helping scale the company from a tiny office in San Diego to a brand trusted worldwide.Chase reflects on the lessons learned from Deloitte, why personality and people skills matter more than technical complexity, and the challenges of balancing a visionary founder’s big ideas with the financial realities of a bootstrapped business. He also discusses building a life connected to nature, working alongside his wife, and putting priorities in the right order so that career supports life, not the other way around.Thinking about leaving corporate life for something more meaningful? Learn how Chase made the leap and why it paid off. If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why burnout can be the catalyst for finding purpose and alignmentHow Chase went from Deloitte to Organifi and why he took a massive pay cutThe importance of learning to manage risk and cash flow Why novelty and routine together create long-term fulfillmentHow Organifi has scaled without outside capital while staying true to its missionWhy lifestyle choices matter more than supplements and how to use them to fill the gapsHow to prioritize relationships and health while building a successful careerThe power of listening to your intuition and acting on small nudgesAnd much more…Guest Bio:Chase Ramey is the CFO of Organifi, a leading health and wellness company dedicated to creating high-quality, efficacious supplements. With a background in accounting at Deloitte, Chase combines financial expertise with operational strategy to help scale Organifi without outside capital. Resources:Connect with Chase on LinkedInFollow Chase on InstagramOrganifi TheMedicin Important

What happens when you achieve everything you thought would bring happiness — and still feel empty?In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal Podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Reggie Ford, a TEDx speaker, bestselling author of Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction, and founder of the Vulnerability Muscle framework. Reggie shares his extraordinary journey from growing up in poverty and chaos to building a successful career in finance, only to realize that money alone couldn’t solve the deepest challenges.Through raw honesty and powerful insights, Reggie opens up about grief, shame, and the breaking point that led him to redefine his life. He explains how vulnerability became his greatest strength, why storytelling matters, and how he helps others build resilience, self-awareness, and purpose. This conversation is about much more than success; it’s about learning to love yourself, heal from pain, and create impact by being authentic.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why money only solves money problems, and what really drives fulfillmentThe importance of checking in with yourself and others to prevent burnoutHow compartmentalizing emotions can help you survive — and why it eventually breaks downWhy sharing your story can transform shame into connectionHow vulnerability builds stronger relationships and makes you a better leaderThe pervasive belief that “we are not enough”, and how to reframe itPractical strategies for gratitude, self-talk, and living with more love and purposeAnd much more…Guest Bio:Reggie Ford is a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. His bestselling book, Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction, is a powerful memoir about trauma, healing, and the journey from pain to peace. As the founder of the Vulnerability Muscle framework, Reggie helps corporate leaders and organizations build emotionally intelligent cultures rooted in trust, resilience, and psychological safety. He is also the host of the Vulnerability Muscle podcast, where leaders and changemakers open up about what it means to lead with heart.Resources:ReggiedFord.com Connect with Reggie on LinkedIn Follow Reggie on InstagramFollow Reggie on Facebook

What does it take to walk away from a secure, successful career in commercial banking to pursue something entirely new?In this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Blake Balsamo, Executive Director, Americas at i2i Logic. Blake shares how he transitioned from being one of New Jersey’s most well-known commercial bankers to helping transform the way bankers and clients interact through data-driven insights.From the challenges of leaving behind stability to embrace uncertainty, to his vision for the future of commercial banking in an AI-driven world, Blake offers an insightful look at risk-taking, reinvention, and why being “comfortable with being uncomfortable” is the key to growth.Hear why Blake believes generative AI will reshape the future of banking and how to prepare for it today. If you've enjoyed this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why Blake chose to leave a successful career in commercial banking to join i2i LogicThe role of mentors and trusted advisors in making career-defining decisionsWhy every banker should start in risk managementThe frustrations clients face with repetitive banking pitches, and how to break that cycleHow i2i Logic helps bankers create deeper, more meaningful conversations with clientsThe impact of generative AI on the future of banking and client relationshipsWhy mentors, habits, and hobbies are essential to avoiding burnout and staying effectiveAnd much more…Guest Bio:Blake Balsamo is the Executive Director, Americas at i2i Logic, a fintech company transforming how bankers engage clients through data and insights. A former top commercial banker in New Jersey, Blake built his career at institutions like Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan Chase before taking the leap into fintech.Resources:Connect with Blake on LinkedIn i2i Logic Book Mentioned: The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People...

How do you build a brand in the digital age without falling for hype, gimmicks, or empty metrics?In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, host J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with Abe Kasbo, marketing strategist, entrepreneur, and author of the upcoming book Irresponsibly Digital, to unpack what’s really working in marketing today. With over two decades of experience leading successful campaigns and advising top-tier brands, Abe brings a rare blend of insight, candor, and hard-earned wisdom.From his immigrant roots to leading a business built on clarity and strategy, Abe’s journey is rich with lessons in resilience, authenticity, and disciplined thinking. He shares how relying on instinct has often served him better than overthinking, why the American brand still holds unmatched global influence, and how marketers can stop “dropping bombs” and start asking smarter questions.Whether you're a business owner, marketing leader, or someone who simply wants to make better decisions in a noisy world, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable perspective.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why strategic prioritization beats scattered, unfocused marketing effortsHow Abe uses instinct and experience to guide high-stakes decisionsWhat makes the American brand so globally powerfulWhy some marketing works—and some simply doesn’tThe problem with “marketing bombs” and one-size-fits-all tacticsHow to be more self-critical without being self-destructiveWhy getting into the weeds is essential to truly serving your clientsHow Abe’s immigrant experience shaped his grit and perspectiveAnd much more…Guest Bio:Abe Kasbo is the Founder and CEO of Verasoni, a marketing communications advisory and agency serving Fortune 500, middle-market, and startup clients worldwide. He advises C-Suite executives on branding, communications, and public relations, and has been featured in major outlets including The New York Times, Forbes, and PBS. Abe is also the producer and director of the acclaimed PBS documentary The Arab Americans and the author of the upcoming book Irresponsibly Digital.Resources:Irresponsibly Digital Verasoni Connect with Abe on LinkedInImportant LinksFollow my blog here:

What if financing your business didn’t feel like being capped by traditional bank constraints or compromising majority control and equity? In this insightful episode of Going Beyond the Deal, J. Michael Fischer sits down with George Alifragis to explore how private credit is reshaping the world of business financing.George opens up about his personal entrepreneurial journey and how that experience shaped his view on capital, optionality, and work-life integration. He explains why certain private credit partners offer more than just funding—it provides flexibility, operational support, and relationship-driven growth partnerships. Whether you’re a founder preparing for expansion or simply rethinking your financing strategy, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire new perspectives.If your 2025 strategy includes growth, optionality, and smart partnerships, don’t miss what’s coming next. Also, if you've enjoyed this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why private credit is gaining ground as the future of financingThe difference between traditional lending and relationship-driven private creditWhen private credit is most impactful, particularly as true growth capitalHow to create optionality for your business and protect your equityWhy entrepreneurs should plan to "make plan"—not just hope for outcomesHow George views work-life integration instead of balanceThe mindset shift needed to enjoy and grow through your work hoursWhy authenticity and fulfillment are critical to personal and professional successAnd much more…Guest Bio:George Alifragis is the Senior Vice President at Metropolitan Partners Group, bringing nearly two decades of experience as a trilingual revenue leader, GTM operator, and award-winning partnerships strategist. Throughout his career, he has consistently exceeded growth objectives, delivering transformative results across industries. George is known for his data-driven approach to strategic planning, scaling and his expertise in business development, brand building, ecosystem growth, and cross-functional collaboration. With a passion for helping founders grow, build optionality, preserve equity, and thrive both professionally and personally, George stands out as a top-tier communication, thought leader and innovation driver in the world of private credit and beyond.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Resources:Connect with George on LinkedInImportant LinksFollow my blog here: https://rebrand.ly/7e3544Book a call with us: a...

What happens when a high-performing sales engineer with ADHD launches a nootropics company from scratch and actually makes it work?In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. sits down with TJ Bongiorno, founder of Ramp Health, for a dynamic and wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, brain performance, personal development, and building a business that aligns with who you truly are. From selling knockoff sneakers in Queens to launching a science-backed supplement brand while raising a toddler, TJ’s story is equal parts hustle, experimentation, and purpose.You’ll hear how he bootstrapped his startup with just a presale and a Shopify store, what nootropics actually are (and how to use them), and why he believes launching a business is the fastest path to self-actualization. Whether you're a founder, biohacker, or professional chasing your next level, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable gems.Curious how a nootropics founder with ADHD bootstrapped a supplement brand while raising a toddler? TJ Bongiorno shares how he turned his brain chemistry into a business advantage and built Ramp Health from a presale and a purpose. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurship can become the most powerful tool for self-awareness, resilience, and legacy.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:How TJ went from selling fake sneakers to launching a health brandTJ’s lean approach to testing a business idea with just $12K in presalesWhat nootropics are, how they work, and how to use them safelyHow TJ turned ADHD into an entrepreneurial advantageWhat entrepreneurship taught TJ about himself and the impostor syndromeHow to test a business idea in under 30 minutes with AI and $25 in adsWhat legacy means to a founder balancing business, fatherhood, and purposeAnd much more…Guest Bio:TJ Bongiorno is the founder of Aurenza and Ramp Health, a nootropics and wellness brand focused on performance, clarity, and harm reduction. With a background in sales engineering and tech, TJ bootstrapped his supplement company while raising a toddler and working full-time. Diagnosed with ADHD, he’s on a mission to help professionals unlock their cognitive edge through evidence-backed formulas. TJ shares his entrepreneurial journey transparently on social media and is building not just a business, but a legacy for his family and future generations.Resources:Ramp HealthConnect with TJ on LinkedIn Follow TJ on X

What does it mean to build a business around purpose instead of profit?In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Trent Steele, founder of the Anti-Predator Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating human trafficking and sexual predators in the United States through the use of specially trained private investigators. Alongside their investigative and protective services for victims, the organization is also deeply committed to educating the public about the true scope of human trafficking across the country.Trent shares what it takes to operate in one of the most emotionally and operationally demanding spaces, how his personal mission has evolved, and why choosing impact over income has changed his entire definition of success. He also opens up about the leadership challenges, the emotional weight of rescue work, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in something bigger than themselves.Want to know what it really means to build a career around purpose instead of profit? In this episode, Trent Steele shares his story of fighting human trafficking through nonprofit work—and how choosing impact over income changed his life. If you're feeling stuck or searching for more meaning in your work, this conversation will shift your perspective. Hit play and hear what happens when you follow your mission, not just the money.If you've enjoyed this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why Trent created the Anti-Predator Project and how it fills a critical gap in law enforcement effortsThe emotional and personal transformation that comes from doing mission-driven workHow living with gratitude and purpose reshaped Trent’s life and perspectiveThe challenges of nonprofit work and why more funding = more lives helpedHow small decisions can lead to massive changes in life and careerWhy purpose outweighs any paycheckHow to support the Anti-Predator Project and get involvedAnd much more…Guest Bio:Trent Steele is the founder and CEO of the Anti-Predator Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating human trafficking and sexual predators in the U.S. through the use of specially trained private investigators. With a strong background in law enforcement and emergency management, Trent brings extensive expertise in crisis response, intelligence, and computer forensics.Resources:Connect with Trent on LinkedInAnti-Predator Project Follow the Anti-Predator Project on...

In this episode of the Going Beyond the Deal podcast, J. Michael Fischer Jr. speaks with Jeff Parnell, a seasoned CEO, advisor, and author with deep expertise in helping businesses navigate major transitions. With decades of experience spanning ecommerce, consumer goods, food manufacturing, and more, Jeff shares how his work with companies of all sizes, especially family-owned and private-equity-backed businesses, has helped them achieve clarity and direction during high-stakes periods of change.Listeners will hear insights on what makes or breaks a transition plan, why succession is about more than leadership change, and how owners can build scalable value while preparing for a smooth exit. Jeff also discusses the importance of outside advisory voices, the emotional dynamics of business succession, and how his work at JHP Advisors supports CEOs in developing a clear vision for the future.Curious how to exit your business with both value and peace of mind? This episode unpacks the emotional, financial, and strategic layers behind successful transitions—press play to get ahead of the curve. If you've enjoyed this episode of Going Beyond the Deal podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today! Enjoy!Key takeaways:Why being honest with yourself is essential before any major business transitionThe role of ego, pride, and emotional readiness in exiting your businessHow to identify and work with a truly effective advisorWhat qualities to look for in someone supporting your transition (and what to avoid)The importance of asking good questions over having all the answersHow Jeff’s personal mission to “help people come out the other side” shapes his workAnd much more…Guest Bio:Jeff Parnell is a CEO, advisor, and author who specializes in succession and exit planning for CEOs, business owners, boards, and investors. Through his work with JHP Advisors, Jeff draws on decades of C-suite experience across ecommerce, consumer goods, home furnishings, food manufacturing, and family-owned businesses. He has led companies through high-stakes transitions, tripled and quadrupled revenue in established businesses, and launched a $100M ecommerce division within a publicly traded firm. As an interim and fractional CEO, he helps organizations scale with clarity, efficiency, and confidence.Resources:Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn The Heart of Transition The Heart of Transition Booka...