Free At Last With James Catledge

What does it really mean to be a top 0.03% performer—and why would someone like that quit a secure job? In this episode of Free at Last with Evan Schlang, we sit down with a top 10 out of 35,000 performer who walked away from corporate security to build a life around commission-based income, entrepreneurship, and family freedom. We break down: Why commission pay can be safer than a salary How one deal can outperform a full year of income The real difference between an employee mindset vs an entrepreneur mindset Why most people quit right before success How top performers think about risk, money, and time What it takes to succeed in sales, financial services, and business Why freedom with your family matters more than job security This conversation is for anyone who's ever: Felt trapped in a 9–5 Been told commission is "too risky" Wanted time freedom without sacrificing income Considered entrepreneurship but hesitated Believed they were capable of more If you're interested in sales, financial services, entrepreneurship, mindset, personal development, or building income without a ceiling, this episode will challenge how you think about work and risk. 👇 Comment below: Would you choose security or upside?

In this episode of Free at Last, a board-certified neurosurgeon pulls back the curtain on what most people never hear about peptides, regenerative medicine, and modern longevity science. After performing thousands of brain and spine surgeries, Dr. Jeff Gross explains why he became disillusioned with the traditional "sick care" system — and what led him to explore peptides, stem cells, and biologics that elite athletes and high performers have been using quietly for years. recellebrate.com This conversation breaks down: What peptides actually are and how they work in the body Why peptides aren't "synthetic drugs" the way most people think The real reason you don't hear about peptides in most doctor's offices How inflammation, aging, and recovery are connected Why professional athletes go overseas for regenerative treatments The difference between treating symptoms and restoring function This is not hype, not medical advice, and not a sales pitch — it's an honest, experience-driven conversation about where modern medicine is headed, and why optimizing health matters just as much as building wealth. If you care about performance, longevity, recovery, and taking ownership of your health, this episode will change how you think.

In this episode, Brad Lea breaks down the real reason why most people never become financially free. From self-image and belief systems to sales, commission, and personal responsibility, this conversation goes far deeper than surface-level money advice.   Brad explains why: You can make a lot of money and still be broke Most people can't out-earn their self-image Mindset comes before skillset — and skillset comes before habits Reading books doesn't change your life unless you apply what you learn Victim mentality quietly destroys long-term success This isn't motivation. It's the hard truth most people don't want to hear — but need to.   If you've ever felt stuck, plateaued, or frustrated watching others win while you're working just as hard, this episode will challenge how you think about money, success, and responsibility.

In this episode, Andrew Taylor breaks down the craziest, most unbelievable moments from his years in the field — from knocking doors in dangerous neighborhoods, to being at a client's house during an active robbery, to recruits writing policies while drive-by shootings were happening outside.   But behind the chaos is a deeper message: this industry can change your life if you're willing to outwork everyone else. Andrew reveals how he went from a grocery store job to building and selling his own agency, earning massive commissions, and helping thousands of agents transform their careers.   This is part motivation, part chaos, part masterclass — and 100% real. If you're in sales, financial services, or building a team… you'll want to watch this all the way through.   ⏳ What You'll Learn The wildest insurance sales stories ever told How Andrew survived dangerous door-to-door moments Why most agents fail (and how to avoid it) The "golden question" that unlocked a $25K commission How to build an agency while still writing business The posture and mindset required to win in financial services Why the industry is easier than ever — but still unforgiving 🔥 Key Topics Covered Respecting your time as a salesperson The truth about IULs, annuities, and term Building a team the right way How Real Financial is changing the game The mindset that separates winners from everyone else 📌 If you got value from this episode: 👍 Smash the like button 💬 Comment your favorite lesson 📲 Share this with someone in the sales industry 🔔 Subscribe for more: Real stories. Real sales. Real success. Weekly episodes that dive into entrepreneurship, sales, money, and leadership.

Most people think they're "on track" financially — but very few actually are. In this episode, we break down how financial scoring + AI is changing the way advisors work with clients, make recommendations, and scale organizations. Instead of opinions, sales pressure, or guesswork, this system uses real math, real data, and real-time AI to show clients exactly where they stand on retirement readiness, tax efficiency, and long-term financial health. We dive into: Why most financial plans fail in the distribution phase How AI acts like a copilot in client appointments Why focusing only on risk misses the real enemies of money How financial scoring creates trust without persuasion The biggest mistake people make with 401(k)s and taxes Why scalability in financial services requires systems, not personalities Whether you're a financial professional, entrepreneur, or someone who wants clarity on their financial future, this conversation will completely change how you think about money, AI, and retirement planning.

