Growth Now Movement with Justin Schenck

In this episode, I sit down with Jay Black, a former high school teacher who took a massive leap of faith and built a successful career as a stand-up comedian, writer, and creative storyteller. Jay's journey is a powerful example of what can happen when you bet on yourself, say yes to opportunities, and stay willing to start over in pursuit of something that truly lights you up. We talk about Jay's early days teaching in the classroom while secretly chasing comedy at night, performing in small clubs around Philadelphia, and slowly building the confidence to take comedy seriously. Jay opens up about his first stand-up experiences, the uncomfortable rooms, the nights that didn't go well, and how those moments shaped his voice as a comedian. Jay shares the story behind his big break on Showtime's White Boys in the Hood and how that moment became a catalyst for leaving teaching and fully committing to life as a working comic. From there, the conversation expands into his transition into writing, including how he landed opportunities writing movies for Hallmark and Lifetime, and what it's really like behind the scenes of those productions. We also dive deep into the evolution of comedy in today's world. Jay offers a thoughtful perspective on how social media, viral clips, podcasting, and digital platforms have completely changed the game for comedians. We talk about the balance between tackling serious topics with humor, navigating cold rooms on the road, and continuously reinventing your material so you do not get stale. Beyond comedy, this episode is really about reinvention, courage, and the skill of saying yes before you feel ready. Jay shares what success looks like to him today, the daily habits that keep him grounded, and why fear is often the clearest sign you are moving in the right direction. Whether you are a creative, entrepreneur, or someone sitting on a dream you have been afraid to pursue, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about risk, growth, and what is possible when you fully commit to your craft. In This Episode, You Will Learn How Jay Black transitioned from high school teacher to full-time stand-up comedian What the early days of stand-up comedy really look like behind the scenes How performing in uncomfortable and cold rooms builds confidence and skill The story behind Jay's breakout moment on Showtime How comedians pivot into writing for Hallmark and Lifetime movies Why saying yes to opportunities can completely change your career path How social media and viral content have reshaped the comedy industry The importance of constantly reinventing your material and creative voice How to balance serious topics with humor and authenticity What success means after building a long-term creative career

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, I sit down with my friend Terry Weaver to unpack one of the most terrifying and transformative experiences of his life. Terry opens up about surviving severe sepsis, an illness that landed him in the ICU for 10 days and very nearly cost him his life. What started as pushing through an important event quickly turned into a medical emergency that forced Terry to confront his own mortality in a very real way. We walk through the moments leading up to his hospitalization, including the pressure of hosting an event while feeling unwell and the warning signs that were easy to dismiss at the time. Terry shares what it was like inside the hospital, how quickly sepsis can take hold, and the reality of being told just how serious his condition was. This conversation sheds light on how fragile life truly is and how quickly everything can change. Beyond the medical crisis, this episode dives deep into what happens after you survive something that big. Terry reflects on how his near-death experience reshaped his definition of success, ambition, and productivity. We talk about the emotional toll of recovery, managing anxiety and racing thoughts late at night, and learning how to close mental open loops that keep us stuck in stress and fear. One of the most powerful themes of this conversation is community. Terry shares how the support of friends, family, and people he didn't even realize were paying attention carried him through the darkest moments. We explore the importance of deep relationships, showing up for others, and why real legacy has far more to do with connection than accomplishment. We also talk about gratitude in a way that feels earned, not performative. Terry shares how finding humor in difficult situations, letting go of what no longer matters, and embracing a new sense of freedom changed how he lives his life today. This episode is a reminder that success without health, connection, and presence is empty, and that the real work is learning how to live fully while we still can. In this episode, you will learn: What sepsis is and why it can become life threatening so quickly The warning signs of serious illness that are easy to ignore until it's too late How a near-death experience can completely redefine success and ambition Why community and support matter more than accomplishments during crisis Practical ways to manage anxiety, nighttime worries, and mental open loops How to reframe negative thoughts during recovery and high stress seasons Why gratitude becomes deeper and more meaningful after loss or trauma How humor and perspective can help you navigate even the darkest moments What it really means to build a lasting legacy rooted in relationships How to live with more presence, intention, and appreciation for life

In this solo episode, I open up about one of the most challenging seasons of my life. Over the past year, I've experienced the loss of two close friends and watched others battle serious illness. These moments shook me in ways I didn't expect, and they forced me to confront what gratitude really means when life doesn't go according to plan. This conversation is not about toxic positivity or pretending everything is fine. It's about understanding gratitude as a deep, intentional practice that often comes after disruption, grief, and pain. When loss enters our lives, it strips away the noise and reminds us what actually matters. Time becomes more valuable. Relationships feel more fragile and more sacred. The present moment stops being something we rush through and starts becoming something we protect. I share how these experiences reshaped my perspective on success, ambition, and what it means to truly live. As we look ahead to 2026, I talk about why it's no longer enough to chase goals at the expense of our health, our relationships, or our peace. Instead, I believe we're being invited to align our ambitions with our wellbeing, to set better boundaries, and to live with clarity and intention every single day. This episode is a reminder that gratitude isn't a buzzword or a social media caption. It's a decision we make daily. A decision to be present. A decision to love harder. A decision to stop postponing our lives for some imaginary future moment. If you've experienced loss, transition, or a wake-up call recently, this episode is for you. My hope is that it encourages you to pause, reflect, and start living more fully right now. Episode Breakdown 00:00 Reflecting on Loss and Gratitude 00:54 How Loss Changes Our Perspective on Life 01:33 Finding Gratitude in the Midst of Grief 03:12 Gratitude as a Conscious Daily Choice 04:48 Setting Intentions and Boundaries for the Future 05:33 Living with Presence, Purpose, and Clarity 06:06 Final Thoughts and Invitation to Reflect

In this episode, I'm joined once again by my friend Sarah Centrella for her third appearance on the show. Every time Sarah comes back, the conversation goes deeper, and this one couldn't be more timely. We start by talking about something so many of us are feeling right now: how fast life seems to be moving and how easy it is to lose presence if we're not intentional. Over the last two years, Sarah has lived through an incredible mix of milestones and heartbreak. She celebrated her son graduating from college, turned 50, and also experienced the sudden loss of her brother. She shares honestly about how those moments forced her to slow down, reexamine her mindset, and make space for both grief and gratitude at the same time. Sarah also opens up about fulfilling a lifelong dream of backpacking through Europe. That experience became a powerful teacher in simplicity, awareness, and living in the moment. We talk about what travel can reveal about who we are when we step away from routines, expectations, and distractions. We dive into Sarah's new book, Think It, which offers practical tools for shifting your mindset even when life feels heavy. She breaks down concepts like mental tennis, offensive versus defensive thinking, and why mindset is a skill that must be practiced consistently, not just when things are going well. This conversation is not about forcing positivity, but about learning how to take control of your thoughts so they don't control you. We also discuss the role of gratitude during difficult seasons, how to stay present in a fast paced world, and why boredom or stagnation can actually be signals that growth is needed. Sarah shares how she teaches resilience to her children, how she works through negative triggers, and why daily affirmations and reflection matter when paired with intentional action. This episode is for anyone who feels like time is slipping by, life feels heavy, or their mindset needs a reset. Sarah brings both wisdom and practical tools that can help you stay grounded, grateful, and focused on designing a life that actually feels meaningful. In this episode, you will learn: How to stay present and grounded when life feels like it is moving too fast Why gratitude becomes deeper and more powerful after loss and adversity How Sarah used travel as a tool for clarity, healing, and self awareness What mental tennis is and how to use it to redirect negative thought patterns The difference between offensive and defensive thinking in daily life How to take control of your mindset without ignoring hard emotions Why boredom and stagnation are signals for growth, not failure How to build mental resilience through consistent, intentional practice Practical ways to teach resilience and gratitude to your children How to design a life that feels intentional instead of reactive

In this episode, I reconnect with my friend, fitness expert, and midlife wellness coach, Natalie Jill. The last time we had a conversation on the show was eight years ago, and a lot has changed since then. Natalie has not only evolved her brand, but she has completely transformed the way she approaches health, aging, performance, and mindset. This is a powerful and honest conversation about what it really means to live a healthy life at any age, especially through midlife. Natalie shares how she shifted from being known for general fitness and fat loss to becoming a leading voice in midlife wellness, hormone health, and aging with intention. We talk about what sparked that transition, how she redefined her mission, and why being deeply interested in your work is the key to any sustainable transformation. She opens up about navigating the overwhelming amount of information in the health space, and how midlife can be a confusing season where symptoms change, metabolism shifts, and the old tools don't always work anymore. We dive into biohacking, natural wellness, supplements, and the role of personalized nutrition. Natalie explains why you have to become your own health detective and why cookie-cutter fitness programs often fail women and men navigating midlife. We also get into the complexities of hormone replacement therapy, how to think through GLP-1 medications, and why sleep might be the most underrated performance enhancer of all. One of the things I've always admired about Natalie is her ability to evolve and reinvent herself without losing authenticity. We discuss the pressure of showing up online, the struggle to post consistently, controversial content, and how to stay aligned with your mission even when the internet has its own opinions. This is an empowering, honest, and deeply practical conversation for anyone looking to take ownership of their health, find passion in their work again, and embrace midlife with clarity and confidence. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Natalie Jill reinvented her brand and why midlife wellness became her mission Why midlife requires new strategies for nutrition, metabolism, and fitness How to cut through the noise in the health and wellness industry The role of biohacking and simple daily habits that actually make a difference Sleep strategies that improve energy, recovery, and overall health The truth about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and who they are really for What most people misunderstand about hormone replacement therapy How to stay authentic and consistent in content creation Why passion, curiosity, and reinvention are essential at every stage of life How to approach midlife with empowerment instead of fear

Grab the Supplements We Discussed In This Episode: www.qualialife.com/growthnow and use the code 'GROWTHNOW' for an additional 15% OFF your order In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Dan Pardi from Qualia for a deep, eye-opening conversation on longevity, healthspan, and what it truly means to stay youthful from the inside out. Dan has built an incredible reputation as a health communicator who can take complex scientific ideas and make them accessible and actionable for everyday people. And that is exactly what we dig into in this episode. We explore the difference between lifespan and healthspan and why maintaining our vitality, mobility, and mental sharpness matters more than simply adding years to the clock. Dan breaks down the reality of aging in today's world, the gaps in our current healthcare systems, and how modern stress, nutrition challenges, and lifestyle habits impact the way we age. From there, we dive into the rapidly growing field of longevity science. Dan walks us through the rise of research around senescent cells, often referred to as zombie cells, that contribute to inflammation, disease, and aging. We explore how removing these dysfunctional cells may be one of the most powerful ways to support long-term health and how Qualia's Senolytics are designed to assist that process. We also discuss the evolving landscape of stem cell therapy and how science is now supporting supplements and protocols that safely encourage the body's own regenerative processes. Dan shares how Qualia formulates their products, the level of research behind each ingredient, and the results they are seeing through human trials. This conversation is packed with practical, science-backed strategies you can start applying today to support your energy, cognition, and longevity. We also go deeper into Dan's personal journey, how he approaches productivity, and the daily practices that help him show up at his best. If you are looking to stay healthy, strong, and mentally sharp well into your later years, this episode will give you the tools and understanding to take your health seriously and make intentional decisions that support your future self. In This Episode, You Will Learn • What healthspan really means and why it matters more than lifespan • How modern lifestyles accelerate aging and what to do about it • The science behind senescent cells and how they impact inflammation and longevity • How senolytic products work and why they are gaining traction • The latest research on stem cell therapies and regenerative health • How Qualia approaches formulation and product testing • The daily habits that support cognitive performance and long-term wellness • How AI is influencing the future of health, medicine, and longevity • Why self-awareness, self-care, and expert guidance are essential for healthy aging • Dan's personal practices for productivity, growth, and wellbeing

In this episode, I sit down with Michael King Jr., an executive coach who works with Fortune 500 companies, consultants, creators, and entrepreneurs who want to operate at the highest level. Michael opens up about his journey from leading a thriving church to stepping into the world of executive coaching, and how that transition forced him to reexamine his identity, his purpose, and what it truly means to lead with impact. We talk about the art of storytelling and why it is one of the most underrated tools in leadership and communication today. Michael breaks down his signature prioritization framework called Now, Next, and Nope, which helps leaders gain clarity during chaotic seasons so they can focus on what actually moves the needle. He shares how this approach grew from his own real life experiences of burnout, reinvention, and learning what deserves his full attention. Michael also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the moment he stepped away from his long-time church role and how that difficult season helped him rediscover his passion for music, creativity, and coaching. We explore the key turning points in his growth, the importance of setting boundaries, the power of saying no, and why leaving people and situations better than you found them is one of the most important leadership principles you can commit to. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, powerful mindset shifts, and real strategies you can implement right away. In this episode you will learn: • How Michael transitioned from church leadership to executive coaching and rebuilt his identity • Why storytelling is one of the most essential tools in leadership, communication, and influence • How the Now, Next, and Nope framework works and how it helps leaders eliminate distraction • The personal breakthrough that led Michael back to music and creativity • Why saying no is critical for protecting energy, clarity, and performance • The difference between healthy growth and unhealthy pressure • How to create a life and career that feels aligned with who you are becoming • What it means to leave people, teams, and environments better than you found them • How top performers maintain balance while still aiming for excellence If you are looking for insight into high performance, clarity-driven leadership, and tools that help you operate with confidence and intention, this conversation delivers from start to finish. Tune in to hear how Michael King Jr. helps individuals and organizations unlock their full potential while staying grounded in purpose.

In this episode, I walk you through a powerful daily visualization practice that has significantly impacted my life. By visualizing both grand and small goals, and deeply immersing yourself in the emotions and sensations associated with these achievements, you can simplify the actions needed to reach them. Whether you're on stage before a large crowd or simply planning your day, coupling your visions with strong emotions and the presence of loved ones makes your goals feel attainable and real. Join me as I guide you through this transformative exercise, which I practice daily, and learn how it can help you achieve a life of fulfillment and success. Tune in, subscribe, and let's grow this movement together! 00:00 Introduction to Daily Habits 00:20 The Power of Visualization 00:54 Guided Visualization Exercise 05:18 Emotional Connection to Goals 07:04 Implementing Daily Practices 07:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

Get your tickets to Growth Now Summit LIVE! today: www.growthnowsummit.com  In this live episode recorded in New Orleans during the Skeleton KeyMastermind, I sit down with Roberto Candelaria for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation about one of the most underrated keys to success: willingness. Roberto's story is one of true transformation. After hitting rock bottom, he rebuilt his income, redefined his purpose, and created a business where he gets paid to be fully himself. His new book, "The Willingness Factor," breaks down how saying yes to discomfort, opportunity, and growth can completely change the trajectory of your life. In our conversation, we explore what it really means to be willing.....not just interested or motivated, but ready to take action even when fear or uncertainty shows up. Roberto shares how shifting his mindset around failure and discomfort allowed him to unlock new levels of confidence, clarity, and flow. We also dive into the science and psychology of flow state, that sweet spot where your skills and challenges align perfectly, allowing you to perform at your highest level. From dealing with imposter syndrome to finding peace in the process, Roberto's insights will challenge you to step fully into your own growth journey. This episode is filled with practical wisdom and real-life examples that will inspire you to take ownership of your path, trust your instincts, and find power in your willingness to show up. Plus, we preview Roberto's upcoming keynote at the Growth Now Summit Live, where he'll be sharing even more lessons from his journey. In This Episode, You'll Learn: What it means to live with willingness and take action even when it's uncomfortable How to overcome reluctance, fear, and limiting beliefs that hold you back The difference between growth and trauma, and how to identify both How to create flow in your life by aligning your skills and challenges Why revising your personal story is essential for long-term success Practical strategies for staying consistent, confident, and curious on your growth journey How Roberto built a business model around authenticity and self-expression Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction and Setup 03:02 – "The Willingness Factor" and Roberto's Journey 05:08 – Facing Discomfort and Choosing Growth 12:36 – Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Creating Your Path 20:37 – Understanding and Sustaining Flow 30:42 – Dealing with Imposter Syndrome 36:42 – Practical Tips for Staying in Flow 37:31 – Final Reflections and Growth Now Summit Preview

In this episode, I sit down with John Gafford, the owner of the largest luxury real estate brokerage in Las Vegas, leading over 550 agents and driving more than $2 billion in annual sales. But John's story isn't just about money or success. It's about ownership of your life. From his early days on NBC's The Apprentice with Donald Trump to becoming one of the most respected voices in luxury real estate, John shares how he built an empire rooted in radical honesty, unshakable self-awareness, and a growth mindset that never quits. We dive deep into: His early struggles and what it took to break into the real estate game The lessons he learned from being on The Apprentice How he turned obstacles into massive opportunities Why concerts are his version of therapy And the core principles behind his brand new book, "Escaping the Drift," — a guide to breaking out of autopilot and taking control of your life. If you've ever felt stuck, uninspired, or unsure of what's next, this episode is your roadmap back to purpose. John doesn't just talk success, he lives it, and his story will make you rethink what's possible. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How John Gafford turned rejection and setbacks into billion-dollar success The role radical honesty plays in building trust and influence What it really takes to lead 550+ agents in one of the most competitive markets in the world Why environment is everything and how changing yours can change your results How to "escape the drift" and start living your life on purpose The power of masterminds, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with the right people The daily habits and mindset shifts that separate top performers from the rest

In this powerful episode, I sit down with AJ Jones, a man whose story will completely change the way you think about success, purpose, and fulfillment. After surviving not one, but two widowmaker heart attacks, AJ was forced to confront the question most of us avoid — what does "more" really mean? AJ opens up about his life before these events, thriving in the world of financial services, climbing the ladder of success, chasing achievements, and collecting the external markers of "making it." But when life came to a screeching halt, everything changed. We talk about how those near-death experiences pushed him to redefine his priorities, shifting from titles, wealth, and possessions to finding more joy, more authenticity, and more purpose in his everyday life. AJ shares how he turned his pain into purpose through his company, 'More' Career Wellness, where he helps people align their careers and personal lives through coaching, community, and authentic connection. From his adoption story and search for belonging to the courage it took to walk away from a successful career, AJ's journey is a masterclass in resilience and intentional living. This episode is a reminder that fulfillment doesn't come from what we accumulate. It comes from who we become. If you've ever felt like you were chasing success but still feeling unfulfilled, this conversation will inspire you to slow down, look inward, and discover what "more" truly means in your life. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How two life-threatening heart attacks transformed AJ's perspective on life and purpose The difference between chasing success and living fulfilled How to find "more" in your life through joy, authenticity, and purpose The story behind More Career Wellness and its mission to empower professionals to live with intention How AJ turned pain and trauma into a platform for helping others The importance of community and self-awareness in living a meaningful life How to define success on your own terms — not the world's

In this episode of the Growth Now Movement, I sit down with Bill Cates, one of the leading voices in the world of referrals, client relationships, and financial success. Bill's journey is far from ordinary — from his early days as a rock and roll drummer to becoming a best-selling author, speaker, and expert in the financial services industry, his story is packed with lessons on reinvention, resilience, and redefining success. We dive into his brand-new book, The Hidden Heist, and unpack the mindset shifts that can help anyone unlock greater abundance — both financially and personally. Bill shares his perspective on how our beliefs, self-worth, and value perception directly shape our relationship with money. This isn't just about making more — it's about changing how you think about money, time, and value so you can create long-term fulfillment and balance. Throughout our conversation, Bill reveals the practical strategies that have helped countless professionals and entrepreneurs build thriving businesses through referrals and relationships. We talk about how to increase the real value you bring to others, the magic of compounding value (not just compounding interest), and how the smallest consistent actions can create massive long-term success. Bill also opens up about his personal life — from getting married later in life to becoming a father — and how those experiences transformed his understanding of love, legacy, and what success truly means. It's an honest, powerful conversation that bridges business and life, strategy and heart, ambition and contentment. Whether you're a financial advisor, entrepreneur, or someone simply looking to redefine your money mindset, this episode will give you tools and perspective to grow your wealth, deepen your relationships, and live more intentionally. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How to shift your money mindset to attract more abundance and flow Why your beliefs about value determine your income and impact The real power of referrals and client relationships for business growth How compounding value leads to exponential results in life and business Practical strategies to build trust and deliver transformation to clients The importance of rest, rejuvenation, and balance in sustainable success How fatherhood reshaped Bill's view of success, purpose, and love

In this powerful episode of the Growth Now Movement, I sit down with Garrett Lowe — a global leader, mentor, and faith-driven visionary who's helping people around the world discover their purpose and step fully into their calling. Garrett's work is centered around aligning talent, opportunity, and passion — what he calls the TOP Calling Framework — to help people live intentionally and lead with authenticity. We dive deep into the power of self-awareness, how to identify and live out your personal mission, and what it truly means to lead with vulnerability and faith. Garrett shares how creating his own mission statement completely transformed his life, and how clarity of vision can empower anyone to unlock their full potential. Throughout our conversation, Garrett opens up about the intersection of leadership and faith, exploring how divine guidance, free will, and biblical principles can shape how we show up in business, relationships, and life. He breaks down how to leverage your natural wiring, cultivate emotional intelligence, and use feedback as a tool for growth — while staying grounded in humility and purpose. If you've ever felt called to something greater or wondered how your unique gifts fit into the bigger picture, this conversation will help you gain the clarity and courage to live out your calling with confidence. In this episode, you will learn: How to identify and align your talents, opportunities, and passions to fulfill your highest purpose. The importance of crafting a personal mission statement to guide your decisions and daily actions. Why self-awareness and vulnerability are essential traits for powerful leadership. How to use faith and divine guidance as tools for clarity and direction. The role of feedback and curiosity in becoming a more effective and empathetic leader. How to build meaningful relationships that foster growth, trust, and community. The importance of defining success beyond achievements — focusing on legacy and purpose instead. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome and Introduction 02:43 – Garrett's Journey and Creating His Mission Statement 05:29 – What True Leadership Looks Like 07:31 – Discovering Vision and Purpose 09:26 – Navigating Pain and Finding Meaning in It 19:46 – Faith, Free Will, and Divine Guidance 26:13 – What is the TOP Calling Framework 29:52 – Embracing Your Personality and Natural Wiring 32:43 – Why Self-Awareness Is the Foundation of Leadership 38:35 – The Power of Receiving and Applying Feedback 40:40 – Building Deep and Meaningful Relationships 44:44 – Redefining Success and Living with Purpose 47:24 – Final Reflections and Growth Takeaways

In this powerful episode of the Growth Now Movement, I sit down with Michelle Rogers, a resilient entrepreneur, real estate investor, and property management company founder who has built an inspiring life through grit, perseverance, and heart. Michelle's story is not just about building a business—it's about overcoming some of life's toughest challenges and transforming pain into purpose. Michelle opens up about her multifaceted life—being a wife, a foster parent, and raising a large family—while simultaneously growing a thriving real estate business. She takes us through her journey from starting as a buy-and-hold investor to eventually launching her own property management company, showing what it takes to succeed in the competitive world of real estate. But Michelle's story goes far beyond entrepreneurship. She vulnerably shares her past, including surviving domestic abuse and the turning points that helped her rebuild her life. With the support of friends, a strong community, and her own determination, Michelle turned adversity into opportunity and discovered the power of resilience. We also dive into her upcoming book, The Resiliency Blueprint, where she outlines practical tools and strategies to help others navigate challenges, rebuild confidence, and design a life they love. Along the way, Michelle highlights the importance of self-care, personal growth, and surrounding yourself with the right people. If you've ever faced hardship or wondered how to rise above your circumstances to create true success and fulfillment, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Ryan Koral, a master storyteller and the founder of Tell Studios, to explore the power of storytelling in both life and business. Ryan shares his journey from working at a college to taking the leap into entrepreneurship and building a thriving video production company that helps brands tell meaningful stories and connect deeply with their audiences. We dive into the importance of storytelling for entrepreneurs and creators and how the right story can shape your brand, build trust, and attract the right clients. Ryan breaks down why capturing authentic testimonials and emotional moments matters more than polished perfection and how businesses can use video to stand out in a crowded digital landscape. But this isn't just a conversation about business. Ryan opens up about the personal side of his journey, including the impact of losing his father, the lessons that shaped him as a man, and how therapy and reflection have helped him navigate grief, leadership, and entrepreneurship. We talk about the importance of staying grounded, protecting your mental health, and finding fulfillment in both your work and personal life. If you've ever struggled with how to share your story, build a business that matters, or push forward through personal challenges while leading with authenticity, this episode is going to hit home.

In this powerful episode of the Growth Now Movement, I welcome back my friend Dov Baron for another deep and thought-provoking conversation. Dov is a world-renowned leadership speaker, author, and mentor, and today we dive into some of the most important questions around identity, personal growth, relationships, and emotional source code. Dov opens up about his life-altering fall that completely reshaped his identity and beliefs, and how that moment of crisis helped him uncover deeper truths about pain, purpose, and the courage required to transform. Together, we explore how early childhood experiences create our emotional source code — the patterns that shape who we become — and why understanding this code is essential for growth, healing, and creating a life of impact. We also discuss the importance of context in communication, how curiosity can bridge divides in both personal and professional relationships, and why uncovering pain is often the key to finding your purpose. Dov shares powerful wisdom on creating cultures of belonging, strengthening relationships through curiosity and courage, and redefining success through authenticity and love. This conversation is filled with actionable insights and profound lessons for anyone looking to live a more meaningful life, become a better leader, or create stronger connections at home and at work.

In this episode of the Growth Now Movement, I sit down with my friend Devin Sizemore, a seasoned entrepreneur and mentor who has dedicated his career to helping others accelerate their success. Devin takes us through his journey from being a hungry, young entrepreneur to becoming a trusted guide for others who are building businesses and striving to make an impact. We dive deep into the importance of stepping into the mentor role, why giving back matters, and how to shorten the learning curve for others so they can achieve results faster. Devin shares powerful strategies for always putting yourself in the right rooms, surrounding yourself with the right people, and creating opportunities that can transform your business and your life. One of the biggest themes in this conversation is the idea of creating "wow moments" in both business and sales. Devin breaks down how exceeding expectations and focusing on the customer experience can completely change the trajectory of your growth. We even touch on what entrepreneurs can learn from the magic of Disney when it comes to creating unforgettable experiences. Devin also introduces us to his ACEs community, a powerful platform designed to help entrepreneurs master networking, make meaningful connections, and learn from expert interviews. He explains how surrounding yourself with the right community can give you the edge you need to scale faster and lead with abundance. If you've ever wondered how to build authentic relationships, grow your network without being transactional, and create a lasting impact, this episode will give you practical strategies and real-world examples to apply immediately. Key Takeaways from this Episode: How to embrace the mentor role and why it matters The power of curiosity and always asking questions Why giving first opens the door to long-term opportunities The strategy for being in the right rooms with the right people How to create wow moments that elevate your business and brand The lessons we can learn from Disney about customer experience What the ACEs community is and how it's changing the networking game How to define success in your own terms while protecting your time This conversation with Devin is all about relationships, value, and building a life and business that truly matter. Whether you're just starting out or already scaling, his wisdom will help you think bigger, act smarter, and connect on a deeper level.

In this episode of the Growth Now Movement, I sit down with my friend Damon Burton — a powerhouse in the world of SEO and digital marketing — to talk about his incredible journey from starting small to building one of the most trusted SEO agencies in the world. We reminisce about our first meeting, and Damon shares stories of how he's worked with some of the biggest names out there, including Tony Robbins, Russell Brunson, and professional sports teams. What stands out most is his commitment to transparency and integrity — and how those values have opened doors to opportunities and referrals that money alone could never buy. We also dive deep into: The real secrets to SEO success in today's digital landscape How AI is transforming SEO and how Damon is staying ahead of the curve Building trust and meaningful relationships with clients The balance between entrepreneurship and parenting, and how Damon is helping his kids discover their passions The importance of high-ticket masterminds for networking and growth — and how to find the right communities for you Redefining what success really means and building a life focused on freedom, time, and meaningful experiences This conversation isn't just about SEO or entrepreneurship — it's about building a business and a life that truly aligns with your values. If you're an entrepreneur, marketer, or just someone chasing growth, you'll walk away from this episode with actionable strategies and deep insights to fuel your own journey.

In this powerful episode of the Growth Now Movement, I reconnect with my friend Albie Manzo — seven years since his last appearance on the show (we think) — and a lot has changed since then. Albie opens up about the biggest transformation in his life: becoming a father. We dive into how fatherhood has reshaped his perspective on life, business, and what truly matters. From his early days in the spotlight on reality TV to now building a thriving career in hospitality and events, Albie shares what it means to grow, pivot, and lead with purpose. We talk about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, what it takes to build meaningful experiences in today's digital-heavy world, and how to stay grounded through the chaos. Albie also shares his thoughts on how artificial intelligence is changing the hospitality industry — and why authentic human connection will always matter most. If you're someone who's navigating your own evolution — whether in business, parenthood, or simply trying to be more intentional in how you show up — this episode will hit home. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How fatherhood changed Albie's mindset and priorities Lessons from shifting from reality TV to real-world impact What it takes to create meaningful moments in hospitality The role of AI in the future of service-based businesses Why human connection still reigns supreme in a tech-driven world Albie's take on legacy, growth, and what's next Whether you're a parent, entrepreneur, or someone committed to living with more intention, this episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom to help you move forward with purpose.

In this powerful solo episode of the Growth Now Movement, I (Justin Schenck) sit down with YOU to talk about something deeply personal and often overlooked: legacy. Inspired by the recent passings of cultural icons like Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Ozzy Osbourne, and Hulk Hogan, I share my thoughts on what it truly means to leave a lasting impact. These legends lived boldly, made mistakes, and still left behind a legacy that touched millions. And that's what this conversation is all about—understanding that our imperfections don't define us; they shape us. Justin opens up about: Why your legacy starts with how you show up today The importance of being present with your loved ones How to turn personal setbacks into a springboard for growth Why you don't need to have it all figured out to start building your legacy A heads-up on his upcoming break in August (and why revisiting past episodes could be exactly what you need) This is a reminder to live life on purpose, embrace the lessons in the missteps, and keep showing up as your most authentic self. Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, parent, or just someone seeking more depth and meaning in your journey, this episode will hit home. What will your legacy be?