Social Proof Podcast

In this solo episode of the Social Proof Podcast, David Shands opens up about the biggest pivot of his entrepreneurial journey.He explains why he intentionally cut his income, shut down parts of his business, and even started “bleeding money” in order to build something scalable—a company with the potential to exit for $100 million.This is a transparent look at entrepreneurial maturity, sacrifice, and what it takes to think beyond short-term income toward long-term equity.Whether you’re scaling your first hustle or thinking about your legacy, this episode will challenge you to think bigger.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Stormi Banks shares how she turned a $50,000 loss into a grant-writing empire that’s secured millions for businesses. In this powerful interview, she breaks down how to win grants, scale debt-free, and unlock funding most entrepreneurs don’t even know exists.If you’re serious about business growth, this is the playbook.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ Stormi On IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamstormibanks/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

David Shands and Donni Wiggins sit down to challenge the way entrepreneurs think about startups, evolution, and solving problems. They share personal stories, practical frameworks, and global examples of innovation that prove real success comes from tackling big problems—not chasing trends.This episode covers:The truth about “founders” vs “entrepreneurs”Why your business evolution is a strength, not hypocrisyReal-world lessons from innovators solving life-or-death challengesHow to measure your market (TAM, SAM, SOM)The courage to think past risks and go bigTune in to hear why solving problems around money, health, and mindset will always be the foundation for building world-changing businesses.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ever met someone who claims they “run ads”… but really, they just shoot videos? 🎥💸In this Hot Seat Episode David Shands exposes the brutal truth about what separates a real digital marketer from a terrible one.👉 Are you actually running ads — or just wasting money?Watch as we break down:Why most videographers fail when they call themselves “marketers”The difference between creating content vs. creating conversionsThe REAL way to run ads without burning your client’s budgetHow to build systems that actually generate leads🔥 If you’ve ever wondered why your ads aren’t working, this clip is a wake-up call.👇 Drop a comment: Do you think most digital marketers are terrible… or just misunderstood?#HotSeat #DavidShands #DigitalMarketing #PodcastSummit2025 #AdsThatConvert👉🏾 Join the Morning Meetup - http://www.themorningmeetup.com⁣Click Here To Apply to the Hot Seat: https://forms.gle/Ba4tqWzmepKy3gMT7Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@hotseatsp?sub_confirmation=1On Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-seat-with-david-shands/id1751210337On Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5zXzYydyNYRf9QYHj?si=f8058395400c4ef0Shira Simmons on IG: https://www.instagram.com/butshefinetho/** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ NOTE: I am a Brand Ambassador and affiliate for certain businesses, products and services that I believe in. I may have referenced these and included links in this video, description or someplace else at this site. I hope you find the resources helpful.Copyright, Liability Waiver and Disclaimers. All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, except as permitted under the United States Copyright Act, and/or without the prior express written permission of David Shands, LLC, The Real Social Proof, LLC and/or David Shands.Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While all persons associated directly or indirectly with this site and video use their best efforts in preparing the content, there is no express or implied representations or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the content of the videos, including any content, links or resources shared, including those by third parties. Furthermore, all parties specifically disclaim any and all express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. No legal or investment advice is being given herein. You should consult with a professional where appropriate and before any action is taken on this video. No liability or damages shall take place because of this video and/or content. Furthermore, your use of this site and watching these videos confirms your agreement that Georgia or Delaware law applies to all disputes relating to this site and videos and, venue for all claims and disputes relating to this site and videos shall be in Atlanta, Ga.The information provided at this web site and all related platforms, services, newsletters, blogs, emails, messages, audios, videos, and all other traditional and digital communications, and social media platforms including, but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, blockchain related including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), other blockchain projects, synthetic media, and all others, IS NOT LEGAL, FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT OR BUSINESS ADVICE.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

To every struggling entrepreneur… this one’s for you.You’re calling it a business, but the truth is you might just need to get a job. That’s not failure. That’s survival. Are you chasing the dream or is it time to face reality? Comment below and let’s talk truth.Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE if you’ve ever turned hate into motivation.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-proof-podcast/id1374373035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9IfjTza1wwHR06WaR?si=7c3bcc1c3b954bb9 👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.com👉🏾 Actionable CEO: https://www.actionableceo.com/enrollGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ Donni on IG: https://www.instagram.com/donniwiggins_/#entrepreneurship #business #howto #podcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

At Podcast Summit 2025, Ace Metaphor sits down for a fireside chat with David Shands to reveal the raw truth about touring, collaborations, and building an ecosystem around your brand.From the hidden costs of live events to creating multiple revenue streams beyond ticket sales, Ace breaks down how he scaled Tonight’s Conversation into a powerful movement.🔥 What you’ll learn in this chat:The real costs of touring (and how to actually make money)Why collaborations can hurt if you’re not preparedHow to build an ecosystem that prints opportunities (events → apps → products)Why filming everything fuels your growthThe power of selling to your audience instead of waiting on sponsorsIf you want to scale your brand, grow your podcast, or launch live events — this fireside chat is a masterclass.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comDavid on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Ace on IG https://www.instagram.com/acemetaphor/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

To all the haters watching… this one’s for you. 😤I’ve been roasted online, criticized, and doubted; but here’s the truth: letting negativity control your life only hurts your growth. Instead, use it as fuel to level up, crush your goals, and show what you’re really made of.💥 Are you the hater, or are you the one grinding to success? Comment below — let’s see who’s really about growth.Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE if you’ve ever turned hate into motivation.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-proof-podcast/id1374373035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9IfjTza1wwHR06WaR?si=7c3bcc1c3b954bb9👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.com👉🏾 Actionable CEO: https://www.actionableceo.com/enrollGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾**http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Donni on IG: https://www.instagram.com/donniwiggins_/#entrepreneurship #business #howto #podcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today's conversation we speak on scaling, focus and thinking bigger.👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comDavid on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dshands/#entrepreneurship #business #howto #podcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

David Shands and Donni Wiggins talk about how they can better serve "My First Million Conference" attendees.Tune into the conversation to find out about how this event may happen in 2025.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-proof-podcast/id1374373035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9IfjTza1wwHR06WaR?si=7c3bcc1c3b954bb9👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.com👉🏾 Actionable CEO: https://www.actionableceo.com/enrollGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾**http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Donni on IG: https://www.instagram.com/donniwiggins_/#entrepreneurship #business #howto #podcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This conversation outlines the present reality and importance of forward thinking within black culture. Though the culture isn't new to forward thinking there are many variables that come into play as it relates to navigating relationships and intellectual property. It's time to be in the know now more than ever. There are people who are great examples as forward thinkers. Find out more within this conversation.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾**http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Earn Your Leisure On IG: https://www.instagram.com/earnyourleisure/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today's vlog, Jeezy stops by to show us a side of him that not many may know. Donni and I also go through some behind the scenes info while planning an upcoming event.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comDavid on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this conversation with Weston Hill of Ceo The Tax Biz shows interested individuals how to start their own tax business. He started out generating a quarter million under mentorship for only a portion of the profits. Then he moved on to his own tax business and generated the same at a full profit. Business has gone up from there. Not only does his business provide tax services but they also teach others how to do the same.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ Weston Hill on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thetaxbizz_/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today's Podcast Explained, we looked at Ryan Pineda's studio!Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registrationUse code "Ryan" for 20% off tickets to Podcast Summit👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comDavid on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This conversation with Jeezy reveals his true character. Even though his journey involved some illegal activity he used that journey to learn principles that polished him. Jeezy used music to help him to rise out of that life. He did the work on himself. He released the traumas. Now he's refined and doing great business. We are now witnessing his transformation in many ways. Check out the entire conversation as he speaks on his personal journey. Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-proof-podcast/id1374373035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9IfjTza1wwHR06WaR?si=7c3bcc1c3b954bb9 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.com👉🏾 Actionable CEO: https://www.actionableceo.com/enrollGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ Donni on IG: https://www.instagram.com/donniwiggins_/Jeezy On IG: https://www.instagram.com/jeezy/#entrepreneurship #business #howto #podcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Airbnb Story. This is a story that illustrates how renting an air mattresses along with breakfast has grown into a multi-million empire. This is the ultimate example of insanity meets creativity. After hitting a brick wall in the business it was realized that they needed testimonials and reviews to help build trust in prospect clients. Roadblock sprouted as more city regulations formulated. Then Covid came this actually decreased business by 80%. Airbnb has made through all these obstacles and more and has become one of the largest travel companies serving millions of clients. For many, Airbnb is preferred over hotel stays.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-proof-podcast/id1374373035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9IfjTza1wwHR06WaR?si=7c3bcc1c3b954bb9 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.com👉🏾 Actionable CEO: https://www.actionableceo.com/enrollGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ Donni on IG: https://www.instagram.com/donniwiggins_/#entrepreneurship #business #howto #podcastOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We usually use the past to determine our present. Also, we often use our present to determine our future. Well, Dr. Benjamin Hardy speaks about how to use the future to determine your present in an effort to scale exponentially. Tap in to this conversation as we discuss this perspective. Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj...👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾**http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Dr. Benjamin Hardy On IG: https://www.instagram.com/drbenjaminhardy/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

I want to share with you a way that you can create a show using Chat GPT. I prompted Chat to write script for me so that I can direct from it. One key to using AI is feeding the appropriate prompt so that it gives me what I'm satisfied with. Always look over and proofread what it feeds back to you. Add or takeaway from it what you desire.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GT6Vgj... 👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/ Kev On IG: https://www.instagram.com/kevonstage/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOFAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy