"Mick Unplugged" is a transformative podcast that challenges listeners to move beyond the conventional 'Why' and embrace the empowering realm of 'Because.' Hosted by Mick Hunt, the voice of Modern Leadership, this podcast is designed for leaders, doers, and anyone aspiring to create meaningful impact in both their personal and professional lives. Each episode delves into the principles of Modern Leadership, focusing on discovering your 'Because'—your core driving force—and how it can turn dreams into reality and aspirations into actionable steps. With practical advice, real-life stories, and forward-thinking insights, you’ll learn to make your 'Because' a daily focus, fueling your journey toward success and fulfillment. Whether you’re looking to deepen your motivation, set meaningful goals, or apply modern leadership theories to overcome challenges, "Mick Unplugged" provides the tools, strategies, and insights to guide your path. Subscribe now and start transforming your life with purpose and modern leadership principles.
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How to Build a Life That Doesn't Quit: Shawn French Explains
NEW
Shawn French is a speaker, coach, and podcast host whose life and brand are built on resilience, discipline, and unyielding determination. Drawing from overcoming personal adversity and healing childhood wounds, he has transformed his journey into a mission to inspire and push others to stop negotiating with their greatness. Through his work, including the acclaimed "Determined Society" podcast and community, Shawn French empowers leaders and individuals to harness their pain, elevate their standards, and pursue their purpose with intention, discipline, and grit.
Takeaways:
Standards Over Goals: Success is rooted in maintaining personal standards, not just chasing goals. Standards become your minimum expectation and shape who you are during the journey.
Discipline is Freedom: The daily commitment to mundane, consistent habits grants true freedom and peace of mind, allowing individuals to move forward with zero regrets.
Embrace the Mundane: Lasting impact and achievement come from relentlessly executing the unglamorous, everyday tasks—even when motivation is low.
Sound Bytes:
"If it feeds the mission, then eat it, then go for it. But if it moves you further away from your goal, retreat. Don't do it."
"You have to be able to drop the walls and take that ego... I have to be vulnerable in this moment and admit that I didn't perform because of me."
"Discipline is freedom. Because when you act on that, there's nothing anyone can say... You have earned that moment no matter what."
Connect & Discover Shawn:
Instagram: @theshawnfrench
Podcast: The Determined Society
Website: thedeterminedsociety.com
X: @theshawnmfrench
Facebook: @thewronghouse
YouTube: @thedeterminedsociety
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:35:23•January 8, 2026
Shatter Boundaries: Harnessing the Brain for Growth with John Assaraf
NEW
John Assaraf is a renowned entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, neuroscience expert, and founder of NeuroGym. With a career spanning over four decades, John has built multiple multi-million-dollar companies and dedicated his life to helping millions break through self-imposed limits. He is recognized for translating complex neuroscience into practical strategies for personal and professional growth, focusing on the power of identity, mindset, and the mechanics of the brain. John’s mission is to empower others to engineer success from the inside out and unlock their full potential.
Takeaways:
Identity Drives Change: John emphasizes that true, lasting change begins with transforming your identity—how you see yourself—since you will never outperform your own self-image.
The Brain is Wired for Safety, Not Success: Our brains are naturally designed to keep us safe and avoid pain, not to achieve success. Recognizing and consciously working with this wiring is critical to overcoming self-sabotage and achieving new levels.
Upgrade Your Inner Software: Just like technology, your beliefs, habits, and identity are ‘software’ that can be intentionally upgraded through practice, self-awareness, and emotional regulation—leading to greater achievement in all areas of life.
Sound Bytes:
“We will never, ever, ever outperform our hidden self-image of ourselves.”
“Our brain is wired to keep us safe, not successful.”
“You can practice a new identity the same way a basketball player practices free throws—until it becomes automatic.”
Connect & Discover John:
Website: johnassaraf.com
Facebook: @johnassarafpage
Instagram: @johnassaraf
X: @johnassaraf
LinkedIn: @johnassaraf
YouTube: @JohnAssaraf
Website: myneurogym.com
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:39:27•January 5, 2026
Why Humans Matter in the Age of AI with Dara Ladjevardian
NEW
Dara Ladjevardian is the innovative founder behind Delphi, the human-centric AI platform that's transforming how mentorship and knowledge are shared in the digital age. Growing up as the child of Iranian immigrants in Houston, Dara was deeply influenced by the resilience and work ethic of his family, particularly his grandfather—a prominent business leader who rebuilt his life from scratch in the US. After creating and selling his first AI startup in eight months, Dara was inspired by the desire to preserve and access his grandfather’s wisdom, ultimately leading him to build Delphi. Today, Dara is on a mission to empower individuals and businesses to scale their influence and legacy through personalized, ethical AI that puts people first.
Takeaways
Human-first AI Matters: Delphi is purpose-built to empower people, not replace them. Dara’s journey is rooted in making mentorship and wisdom scalable, while allowing users to own their data and curate their digital minds.
Legacy and Connection: Dara’s motivation began with wanting to preserve the lived experience of his grandfather. Delphi enables business leaders and entrepreneurs to capture, share, and pass down knowledge for generations.
Embracing Vulnerability: Dara encourages leaders to put themselves out there and leverage digital tools to grow their influence with authenticity—because real connection comes from sharing who you are and what you value.
Sound Bytes
“We’re not automating humans; we’re putting AI and power in the hands of humans.”
“As AI continues to improve, that authenticity, that realness of a human is going to be that much more attractive.”
“You should not be afraid to put yourself out there... it’s okay to start putting yourself out there.”
Connect & Discover Dara:
Website: delphi.ai/dara
LinkedIn: @dara-ladjevardian
Instagram: @daraladje
X: @daraladje
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:24:34•January 3, 2026
Breaking Walls: Raheel Siddiqui's Journey to Unstoppable
NEW
Raheel Siddiqui is a dynamic speaker, coach, and podcast host who embodies resilience and the power of personal transformation. Having lost over 200 pounds on his journey from being overweight and bullied to becoming a beacon of inspiration, Raheel uses his story to empower others to break through barriers—whether those walls are physical, mental, or emotional. Fueled by the memory and lessons of his late father and driven by a passion to help others rise from rock bottom, Raheel now shares his insights via his own Wall Breaker 200 podcast, TEDx stages, and coaching sessions. He brings unmatched energy to every room and is dedicated to helping people discover strength they never knew they had.
Takeaways:
Admitting You Have a Problem Is the First Step: Transformation begins with accountability and the willingness to recognize and confront your struggles head-on.
The Journey Is Just as Important as the Results: Progress requires focusing on the process—commit to the work and trust that the results will follow, in any area of life.
Ask for Help and Build Your Support System: Whether it’s joining a team or reaching out for guidance, surrounding yourself with people who care can be the catalyst for real change.
Sound Bytes:
“Any wall in your life is truly meant to be broken, man. You can get off of the mat. You can be heavyweight champion of the world.”
“The old Raheel didn’t have the Raheel right now, and the old Raheel needed the guy that I am now.”
“There’s nothing more heartbreaking than to see your parents crying over you, feeling that pain over you. So I said, okay, sure, I promise. So we drove off, we drove home, and the journey begun.”
Connect & Discover Raheel:
Instagram: @raheelwallbreaker200
Facebook: @raheel.twopointzero
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:41:16•January 2, 2026
Fans First: How Jesse Cole Turned Baseball Into An Experience
Jesse Cole, famously known as the man in the yellow tux, is a master of reinvention, joy, and building unforgettable fan experiences. As the owner of the Savannah Bananas, Jesse has transformed a struggling baseball club into a global phenomenon by shattering norms and prioritizing fun above all else. Driven by a deep belief in bringing people together and creating moments of joy, he’s become a leading business thinker, author, and inspiring mentor dedicated to showing leaders how to turn customers into raving fans. With innovation at his core, Jesse's contagious energy and commitment to doing the remarkable make him a blueprint for entrepreneurs and changemakers everywhere.
Takeaways:
Normal gets normal results — Jesse preaches that following industry standards only yields average outcomes; it's bold, memorable actions that set you apart and drive remarkable success.
Micro-reinvention matters — You don’t need to overhaul everything at once; continuous, small innovations across touchpoints can reshape experiences and build superfans.
Lead with gratitude and values — Companies that embody gratitude and consistently put their “fans” (internally and externally) first, even at a cost, build stronger, more loyal communities.
Sound Bytes:
“No one gets excited about normal. They get excited about memorable.”
“The only way you can be great is if you’re willing to get through the messy to get to the great.”
“If you do what everyone else is going to do, you’re going to get the same results as everyone else.”
Connect & Discover with Jesse:
Website: Find Your Yellow Tux
Website: thesavannahbananas
LinkedIn: YellowTuxJesse
Instagram: @YellowTuxJesse
X: @YellowTuxJesse
YouTube: @yellowtuxjesse
Book: Find Your Yellow Tux
Fans First
Banana Ball
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:37:25•January 1, 2026
Who’s In Your Circle? Steve Smith on Mentorship
Steve Smith is a legendary former NFL wide receiver, celebrated for his tenacity, intelligence, and relentless drive both on and off the field. From humble beginnings as a “poor black kid who was unsubsidized,” Steve carved out an extraordinary football career with a no-“plan B” mindset, earning admiration as a future Hall of Famer and an inspirational community leader. Post-retirement, Steve has channeled that same passion into business, media, and philanthropy—especially his work in mental health with Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUCK). Known for his authenticity, leadership, and fiercely competitive spirit, Steve continues to impact lives by leading with purpose, candor, and heart.
Takeaways:
Relentless Focus on Plan A: Steve Smith’s story is rooted in his “no plan B” determination—putting everything into football to change the trajectory for his family, and later carrying that same intensity and commitment into business and philanthropy.
Mentorship and Learning: Steve highlights how mentorship allowed him to take the “elevator,” learning from the successes and failures of others to accelerate growth and avoid common setbacks.
Emotional Intelligence and Growth: Steve openly discusses improving his emotional intelligence, especially in learning to pause before reacting, reflect on his feelings, and balance his directness with empathy—crucial lessons for both life and leadership.
Sound Bytes:
“If I couldn’t catch a football, I wouldn’t have got my foot in the door. But understanding my intelligence and my willingness to learn keeps me in the door.” –Steve Smith
“Just because they are receiving assistance doesn’t mean you lessen their respect of who they are as a human being.” –Steve Smith
“How I can critique but not criticize... and give guys the benefit of the doubt. However, if the film tells enough of the story, I can’t give you what you didn’t earn.” –Steve Smith
Connect & Discover Steve:
Instagram: @stevesmithsr89
YouTube: @89show
YouTube: @ironedoutw89
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:34:58•December 31, 2025
The Mindset That Makes You Unstoppable with Ed McCaffrey
Ed McCaffrey is a three-time Super Bowl champion and Stanford Cardinal legend who’s just as celebrated for his work off the field as he is for his NFL career. Known for his humility and quiet strength during his playing days, Ed has since become renowned for his philanthropy, founding and running football camps for athletes with Down syndrome and children from military families. He now leads McCaffrey Brands, delivering premium food products and healthy snacks nationwide, all while remaining committed to using his platform to make a positive impact. Whether inspiring the next generation or creating “the best mustard in the world,” Ed exemplifies the all-American values of teamwork, leadership, and giving back.
Takeaways:
Ed McCaffrey values teamwork and using his platform to uplift others, whether through his philanthropic work, business endeavors, or family legacy.
Building McCaffrey Brands was rooted in the desire to bring joy and flavor to everyday life, drawing on lessons from athletics and partnership, and driven by a commitment to quality and purpose.
True fulfillment comes from investing in people, building strong teams, and always focusing on providing real value—on the field, in business, and in the community.
Sound Bytes:
“You don’t do it to have people hear about it, but it certainly feels fulfilling to me and to Lisa and to our boys who feel that it’s important to give back.” — Ed McCaffrey
“Everything we do is to help bring new, creative, premium products to market that make people’s food taste better, that provides them value.” — Ed McCaffrey
“Hopefully, people remember me as a good husband, a good father, and someone who cared about other people.” — Ed McCaffrey
Connect & Discover Ed:
Instagram: @edmccaffrey87
X: @87ed
Website: edmccaffrey.com
Website: mccaffreybrands.com
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:32:54•December 30, 2025
What Happens When You Stop Playing Small with Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr.
Dr. Martin Lemelle Jr. is a third-generation “Gramlinitian” and a visionary leader at Grambling State University, where he is reshaping tradition to empower tomorrow’s leaders. With a background that spans financial strategy, transformational leadership, and impactful service, Dr. Lemelle’s mission is to create generational change through education—especially for underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students. From serving as student government president to thriving in corporate America and returning to uplift his alma mater, he is deeply committed to harnessing the legacy and innovative spirit of HBCUs to ensure students graduate not only ready for the workforce, but prepared to make a global impact.
Takeaways:
Generational Impact is Key: Dr. Lemelle’s “because” centers on creating real, generational change for sustainable communities, focusing on the economic empowerment of students and families through higher education.
Leadership Differentiates Success: Involvement in student government and extracurricular leadership roles are essential, not just technical skills—leadership, collaboration, and communication are what set students apart and open doors.
Pivoting and Integrative Learning are Essential: Today’s success is about merging technology, data, and traditional education while having the agility to pivot and anticipate needs, both for students at Grambling and for leaders everywhere.
Sound Bytes:
“We are commissioned to create generational impact and change for sustainable communities.”
“Gone are the days of this single disciplinary focus. We have to be both—and: humans with technology.”
“Having that tank full of good faith and will and love and trust… those elements will help you navigate any challenge.”
Connect & Discover Dr Martin:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinlemelle/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinlemelle/
X: https://x.com/martinlemelle?lang=en
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:31:29•December 29, 2025
Power and Purpose: Congressman Jim Clyburn Talks Legacy
Congressman Jim Clyburn is a legendary statesman whose influence spans from advising presidents to serving as a beacon of change and unity in American politics. Representing South Carolina, he is not only a champion of justice and progress but has also shaped the course of history with his powerful endorsements and unyielding voice. With deep roots in the civil rights movement and a life devoted to public service, Congressman Clyburn’s impact resonates across generations—especially inspiring young leaders and change-makers to envision what’s possible through mentorship, storytelling, and unwavering purpose.
Takeaways:
Legacy and Representation: Congressman Clyburn’s new book, The First Eight, uncovers the overlooked history of the eight African Americans who served in Congress from South Carolina before him, proving the power of representation and the importance of knowing one’s history.
Mentorship by Example: Though Clyburn didn’t personally know his forerunners, their stories and those of his own father provided mentorship from afar—showing that guidance and inspiration often transcend direct relationships.
Power of Storytelling: Clyburn emphasizes the importance of learning outside traditional education, absorbing wisdom from lived experiences, and communicating with passion and inclusivity—skills he encourages the next generation to develop for real impact.
Sound Bytes:
“No, before I was first, there were eight.”
“Robert Smalls is the most consequential South Carolinian, bar none.”
“There’s a certain amount of education that you gotta get outside of the books.”
Connect & Discover Jim:
Instagram: @clyburnsc06
Facebook: @ClyburnforCongress
X: @RepJamesClyburn
YouTube: @RepJamesClyburn
Website: Congressman James E. Clyburn
Book: The First Eight: A Personal History of the Pioneering Black Congressmen Who Shaped a Nation
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:24:04•December 27, 2025
Disconnect to Reconnect: Lessons from Marlow Campbell
Marlow Campbell is a dynamic leader, coach, and entrepreneur whose journey began on the soccer fields of Raleigh, North Carolina. A former collegiate soccer star at NC State and the first North Carolina homegrown athlete to receive a full scholarship from legendary coach George Tarantini, Marlow's life is a testament to building relationships, embracing diversity, and leading by example. With a background spanning athletics, business, and mentorship, Marlow brings a deep passion for fostering growth in others—whether as a CEO, coach, or father. His philosophy centers on reflection, supporting others in discovering their own purpose, and spreading positivity wherever he goes.
Takeaways:
The Power of Disconnecting: Taking time to step back and reflect is essential for personal growth, leadership, and maintaining strong relationships—whether it’s a quiet nap, quality family moments, or a simple hour of solitude.
Sports as a Life Teacher: Participation in sports helps cultivate teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills. The lessons learned on the field—the wins, losses, and challenges—translate directly to business and life success.
The Role of Support and Mentorship: True leadership is measured not just by personal achievements, but by the ability to uplift others, share wisdom, and connect people across communities and backgrounds.
Sound Bytes:
"Disconnecting is a way for you to reflect and truly analyze what's going on in order to make improvement in your world, in your life." – Marlow Campbell
"You’re building on your experiences—taking time away is a way to just mentally take notes and say, okay, this is where I've been, this is where I'm going." – Marlow Campbell
"Sport teaches you how to work with others. If you don't know how to work with others, you may struggle." – MarlowCampbell
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:49:15•December 25, 2025
Transform Anxiety into Creative Fuel: Insights from Josh Pais
Josh Pais is an acclaimed Hollywood actor recognized for his dynamic performances alongside icons like Scorsese, Denzel, and Jennifer Aniston. Beyond his storied film career, Josh is the creator of the Committed Impulse method—a revolutionary approach empowering leaders and creatives to overcome fear, access their full presence, and perform at their peak. Drawing on insights from the worlds of acting and neuroscience, Josh helps people break free from mental roadblocks and ignite their aliveness, whether in the boardroom or on stage. He’s also the author of Lose Your Mind: The Path to Creative Invincibility, distilling his life’s work into practical exercises and guidance for anyone seeking greater authenticity and creative freedom.
Takeaways:
Transforming Fear into Fuel: Josh believes that nervousness, anxiety, and fear are natural human sensations and advocates for embracing them rather than suppressing them. By feeling these emotions fully, they can become creative or professional fuel rather than obstacles.
Presence is Key: Through techniques like his “I’m back” exercise, Josh empowers people to break free from self-critical mental chatter and anchor themselves in the present moment, opening up greater creativity and impact in their work and life.
Vulnerability as Power: Rather than viewing vulnerability or emotional intensity as a weakness, Josh asserts that welcoming every sensation—especially during high-stakes moments—creates genuine connection and power.
Sound Bytes:
“When actors step into the unknown and create in that moment, that’s what engages an audience.”
“Feel the charge, it’s not good or bad—it’s just energy. Use it as fuel for whatever you’re doing.”
“You have to be a little crazy to go into this and, you know, the thing with rejection is feel it like a bee sting, then clear the slate and be open for what’s next.”
Connect & Discover Josh:
Instagram: @joshpais
Facebook: @CommittedImpulse
X: @JoshPais
Website: Committed Impulse
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:34:28•December 22, 2025
Cracking Helmets, Commanding Screens: Isaac Keys Unplugged
Isaac Keys is a dynamic force whose journey spans from cracking helmets in the NFL to lighting up TV screens as Diamond Sampson on “Power Book IV: Force.” A two-time All-American and Morehouse Hall of Famer, Isaac embodies relentless ambition and personal reinvention. Beyond his achievements as an athlete and actor, he now steps into the role of author with his new book, "The Grind Don’t Stop, It Just Changes," sharing powerful lessons in resilience, personal growth, and the importance of evolving your circle as your ambitions rise. A passionate advocate for mental health and men’s emotional vulnerability, Isaac’s story is as inspiring as it is relatable.
Takeaways:
Embrace Change and Growth: Isaac’s journey is all about pivoting with purpose, showing that real progress happens when you’re not afraid to completely change directions, not just adjust your route.
The Power of Your Circle: As you evolve, so should your circle—the people around you can either lift you higher or hold you back, making it crucial to surround yourself with those who genuinely support your vision.
Vulnerability is Strength: Both Isaac and Mick Hunt stress that celebrating wins and being open about struggles—especially as Black men—isn’t weakness but a vital part of well-being and success.
Sound Bites:
“The grind don’t stop—it just changes. You never truly stop working, you just shift what you’re hustling for.” — Isaac Keys
“Sometimes adjusting isn’t enough. There are moments in life when you need to just change, because life is adjusting with you.” — Mick Hunt
“When you try to let go of your past, some people want to hold on because your past benefits them—those are the people you can’t be around.” — Isaac Keys
Connect & Discover Isaac:
Instagram: @isaackeys
LinkedIn: @isaac-keys
X: @isaackeys
Facebook: @isaackeys
Website: IsaacKeys.com
Book: The Grind Don't Stop
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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00:35:08•December 18, 2025
Leveraging Your Zone of Genius with Amina AlTai
Amina Altai is an acclaimed coach, healer, best-selling author, and purpose whisperer who has transformed burnout into brilliance and career chaos into conscious clarity. With clients ranging from executives at Google and Deloitte to leaders across industries, she’s redefining what success looks like for mission-driven individuals. Amina’s work centers on the intersection of body, mind, and career, and her latest book, The Ambition Trap, dives deep into healing our relationship with ambition and fostering purposeful success. Passionate about justice, equity, and helping others live into the fullness of their experience, she’s a powerful advocate for breaking systemic barriers and nurturing authentic careers.
Takeaways:
Purposeful vs. Painful Ambition: Ambition isn’t inherently bad—Amina distinguishes between painful ambition, driven by our core wounds, and purposeful ambition, which is rooted in our truth and wholeness.
Interconnection of Body, Mind, and Career: True success isn’t just career achievements—it’s about aligning your work, values, and well-being, allowing space for cycles of growth and restoration.
Zone of Genius is for Everyone: Every person has a zone of genius. When organizations and individuals tap into these innate strengths rather than focusing on relentless urgency, both burnout decreases and performance soars.
Sound Bites:
"Ambition is just a desire for growth or a wish for more life—and that’s inherent in every living thing on the planet, from our human babies to our plant babies."
“There are times in our lives where we need new roots. So it feels like a burning down, but it’s actually a rebuilding.”
“Success should include your body being well…that should be each of our birthrights.”
Connect & Discover Amina:
Website: aminaaltai.com
Instagram: @aminaaltai
LinkedIn: @aminaaltai
Podcast: Amina Change Your Life
TikTok: @theaminaaltai
Book: The Ambition Trap: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
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00:32:51•December 15, 2025
Redefining Island Hospitality: Natajia Miller’s Story of Resilience
Natajia Miller is a visionary entrepreneur from the Bahamas who has transformed her family’s dream into reality with Embrace Resort on Staniel Cay. Starting from humble beginnings—where her mother paved the way through sheer determination and hard work—Natajia traveled the globe, living in places like Dubai and rural China, before returning home to take their boutique island resort to new heights. Her leadership during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic showcased her commitment to her team and guests, and she’s become known for curating authentic, personalized hospitality experiences that blend Bahamian culture, warmth, and true human connection.
Takeaways:
Resilience is the heart of success: Natajia’s journey is powered by family legacy, perseverance, and the ability to adapt through hard times like the pandemic.
Personalized hospitality stands out: Embrace Resort differentiates itself by offering caring, individualized experiences and fostering genuine relationships—not just luxury amenities.
Leadership is about community: Natajia’s approach is grounded in loyalty to her team and the community spirit, proving that small businesses can have a big impact.
Sound Bytes:
“Service excellence is not just a fake smile. It’s about how that person feels in your presence. Service comes from caring.”
“What I used to think was a negative thing—us being so small and not posh—is actually what makes us amazing. Because we have time for your stories.”
“When people come to Embrace, they always say, I feel like I visited an aunt… You feel like somebody cares about you at this place.”
Connect & Discover Natajia:
Instagram: @mindfrotravel
LinkedIn: @natajiamillerluxurytravel
Website: stanielcayvacations.com
Website: embraceresort.com
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
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00:36:14•December 13, 2025
Emotional Intelligence: Jim Burns Reveals the Hidden Advantage in Leadership
Jim Burns is a dynamic leader and community builder based in the Upstate of South Carolina. With roots just outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Jim has become synonymous with development, community outreach, and economic growth in his adopted hometown. As the Chief Operating Officer for Hartness Development and founder of C LLC, specializing in strategy and execution excellence, Jim combines an entrepreneurial spirit with a deep commitment to purposeful leadership. He is known for championing personal growth, emotional intelligence, and the power of building strong, resilient teams—values that he credits to his “three Fs”: family, friends, and faith. Jim is also a former Greenville County Council member and an active participant in a wide range of local initiatives, leaving a lasting positive impact on his community.
Takeaways
Growth is Essential: Both personally and professionally, continual growth is key. Jim emphasizes that in business and life, “if you’re not growing, you’re dying”—intentional, measurable growth should be every leader’s focus.
Self-Awareness Drives Leadership: Knowing your strengths and weaknesses enables you to build teams that complement your skill set, rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Surrounding yourself with strong, capable people is critical for organizational success.
Emotional Intelligence in Action: Leading with emotional intelligence—especially self-regulation and empathy—allows leaders to handle challenges with composure and make better decisions, setting an example for their teams.
Sound Bytes
“You want your companies to grow, you want personal growth, you want the organizations that you’re a part of to grow—whether philanthropic or community or whatever.”
“If you’re not growing, you’re dying... Plan for it. Be intentional about your growth.”
“As a leader, what can I control? I can control what I think, what I say, and what I do. I can’t control anybody else.”
Connect & Discover Jim:
LinkedIn: @jim-burns
Instagram: @hartnessliving
🔥 Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer? 🔥
Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.
👉 Grab your copy now and level up your life → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million
FOLLOW MICK ON:
Spotify: MickUnplugged
Instagram: @mickunplugged
Facebook: @mickunplugged
YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast
LinkedIn: @mickhunt
Website: MickHuntOfficial.com
Apple: MickUnplugged
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