In this episode of Free at Last, we sit down with David Leavitt, a world-renowned concierge estate jeweler who deals directly with billionaires, private collectors, and global estates. From rare pink diamonds to multi-million-dollar tiaras worn by Marie Antoinette, David reveals what REALLY happens inside the high-end jewelry market. 💎 Connect With David Leavitt +1 (858) 342-7020 We break down the recent $200M Louvre heist, the explosion of lab-grown diamonds, why natural diamonds are losing value, and what makes certain gemstones worth millions per carat. David also explains how he travels the world sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces, how Hermès Birkins became a status powerhouse, and why jewelry holds emotional value far beyond its price tag. If you've ever wondered how the ultra-wealthy buy jewelry—or what goes on behind the scenes of the luxury market—this episode pulls back the curtain. ⏱️ Topics Covered Inside the $200M Louvre jewelry heist The rarest diamonds in the world Why pink diamonds are so valuable Lab-grown diamonds vs natural diamonds How lab diamonds are disrupting the industry How billionaires actually buy jewelry The truth about Hermès Birkin bags David's origin story and rise as a concierge jeweler The emotional psychology behind gifting jewelry ----------- David is a private concierge jeweler who works directly with clients worldwide. His contact information is in the description. 🔥 Want More Episodes Like This? Subscribe for weekly conversations about financial independence, wealth strategies, and real stories from people at the top of their industries.

In this episode of Free At Last, host James Catledge sits down with entrepreneur and CEO Nathan Marco to uncover the real mindset of the top 1%. They break down why most people fail to reach success, the toxic comfort of the middle class, and how to build the discipline and pain tolerance required to become financially independent. Nathan became a millionaire across multiple industries — and he reveals the truth: Success demands action, not intelligence. Excellence first, money second. No negotiation with feelings. If you've ever wondered what separates successful entrepreneurs from everyone else… this conversation is your blueprint. 🔥 Connect with Nathan Marco Website: NathanMarco.com Instagram: @NathanMarco_ Email: NathanM@ThePerfectCloser.com 🧠 Key Topics Covered Pain + pressure → success Discipline Over motivation every time Why most people stay stuck in the 99% How to pick mentors who actually help you win The single most important habit for financial independence

Gold just hit $4,200 an ounce — the highest price in history.    In this episode of Free at Last, host James Catledge sits down with gold expert Sami Chalfouh, founder of Great American Bullion, to explain why it's happening and what it means for your money. They break down everything — from the fall of the gold standard, to China dumping U.S. Treasury bills, to the BRICS nations creating their own payment system. Sammy reveals how currency wars, inflation, and endless money printing are driving investors back to gold — and why physical gold could be the most powerful hedge against a collapsing dollar. If you've ever wondered: 💰 Why gold keeps breaking records 🪙 Whether now is the time to buy 📉 How inflation destroys your savings  🏦 And what happens when governments can print unlimited money — this conversation is a must-watch.   🔗 Mentioned in the episode: 👉 GreatAmericanBullion.com 📞 (424) 279-4608 Timestamps: 00:00 – Gold hits record highs 01:00 – Why gold doubled in 2024 03:00 – The end of the dollar & rise of BRICS 06:00 – Roosevelt's gold recall & the 1933 rug-pull 08:00 – Nixon ends the gold standard 10:00 – How fiat money devalues your savings 11:30 – Gold as protection, not speculation 16:00 – The $10,000 in 1943 story 19:00 – How to buy and sell gold safely 24:00 – Gold's future and how to prepare

In this episode of Free at Last, host James Cartlidge sits down with Mohamed Ali, author of The Art of Real Estate Investing, to uncover how Dubai became one of the safest and most profitable real estate markets in the world. From zero property tax and government-backed escrow protection to blockchain-based registration and crypto-friendly transactions, Mohamed breaks down why global investors are flocking to the UAE for long-term financial freedom. He also shares his personal story of going from construction worker to multi-millionaire investor — and the "win-win-win" system that's helped his clients build generational wealth through smart property deals. Mohamed's IG: https://www.instagram.com/mohamedtaherali/?hl=en Find Mohamed's Book Here: https://www.mta-realestate.com/news/art-of-reale Timestamps: 0:00 Intro – From Dubai to the studio 1:00 The Art of Real Estate Investing 2:00 Why Dubai's system protects investors 4:00 Escrow, blockchain & buyer safety 8:00 Mohamed's "win-win-win" model 12:00 Off-plan investing explained 15:00 Dubai vs. Switzerland – new global hub 17:00 How to invest internationally

What if a $1,000 move could save you over $150,000 in taxes? In this episode of Free at Last, host James Catledge sits down with Brent Carlson from Corporate Capital to reveal how the wealthy protect their money and how you can legally do the same.   Brent breaks down the real power of an LLC, how to separate your business from your personal assets, and why states like Nevada and Wyoming give entrepreneurs the ultimate protection and privacy. Whether you're a small business owner, 1099 earner, or side-hustler, this episode shows you how to build wealth the smart way.

In this powerful episode, James Catledge sits down with serial entrepreneur and investor Tom Powell — a man who went from growing up poor in Nevada to becoming financially independent, losing $400 million, and rebuilding his success through resilience, curiosity, and execution.   Tom shares exactly what it takes to achieve true financial freedom, from identifying big problems to solve, to building scalable businesses, to developing the mindset that separates wealthy entrepreneurs from everyone else. He also reveals his insights from working with Harvard, teaching founders how to raise capital, and launching his exclusive Founders Office and Capital Edge Summit programs.   In This Episode You'll Learn: How Tom Powell made and lost $400M — and what it taught him The mindset and habits of financially free entrepreneurs The 4-step framework for building wealth (curiosity → problem → market → moat) Why "boring businesses" can make you rich The Founder's Isolation Paradox and how to overcome it Lessons from Harvard, Stanford, and decades of entrepreneurship

How to Overcome Childhood Trauma & Achieve Financial Independence | Reframing Method Explained Learn the powerful reframing technique for healing past trauma without years of therapy.  In this episode, I break down the exact mental exercise I used to transform childhood abandonment into fuel for success. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Why 99% never achieve financial freedom 2:30 - The connection between trauma and success 5:45 - The File Folder Method explained 8:15 - The Milkshake Study (Dr. Huberman) 11:20 - My father's abandonment story 14:30 - How to reframe trauma step-by-step 18:00 - Taking control of your label maker KEY TOPICS COVERED: ✓ Childhood trauma recovery  ✓ Mental reframing techniques ✓ Overcoming imposter syndrome ✓ Building financial independence mindset ✓ Self-esteem and self-worth ✓ Victim mentality vs victor mentality DISCLAIMER: Not professional medical advice. Seek licensed therapists for serious trauma. Subscribe for weekly episodes on achieving financial and emotional freedom.

🔥 REAL FINANCIAL'S AI REVOLUTION: How 27 Questions Could Transform Your Financial Future Learn More: https://realfinancial.com/home  In this eye-opening interview, Scott (President of Real Financial) reveals the game-changing AI technology that's disrupting the financial services industry. Discover how their mandatory 27-question assessment is helping agents earn 3-4x the industry average while ensuring every client gets proper financial planning.  🎯 KEY HIGHLIGHTS: The AI scoring software that's "smarter than any financial advisor" Why traditional financial planning is broken (and how AI fixes it) How a Domino's delivery driver can become a top financial planner  The "smash and grab" problem plaguing major financial companies Real-time retirement planning with unprecedented accuracy Brad Lea's influence and 6 million followers backing this revolution    ⚡ MAJOR TOPICS COVERED: AI Financial Scoring Software (23%) Real Financial Company Overview (16%) Company Culture & Ethics (14%) Agent Success & Compensation (13%) Lightspeed Virtual Training System (11%) Industry Criticism & Reform (6%) 💡 WHO SHOULD WATCH: Anyone considering a career in financial services People frustrated with traditional financial advisors Entrepreneurs interested in AI disruption Anyone wanting to understand the future of financial planning   🎙️ ABOUT THE SHOW: "Free at Last" teaches people how to become financially free through expert interviews and proven strategies. Host James brings decades of financial services experience to uncover what really works. 📊 THE NUMBERS: 35 years combined experience 27 AI-driven assessment questions 3-4x industry average earnings  ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making financial decisions.

What if I told you the boss who called me on vacation, controlled who I could hang out with, and interrupted my family dinners... is now the reason I'm financially free? In this raw, unfiltered episode of Free at Last, I'm dropping the mask and having a real conversation about what it ACTUALLY takes to achieve financial independence. No guests, no fluff – just me and you talking about the harsh reality most people refuse to face.  🔥 What You'll Discover: Why 99% of people will NEVER become financially independent (and it's not what you think) The "window shopping" mentality that keeps you broke forever How to fire your current boss and hire the one that actually pays Why you need to stop listening to people who aren't where you want to be The brutal truth about commission-based income vs. salary slavery My childhood story of "gate crashing" rich neighborhoods (and what it taught me) 💰  KEY TAKEAWAYS:  Success doesn't care about your age, race, or background – only your commitment "You eat what you kill" – get into commission-based work NOW Stop working IN a business, start working ON building one Time and compound effort are non-negotiable Most people dream but never dare to look at the price tag This isn't motivational fluff. This is the real conversation about wealth that nobody wants to have because it requires you to look in the mirror and ask: "Am I willing to pay the price?" 🎧 SUBSCRIBE for more unfiltered conversations with financially independent entrepreneurs who've paid the price and lived to tell about it.

If you want a real, repeatable path to financial independence—not hype—this episode is a masterclass. Andrew Taylor (FFL co-builder, now a partner at Integrity and key driver behind Real Financial's growth) breaks down how he went from grocery-store bagger to financially free in his 20s using life insurance sales, lead generation, disciplined money buckets, and team building. We cover lead funnels (Meta/Facebook/IG), handling objections, annuities, overrides vs. rental properties, daily activity goals, mentorship, and the mindset shifts that separate the 1% from everyone else.   Follow Andrew: https://www.instagram.com/andrewtaylo... Follow James: https://www.instagram.com/freeatlastw...   Why watch? Learn exactly how to scale commissions into passive income, recruit and train at volume, and operate with the habits, loyalty, and focus that compound over a career. ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 Intro & guest—Andrew Taylor 01:24 What "financial independence" really means 01:44 Andrew's backstory (single-mom household, early money drive) 03:16 Rich Dad Poor Dad mindset shift 05:17 Early sales mistakes (why clients canceled) 06:27 10,000 in-home appointments & tight 30-minute pitch 07:21 Converting sales cash into monthly cash flow 08:28 Overrides vs. rental properties (the 100 agents insight) 09:52 Frugal years, cars, and living below means 11:08 Escaping the "nice car, broke" trap 12:32 Secrets of the Millionaire Mind—thermostat & blueprint 13:36 The money buckets formula (fun, long-term, "risky," taxes, living, reinvest) 15:01 Lead-based sales and relentless follow-up 16:18 Meta ads & what makes a prospect "open" 18:20 Negotiating discounted leads at scale 19:03 The "exclusive lead" myth & handling duplicates 20:16 Pre-empting objections with an official frame 20:41 Activity goals you can control (door-knocks & persistence) 21:17 "Fourth-quarter magic" story (mansion close) 23:04 Late-night call → annuity opportunity ("golden question") 27:19 Competing with top performers & raising effort 28:26 What stops people from FI (habits, gossip, comparison, ego) 33:20 Coaching, perspective, and gratitude 36:21 Loyalty & long-term thinking over ego plays 38:44 Insurance industry durability (claims always pay when valid) 39:30 Covid → virtual sales 20× effect; national leads; "time travel" calling 41:11 Land-grab moment & Real Financial's model 42:07 Close

In our inaugural episode, host James sits down with Brad Lea from Dropping Bombs to break down a simple but ruthless formula: mindset → skill set → habits. We get practical about what "financially free" really means (recurring income exceeding your lifestyle without trading time), why money follows attention, why commission-based roles create leverage, and how to take full responsibility for your choices to change your life.   Brad Lea's Links: https://www.instagram.com/therealbradlea/?hl=en  https://www.youtube.com/@UCDAbrXOj2yIrzj8QE4jC-Og   What you'll learn: • The real definition of financial freedom (and why lifestyle creep keeps people broke) • Why mindset is the master key—and how to rewire beliefs with new information and action • The power of sales/commission to create scalable income • The trifecta: mindset, skill set, and daily habits that compound • How to trade victim mentality for ownership and momentum • Books that shift thinking: The Four Agreements, As a Man Thinketh, Think and Grow Rich • Building vehicles that turn influence into opportunity (teams, training, culture