Social Proof Podcast

In this powerful Social Proof episode, host David Shands sits down with Kim Lewis, founder and CEO of CurlMix, the Black-owned natural hair care brand that nearly went bankrupt after raising over $10 million and generating $40 million in lifetime sales.Kim opens up about how she reached a breaking point — with –$18,000 in her account, investors backing away, and a community of loyal customers who’d been with her since Shark Tank. Instead of hiding, she made the bold choice to go public, launching the #ProtectCurlMix campaign: a plea for 20,000 orders by December 31st to keep her factory open and her Chicago team employed.Throughout the conversation, Kim and David unpack what it means to lead transparently under pressure: • Why venture-backed startups can grow fast but still be unprofitable. • The tension between doing good for the community and surviving as a business. • The mental toll of leadership, failure, and staying authentic when everything’s on the line. • How CurlMix customers literally own 50% of the company, and why Kim believes community equity is the future of entrepreneurship.By the end, the story shifts from fear to hope — showing how honesty, community, and accountability can become a company’s greatest lifeline.Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9I...👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 http://www.podcastebook.comDavid on IG :   / dshands  Follow Curlmix   / curlmix  Follow Kim!   / kimlewisceo  Website https://curlmix.com/👥 Join The Social Proof Community:🚀 The Morning Meetup: http://themorningmeetup.com🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more real conversationsOur Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Millions of Americans are panicking right now as EBT and food stamp benefits are being delayed or cut during the government shutdown.If you’re wondering “how am I supposed to feed my family?” this episode is the answer you’ve been looking for.In this honest and powerful conversation, Donni Wiggins and David Shands share real stories, real numbers, and practical strategies for surviving when the system stops working.From food stamps to financial freedom, this episode is about taking control when everything feels out of your hands.In This Episode:- Donni shares how she rebuilt after hitting rock bottom- David explains the mindset shift that changes everything- Real strategies to make money fast when EBT runs out- How to turn your pain into purposeThis isn’t just motivation. It’s a manual for anyone struggling right now and ready to take control of their future. Whether your benefits were cut, delayed, or you’re just tired of depending on the system, this conversation will show you a way forward.Watch the full episode now and take the first step to rebuilding your life.👥 Join The Social Proof Community:🚀 The Morning Meetup: http://themorningmeetup.com📈 Actionable SEO Coaching: http://actionableseo.com🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more real conversations with David & Donni.Our Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From 2 Chainz to $500K in Donations — Charlie Jabaley “Delusional” Blueprint for MiraclesBefore the cameras even started rolling, Charlie Jabaley told David Shands something unforgettable:“Something huge is going to happen today.”That moment set the tone for a conversation about faith, delusion, and undeniable action.Charlie breaks down how he manifested a half-million-dollar Hasbro deal, turned a Christmas sweater with 2 Chainz into a $2.1 million viral brand, and why he believes the craziest people often make the biggest impact.This is the real story behind The Most Delusional Man in the Room — how confidence, creativity, and a little bit of “crazy” turned dreams into tangible wins.🎙️ Full episode of The Social Proof Podcast with David ShandsSubscribe for more stories that prove: It’s not luck. It’s action.👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾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 Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Entrepreneurs are obsessed with “working hard”… but what if effort isn’t the problem? What if the real issue is ineffective effort? 💭In this episode of the Social Proof Podcast, David Shands and Donni Wiggins break down the 10 habits that actually make you successful, not the ones social media keeps feeding you. From discipline and delayed gratification to metrics, mindset, and mastering discomfort, they unpack why so many people stay “busy” but never really move forward.This conversation will challenge your comfort zone, call out your excuses, and give you the real blueprint to get unstuck and start winning for real.💡 In this episode you’ll learn:- Why consistency alone won’t make you successful- How to track what actually moves the needle- The difference between growth and comfort- How to build friction between you and quittingThe habits every millionaire practices (that most don’t)👥 Join The Social Proof Community:🚀 The Morning Meetup: http://themorningmeetup.com📈 Actionable SEO Coaching: http://actionableseo.com🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more real conversations with David & Donni.Our Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The dating industry has been monetizing human connection for centuries — from arranged marriages to Tinder swipes. 💸In this episode of The Social Proof Podcast, David Shands breaks down the $3.5 billion dating app economy and reveals what entrepreneurs can learn from it: how every era found a way to profit from human emotion — and why the best businesses solve timeless problems.👀 You’ll learn:How matchmaking became a business before technology existedThe rise of Match.com, Tinder, and BumbleWhy dating apps profit more when you don’t find loveThe key lesson every entrepreneur can apply to their industry📱 It’s not about love — it’s about leverage.Watch now and rethink how you see “connection” in business.#DavidShands #SocialProofPodcast #BusinessOfLove #Tinder #Bumble #EntrepreneurshipOur Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It started with Ayesha Curry — but it’s not about her.It’s about anyone who’s ever supported someone else’s dream while feeling unseen.In this episode of The Social Proof Podcast, David Shands and Donni Wiggins dive deep into what happens when one person gets the spotlight — in marriage, business, or friendship — and the other plays the background.You’ll hear:💬 The real meaning behind Ayesha Curry’s comments — and why so many partners relate.💬 Donni’s story of a business partnership that fell apart over credit and spotlight.💬 How David handles team members who want to grow beyond his platform.💬 What it takes to stay aligned when success changes the dynamic.If you’ve ever felt overlooked in a relationship or partnership — this one will hit home.📺 Watch, comment, and share your take: Are you the star, or the support?#SocialProofPodcast #DavidShands #DonniWiggins #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPartnership #EgoAndSuccessOur Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most entrepreneurs are building with grind, not leverage.In this episode, we break down how to use business credit the right way to access funding, scale faster, and stop relying solely on your cash flow.You’ll learn:How to structure your business for credit approvalsSteps to qualify for $50K–$100K in funding without a personal guaranteeThe difference between consumer and business credit (and how to protect both)How to turn credit into leverage, not debtReal examples of entrepreneurs who used credit to grow their businessIf you’ve been stuck hustling for cash, this episode shows you how to build credit that funds your dream and your freedom.Our Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most fans think artists make millions from sold-out arenas—but the truth is, the music industry is built on cuts, fees, and middlemen. Chris Brown flipped the script with a bold $1,000 meet & greet play that turned photos into $4.5M in pure profit.In this video, we break down:🔥 Why most artists don’t make as much as you think from touring🔥 How Chris Brown built a direct-to-consumer cash machine🔥 The genius behind the $1,000 photo and viral culture🔥 What entrepreneurs can learn from his business model🔥 How scarcity + experience = a marketing masterclassThis isn’t just music—it’s entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a fan or a business owner, this playbook shows how to monetize your top 1% of customers and create products that turn into movements.👉 Drop your thoughts in the comments: Would YOU ever pay $1,000 for a photo with your favorite artist?#ChrisBrown #MusicBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Marketing #socialproofpodcast Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9I...👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 http://www.podcastebook.comDavid on IG :   / dshands  Our Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

David Shands and Donni Wiggins get raw about the highs and lows of their business partnership. From planning My First Million Live to debating whether dropping $200,000 into an event is smart, the two unpack:The challenges of mixing money with friendshipWhy partnerships succeed (or fail)Their real feelings about public criticismHow they navigate conflict without breaking trustThis episode is a masterclass in collaboration, entrepreneurship, and communication. Whether you’re thinking about going into business with a friend, or just curious about how top entrepreneurs handle money and ego, you’ll want to watch this all the way through.👉 Drop a comment: Would you risk six figures with YOUR business partner?Subscribe to the Social Proof Podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-proof-podcast/id1374373035Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5QM1w9IfjTza1wwHR06WaR👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾👇🏾JOIN THE COMMUNITY TODAY: https://www.themorningmeetup.comGrab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Can entrepreneurs really say what they want… or does every opinion come with a price? 🤔In Episode #541 of the Social Proof Podcast, David Shands and Donni Wiggins break down the fine line between freedom of speech and freedom from consequences. From a viral post about gratitude that sparked outrage to debates about cancel culture, they unpack how speaking your truth online can grow — or damage — your brand.💡 In this episode you’ll discover:Why even harmless posts can trigger backlashHow to handle online hate without losing your voiceThe REAL difference between freedom and accountabilityWhether entrepreneurs should “stick to business” or share their personal beliefs👥 Join The Social Proof Community:🚀 The Morning Meetup → http://themorningmeetup.com📈 Actionable SEO Coaching → http://actionableseo.com🔥 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more raw conversations with David & Donni.Our Sponsors:* Check out Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising 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 Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising 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 Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising 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 Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising 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 Incogni: https://incogni.com/socialproof* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/SOCIALPROOF* Check out NordProtect: https://nordprotect.com/socialproof* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code socialprooffree for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy