Million Dollar Relationships

Kevin Thompson
  • 5.0 (1)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Have you ever been introduced to a person that completely changed the course of your business or your life… so much so, that much of what you have today wouldn't be possible, if not for this person? Each week on The Million Dollar Relationships Podcast, your host Kevin Thompson interviews successful entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs as they share their personal stories and experience around this very question. Your invitation is to have a seat at the head of the table as they honor and introduce you to the most valuable people in their lives and remind us that relationship capital is the most valuable asset we possess. Each week you'll be inspired and motivated to intentionally create more meaningful, rewarding and profitable relationships in your life so that together we can make a far bigger impact in this world.

  1. 2D AGO

    Amplifying Human Flourishing with Graeme Watt

    What if the work you do every day could help 15-25 families consider adoption with just a $1,500 Christmas card budget? In this episode, Graeme Watt, co-founder and leader of Anthem Creative, shares his remarkable journey from outdoor adventure guide to nonprofit founder to running a thriving creative agency that serves organizations pursuing human flourishing. Through pivotal relationships with two mentors - Tom Ko, his "fundraising Yoda," and Michael Gibney, his business mentor of 15 years - Graeme discovered how to build businesses that amplify good in the world. From Googling "how to start a nonprofit" at age 26 to celebrating 10 years running a full-service agency with his brother, Graeme reveals how the right relationships at the right time, combined with unwavering optimism and clear vision, can transform not just your business trajectory but your entire life's work. His agency operates with a simple filter: "Will this amplify human flourishing?" This principle guides everything from client selection to team building, creating a business that treats every project as an opportunity to make the world better. Graeme reflects on how mentorship shaped his leadership, why passion is the single greatest competitive advantage in hiring, and how one adoption agency campaign proved that creative work can genuinely change lives - one family at a time.   [00:04:00] What Graeme Does: Amplifying Good Through Creative Services Co-founder of Anthem Creative with his brother Mark Mission: Partner with organizations pursuing human flourishing to amplify their impact online Portfolio company structure with main operating company as creative agency Core filter for all decisions: "Will this amplify human flourishing?" Specializes in branding, custom web experiences, and film/documentary work [00:06:00] The Journey: From Outdoor Guide to Entrepreneur Studied ecotourism and outdoor leadership (not business) Worked as river guide and rock climbing guide early in career Married and moved to Edmonton, Alberta where outdoor industry didn't exist Started working with youth and students, creating experiments for young people At 26, Googled "how to start a nonprofit organization" and launched one from his living room [00:10:00] The Haiti Moment: Brothers Unite Graeme worked at World Vision Canada (large global NGO) Submitted innovation grant proposals that kept getting funded Hired his brother's agency for these innovation projects Graeme quit his nonprofit job and joined his brother full-time Just celebrated 10 years in business together [00:11:25] Most Impactful Result: The Adoption Agency Campaign Early in agency life, partnered with local adoption agency Handled complete rebrand: new name, website, video content, and collateral Agency wanted to run year-end digital ad campaign but had no budget Got creative: repurposed $1,500 Christmas card budget for digital ads Launched December 20th using brand hero video they'd already created [00:17:00] How They Met: Through a Designer's Introduction Met when Graeme was 26, starting nonprofit from scratch Introduced by Ian, a freelance designer working with Graeme Graeme was building a board and asked if anyone knew potential board members Tom had 30 years in nonprofit space, running successful consulting firm Graeme thought: "He's not gonna want anything to do with a guy like me" [00:18:07] Tom's Investment: Chairing the Board Tom was captivated by Graeme's passion and vision Immediately offered: "I would love to chair your board if you would have me" Became board chair when organization "wasn't even really an organization" Taught Graeme everything about fundraising, board leadership, governance, and agency agreements [00:24:00] How They Met: Through an Intern's Introduction Michael's daughter was Graeme's intern at World Vision Canada Graeme was running a coffee company on the side (social enterprise sourcing from Africa) Michael also involved in coffee and sourcing products from developing world [00:25:20] The Mentorship Terms: 30 Minutes of $900/Hour Time Graeme was looking for business-side mentor (had Tom for nonprofit side) Asked Michael directly: "Would you consider mentoring me?" Michael's conditions: "My time is really valuable—I charge $900/hour" Michael's offer: "I'll give you 30 minutes whenever you need it, but:" 15 years later, relationship still going strong [00:27:37] Michael's Lasting Impact: Believing Before Graeme Did Every major business decision has had Michael's voice in it In 15 years, has never steered Graeme wrong Saw things in Graeme that he didn't believe were there Believed in Graeme when he didn't believe in himself [00:29:00] Real-Time Impact: The 3D Printing Product Launch Operating partner designed proprietary product for global market 3D printed product with penny manufacturing costs and high margins Required expertise in international patent law and licensing agreements Called Michael 40 minutes before podcast recording [00:33:40] Philosophy: The Power of Pursuing Human Flourishing Commitment to human flourishing attracts incredible relationships and opportunities Right people show up at right times with needed expertise Until recently, never posted job openings—always went to network   KEY QUOTES "The ability to clearly communicate a future vision with conviction and passion—there are a few skills that are more valuable than that." - Graeme Watt "The glass is always half full with me. It's always optimistic. We're always gonna figure it out." - Graeme Watt "If you can constantly see the forest, then you don't get bogged down by the trees." - Graeme Watt "Whoever tells the best story wins." - Graeme Watt "If you give 51% and you give more than you expect in return, then that's a winning formula." - Graeme Watt (referencing Gary Vaynerchuk) CONNECT WITH GRAEME WATT 🌐 Website: https://www.anthemcreative.ca  💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wattgraeme    Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    38 min

  2. 5D AGO

    How One Instagram DM Changed Everything with Braxton Kilgo

    What if sending one Instagram DM could completely change the trajectory of your life and business? In this episode, Braxton Kilgo, Founder & CEO of I Believe In You (IBIY), shares his incredible journey from a small town in Texas with just 200 people to building a global movement that's touched lives in over 20 countries and 100+ cities. After a career-ending football injury forced him to reimagine his future, Braxton discovered his true calling when a middle school principal's phone call led him to create stickers that said "I believe in you" - sparking a ripple effect of kindness he couldn't ignore. From frantically rewriting a speech 24 hours before delivery to receiving stories about lives saved, Braxton reveals how one bold DM to a stranger in Scottsdale introduced him to his business partners Joey and Dylan, who brought him into a world of entrepreneurs that transformed everything. Through the power of "big belief leading to big action," Braxton built IBIY - a tech-enabled bracelet movement where small acts of kindness create measurable waves of impact, with partnerships including Tony Robbins' Mastermind.com and Recovery Unplugged that happened before they even officially launched their B2B offering. Braxton shares why "show up to serve, not sell" will 10x everything you're doing, how being kind and asking "how can I help you?" creates an army of people ready to connect you with anything you need, and why the person giving the bracelet might experience something even more powerful than the person receiving it.   [00:05:19] What Braxton Does: Building a Kindness Movement with Technology Founded I Believe In You (IBIY) - a movement centered on one core belief: small acts of kindness can make big waves of impact Flagship product: Bracelets with "I believe in you" message that you wear with the intention to give away Each bracelet contains an NFC chip synced with mobile app - tap your phone to see personalized video/photo messages and track the bracelet's journey Track every city, country, and person impacted - watch your ripple effect spread around the world even after you give it away Mission: Create an army of "wave makers" to make impact as individuals and businesses [00:07:40] The Origin Story: From Football Dreams to Purpose Grew up in May, Texas - a town of 200 people where his whole family lived on one farm Thought his only path out was playing in the NFL Got to college on a football scholarship but struggled with injuries, limping off the field every day after practice Strength coach Coach Ramey pulled him aside: "I think you were made for something bigger than this, and I think you also want to be able to run around in the yard with your kids one day" Eventually dropped out, went back to the farm and oil field, returned to school and started a clothing company called Vision about defining your version of success [00:10:41] The Pivotal Moment: A Principal's Phone Call That Changed Everything Got invited to speak at a middle school (about 10 schools in, wasn't very good yet) Principal called 24 hours before: "I wanted to remind you what some of the kids are going through at home and at school so you really know who you're talking to" Spent 10 minutes breaking Braxton's heart with stories Braxton told his brother: "I wrote the wrong speech. I'm not qualified" [00:12:37] The Unexpected Impact: When Kindness Goes Viral Principal called days later: Kids were being nicer to each other in hallways and to staff Parents called thanking them for the speaker because of conversations kids started at home Local businesses called asking "what are these ugly ass stickers these kids are sticking on everything?" At 19 years old, shipped bracelets to 16 different countries, appeared on TV channels and podcasts [00:15:01] The Long Journey: From 19 to 30 and Back Again Realized he didn't know any entrepreneurs - "the only person I knew that was maybe a business person was the guy who had more cows next door" Put IBIY on pause to learn how to be a business person and build the technology Built another company (Hours Global - business consulting) that he used to fund IBIY Worked with 1,000+ clients in sales, branding, and high-level partnerships over the decade Now ready to launch IBIY to the world at age 30 (turns 30 next week) [00:18:29] The Million Dollar Question: A Life-Changing Introduction Who Changed Everything: Joey and Dylan (his business partners) [00:19:25] Pivotal People: Joey and Dylan - The Instagram DM That Changed Everything Was planning to move to Fort Lauderdale with his best friend/brother Two friends convinced them to move to Scottsdale instead - "at least come for a little while" On the drive to Scottsdale in a U-Haul, looked for people doing cool stuff on Instagram Never had true friends who were also entrepreneurs before meeting Joey and Dylan They introduced him to Devon who runs Arizona Entrepreneurs, which is where he met Nico [00:21:18] The Scottsdale Effect: From 10 Months to 5 Years Original plan: Stay in Scottsdale for 10-12 months then leave Reality: Stayed for 5 years and was the last one there after all his friends moved Joey and Dylan are now his business partners in IBIY They're the reason he brought IBIY back when he did [00:23:20] The Arizona Entrepreneurs Connection: Opening Doors Everywhere Joey and Dylan introduced him to the Arizona Entrepreneurs community Became the official marketing partner of the entire Arizona Entrepreneur group His first investor for IBIY came from one of those stages Got to sit on stages with "some of the top entrepreneurs in the world" even though they'd done "astronomically more" than him" [00:31:42] The Three Pillars of IBIY Direct-to-Consumer: Bracelets sold online to anyone in the world; each collection gives back to a charity Culture Shift Tour: Speaking at hundreds of schools around the country every year (led by partner Jared), recreating the original sticker moment with real bracelets B2B Partnerships: Custom co-branded bracelets for nonprofits, churches, retreats, conferences, and businesses with custom messaging and packaging [00:32:40] The Partnership Program: Impact You Can Track Organizations get completely co-branded bracelets and packaging Can leave a custom message on the front of all bracelets (video from founder/leader appears first time it's tapped) Working with major companies BEFORE officially launching: Recovery Unplugged, Mastermind.com (Tony Robbins and Dean Graziosi), Dick's Sporting Goods meeting scheduled, ClickFunnels reached out All from texting friends and reaching out through personal relationships - no marketing yet [00:38:59] Braxton's Advice: Big Belief, Big Action, Big Results "You have to believe you are before you are and you have to believe like absurdly" "Big belief leads to big action, which is the only way to get those big results" "Little belief leads to little action, which then basically just has you re-solidify in your mind that you couldn't do it" "If you want the magic, you gotta take some risks. There's no risk, there's no magic" [00:41:00] The Giver's Gift "It's really awesome for the people that receive the bracelet, but I think it might still be more powerful to the person that gives it away"   KEY QUOTES "Small acts of kindness can make big waves of impact." - Braxton Kilgo "You have to believe you are before you are and you have to believe like absurdly. Big belief leads to big action, which is the only way to get those big results." - Braxton Kilgo "If you show up to serve, not sell, it will 10x everything that you're doing." - Braxton Kilgo "If you want the magic, you gotta take some risks. There's no risk, there's no magic." - Braxton Kilgo CONNECT WITH BRAXTON KILGO 🌐 Website: https://www.ibelieveinyou.io  🌐 Personal Website: https://www.braxtonkilgo.com  💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/braxton-kilgo-82060ba2  📸 Instagram: @ibelieveinyou.io (for IBIY) and Braxton Kilgo (personal - behind the scenes)   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    42 min

  3. NOV 7

    How One Introduction Created a Multi-Million Dollar Partnership with Theresa Bassett

    What if a single introduction from a stranger you never saw again could change your entire life? In this episode, Theresa Bassett, CEO of The Diamond Group and sales and marketing expert with over $550M in transactions, shares the remarkable story of how a mystery connector named Isabelle introduced her to Kelly Bassett at a running training group and then vanished forever. That one serendipitous moment transformed not only Theresa's personal life but her entire professional trajectory, leading her from Fortune 500 corporate sales to building a thriving 28-year-old family business that now employs a team of 20 and serves small businesses across the nation. Theresa reveals how she "went in kicking and screaming" to entrepreneurship, initially unable to envision herself as a CEO, but discovered her true calling: equipping and empowering small business owners to triple their revenue, build legacy wealth, and create ripple effects that impact entire families and communities. From tripling a home builder's revenue in 18 months to helping a solo orthodontist open five offices and build generational wealth, Theresa's story is a masterclass in the power of partnership, resilience, and saying "yes" even when you can't see the full picture.   [00:05:29] What Theresa Does: Serving Small Business America CEO of The Diamond Group: A sales and marketing growth revenue agency for small businesses Why Small Business? Small businesses provide 86% of jobs in America Theresa counts it as one of her greatest privileges to employ a team of 20 people Every time a team member buys a car, house, or takes a vacation, it feels like a personal victory [00:07:43] The Backstory: From Corporate to Coaching to CEO Trained as a sales professional working for major home builders Merchandised new home neighborhoods for the biggest builders in the world Coached business owners on sales and marketing one-on-one Believed in the power of personalized consulting to elevate brands [00:08:55] The Life-Changing Introduction Both showed up at a running training group Neither could run "a lick"—couldn't even run to the corner A woman named Isabelle was at the front gate Isabelle: "Oh, you're new. There's this other new guy here too. His name's Kelly. I should have you meet." [00:11:40] The Partnership Begins: Joining The Diamond Group Started an agency in San Francisco, California Left the radio industry as a producer to produce radio ads independently Known as "Crash Bassett" in the radio world (crashed his truck into a brick wall on the way to work) When radio consolidated, he pivoted to more video production [00:13:13] Going "In Kicking and Screaming" A marketing agency had never been on her radar "Okay God, what are you up to? Seriously, whatcha up to?" Admits: "I had some selfish motives" [00:16:34] Kelly's Remarkable Pivot Not easy to welcome a new partner into your business Not easy to move yourself from chief/presidency to welcome a CEO alongside you Kelly allowed Theresa's vision to come up alongside his Eventually, her vision became the vision they were calibrating to [00:17:47] Results That Create Ripple Effects Rebranded a couple times along the journey Name reflects the resiliency and strength they build in strong businesses Goal: Build strong, sustainable sales and marketing systems so businesses don't run owners into the ground [00:18:58] Marketing Is About More Than New Customers The Recruiting Connection: "People think of marketing as new clients, customers, and patients, but marketing is also about new team members. Recruiting is a marketing and sales activity. If you want to attract great talent to your team, you gotta have a magnetic brand." [00:21:10] The Power Team Approach Theresa couldn't do this work alone When a client comes in, they get a "power team": essentially a sales and marketing department down the hall Experts rally around the business, create a strategic plan, and execute It's a co-creative collaborative process [00:22:58] Synergy: 1 + 1 = 3 (or 500!) One plus one equals three The ripple effect of exponential partnering impact Her relationship with Kelly is a prime example: "That was a one plus one equals 500 synergistic relationship" [00:24:21] Impact on Employees: Opening Doors Diamond Group hires and recruits a lot of young professionals Marketing is an industry of youth and talent (especially with AI changing everything) Watching employees soar is "a little bit like watching your kids move up and out of the nest" [00:28:10] Racehorses Run Faster Together Put the blinders on so all they can see is forward But they're getting momentum from running right alongside others "I love running with other racehorses" Iron sharpens iron We're all here to help each other— none of us can do it alone   KEY QUOTES "My mission on the planet is to equip and encourage and embolden leaders and their teams." - Theresa Bassett "Sometimes it's just your door that you open to them is the door that unlocks another door. None of that would've been possible if it weren't for Kelly. Him opening his door to me allowed me to open my door to so many others." - Theresa Bassett  "If you want to attract great talent to your team, you gotta have a magnetic brand." - Theresa Bassett "Racehorses are likely to run at least 10% faster when they're next to other racehorses." - Theresa Bassett CONNECT WITH THERESA BASSETT 🌐 Website: https://www.diamond-group.co 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresalbassett Want to grow your business? Visit Diamond-Group.co to request a Clarity Call with a growth specialist. They'll help you assess the state of the union in your business and identify your next best steps forward.   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    30 min

  4. NOV 4

    Building a Healthcare Empire Through Mentorship with Dr. John Gallucci Jr.

    What if one conversation at 16 could shape the next 40 years of your life? In this episode, Dr. John A. Gallucci Jr., President & CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, shares his remarkable journey from a high school wrestler with injuries to building one of the Northeast's largest physical therapy empires with 170 locations serving New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Through the pivotal mentorship of Rich Giardano (a relationship that began with a literal smack to the back of the head and the question "What do you want to STUDY?"), John discovered his calling in sports medicine and learned invaluable lessons about business, integrity, and the importance of balance. From nearly losing everything in the first six months to serving over 700 providers and 2,000 employees, John reveals how one mentor's wisdom about networking, continuous learning, and kindness became the foundation for an organization that treats everyone "like a VIP professional athlete." John reflects on how Rich's mentorship shaped not just his clinical skills, but his approach to building culture, fostering the next generation of leaders, and why he believes "one kind brings two." This principle guides JAG Physical Therapy's mission to help people "get back to the life you love."   [00:04:35] What John Does: Dual-Licensed Healthcare Leader Dual licensed as both a certified athletic trainer (ATC) and physical therapist (PT, DPT) Master's degree in sports science and master's in physical therapy, plus doctorate in physical therapy President, CEO, and Founder of JAG Physical Therapy (John Anthony Gallucci = JAG) [00:08:11] Most Rewarding Case: From "Never Walk Again" to Dancing Woman hit by a taxi cab in New York City Physicians told her she would never walk again without an assisted device John calls this "probably one of the most proudest moments in my professional career" [00:11:05] Growth Strategy: Patients as Best Marketers 80% of growth in just the last two years came from former patients opening doors Patients have spoken to insurance groups, doctors, and healthcare systems to bring JAG into their communities Vision: "My goal is the people that need us have access to us" [00:12:37] Teaching the Next Generation: Network = Net Worth "Your personal network helps you grow your professional network" As professional network grows, it creates more opportunities personally AND professionally Importance of being ingrained in the community while building personal and professional networks [00:13:53] The Million Dollar Question: A Life-Changing Mentor Who Changed Everything: Rich Giardano [00:14:00] Pivotal Person: Rich Giardano - The 40-Year Mentor Has been John's mentor since age 16 (John is now 58) Known Rich his whole life, but formal mentorship began in high school Rich is a physical therapist in sports medicine who worked for the New York Rangers and owned his own practice [00:17:12] The Impact of Mentorship: Building JAG on Rich's Principles Within six months of opening JAG Physical Therapy, they were almost out of business Rich sat down with John and reminded him: "You've got this network of people from being in different worlds of pro sports and collegiate sports. You've gotta be able to use that network to foster growth." Within 18 months, they made their first profit (John's wife Dawn was grateful they didn't lose their home!) [00:19:52] Personal Life: 40 Years Together Family Foundation: Married to Dawn for 35 years this December (together for 40 years total) Known each other since age 9, dating since age 18 Two children: Stephanie and Charles [00:22:41] Advice: Enjoy the Ride John's Best Advice: "No matter what you're building, enjoy the ride. Sometimes you get caught up in it. You gotta enjoy your wins. Everybody has losses. You gotta be able to get back up and fight for the win." Taking moments to sit back and say "wow" about the journey: from 1,800 square feet to 170 locations, from one clinician to 700+ providers. [00:23:20] The Congressional Moment: Realizing the Impact Speaking to Congress: Invited to Washington DC to speak about provision of physical therapy care Topic: Importance of slips and falls prevention for seniors Congressional leader's perspective: "John, you've made an impact in one of the biggest markets in the world, not even in the United States"   KEY QUOTES "The day you stop learning is the day you should no longer be working." - Rich Giardano (John's mentor) "Your personal network helps you grow your professional network. And as your professional network grows, it just gives you more opportunities personally and professionally." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr. "Enjoy the ride. You gotta enjoy your wins. Everybody has losses. You gotta be able to get back up and fight for the win." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr. "The best competitors are those that are also making the competition better." - Dr. John Gallucci Jr. CONNECT WITH DR. JOHN GALLUCCI JR. 🌐 Website: https://www.jagpt.com 📧 Email: info@jagpt.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-a-gallucci-jr-ms-atc-pt-dpt-38b194a (25,000+ connections; reach out for potential synergies, opportunities, jobs, or career direction) 📸 Instagram: @dr.jag.pt (business tips, health insights, networking advice, movement science, cardiac health, branding, and communication skills)   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    29 min

  5. OCT 31

    The Art of Super Connecting: Building Million Dollar Relationships with Michael Dash

    What if the worst chapters of your life could become the foundation for your greatest impact? In this episode, Michael Dash, entrepreneur, author, and self-described "super connector," shares his remarkable journey from 20 years of addiction and a six-year legal battle to becoming a force for connecting entrepreneurs, building meaningful communities, and helping the formerly incarcerated rebuild their lives. Through two pivotal relationships (his entrepreneurial father and spiritual mentor Soleil Rad), Michael discovered how early business training and a transformed prayer practice could unlock his gift for creating life-changing connections. His mission? Bringing like-minded entrepreneurs together to create exponential impact while building the Impact Accelerator alongside Vince Covino and Satya. Michael reflects on how these mentors shaped his path at critical moments and why he believes authentic relationships and community (not transactional connections) are the keys to transforming both business and life.   [00:04:05] What Michael Does: The Super Connector Describes himself as a "super connector" who finds joy in introducing people from his network Runs Live Life Activated retreats focused on aligning entrepreneurs' physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual practices with their vision Has run six retreats over five years, resulting in three businesses, multiple lasting friendships, and relationships formed among participants Currently working with Vince Covino and Satya building the Impact Accelerator: matching impact-driven entrepreneurs with heart-centered investors [00:11:26] Background: From Recruiting to Retreats Spent 20 years in recruiting and staffing, running his own business for 13 years Natural training ground for being a super connector: "basically what you're doing is matchmaking" Lived in Tulum, Mexico for 4.5 years before recently relocating to Austin, Texas Now focused on the Impact Accelerator: training entrepreneurs to receive funding and matching them with investors who want to make an impact beyond just ROI [00:06:53] Connection Success Story: Winner's Circle Heath & Shelly Winter's Partnership: Heath: Tennessee-based entrepreneur, expert at writing and winning grants Shelly Winter: Served five years in prison for addiction, became #1 salesperson at Microsoft after they initially rescinded her offer due to her record Mission: Helping current inmates train while incarcerated and connecting them with companies willing to hire formerly incarcerated individuals Michael's insight: "Imagine if you were judged your entire life by the worst thing you ever did" Now part of the Impact Accelerator community [00:12:01] The Impact Accelerator Vision Bringing entrepreneurs looking for funding together with impact-driven investors Training entrepreneurs first: MVPs, what to ask for, technical requirements for funding Matching with "heart-centered investors": those who want ROI but also want to make the world better Philosophy: "Take a 10-year plan and make it a three-year plan" through strategic partnerships [00:15:10] The Million Dollar Question: A Key Distinction Michael's Perspective on "Life-Changing" Introductions: Challenges the premise: "I don't believe anybody can change your life except you" "Have I been introduced to people who have shifted my perspective, who have laid out another path that I could travel? Absolutely." Key insight: An experience is only life-changing if you take action afterward "It's really all about what each and every one of us actually does with that experience that can make it life-altering" [00:16:34] Pivotal Person #1: His Father The Entrepreneurial Foundation: Father was an entrepreneur who trained Michael from age 8 Worked in father's retail store and import/export business (collectibles: Swarovski, Baccarat, Waterford, Royal Doulton) Learned about sales, relationships, and "schmoozing" as a child Michael's reflection: "At the end of the day, they did the best with what they had" Their connection was through entrepreneurship and sales [00:19:08] Pivotal Person #2: Soleil Rad The Spiritual Transformation: Met in Tulum, Mexico while Soleil was running men's groups Men's work focused on expressing challenges, confronting shadows, sharing darkest secrets, and celebrating wins Reframed prayer as a partnership with God, not begging "Looking at God as a business partner": giving gratitude, asking for what you want, then showing God you're taking action [00:20:39] The Prayer Practice That Changed Everything Michael's New Approach: Training to be grateful throughout the day: for food, home, even rejections and setbacks "Be grateful the person just turned down the business deal. Be grateful I just got cut off. Be grateful the police pulled me over." Attitude of gratitude that "retrieves" the nervous system Philosophy: Training your vessel to receive the light from God [00:24:23] Kevin's Perspective: The Holy Spirit Connection Being a Vessel: Kevin shares story of Marcus Polls telling him: "This work you do is the Holy Spirit working through you" Realization that super connecting is about allowing yourself to be a vessel "Every conversation I have, I'm just here to be me and be the best steward I can" Partnership with God/Holy Spirit/Universe changes perspective on connecting [00:28:21] The Philosophy of Divine Connections Michael's Belief: "The right people are being brought to me for a reason. I don't need to know the reason now." Flow and keep building without attachment to knowing why Accomplishing more together than any individual can alone [00:30:41] Michael's Book: Chasing the High Chronicles his 20-year addiction journey and six-year legal battle Shares entrepreneurship journey and how he turned his life around Available on Amazon and Audible (Michael narrates the audiobook himself) Fair warning: "If you can handle a Jersey accent for four hours, get it on Audible" [00:31:37] Advice for the Shy: Step Into the Magic For Those Who Hesitate: Fear is what holds back the magic of connection If you're intimidated by someone, that's even MORE reason to introduce yourself Our minds are powerful: we can convince ourselves of anything (good, bad, or ugly) Honor your intuition: If it tells you to speak to someone, go speak to them Opening Questions That Work: Instead of "What do you do?" or "Where are you from?" Try: "What brings you joy in life?" Lead with inquisitive questions, not what you do If you struggle with questions, use ChatGPT for help [00:33:15] The Power of Questions Kevin's Story: At San Diego event, asked someone a question and spent the entire 15-minute break listening Person apologized for not learning anything about Kevin They became very good friends That same trip led to starting the Million Dollar Relationships Podcast KEY QUOTES "I don't believe anybody can change your life except you." - Michael Dash "Looking at God as a business partner." - Michael Dash "The right people are being brought to me for a reason. I don't need to know the reason now." - Michael Dash "Step through that fear because that fear is what holds back the magic." - Michael Dash CONNECT WITH MICHAEL DASH 🌐 Website: https://www.michaelgdash.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgdash 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.dash1 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdash1 📖 Book: "Chasing the High" available on Amazon and Audible   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    1 min

  6. OCT 28

    How to Buy Back Your Life with Less Work Hours with George Rivera

    What if the key to scaling to $250 million wasn't working harder, but working less? In this episode, George Rivera, founder of multiple 7- and 8-figure businesses and creator of the Buy Back Time Formula™, shares his 30-year entrepreneurial journey from a high school supplement business to a $250 million empire. Through the devastating loss of his father to cancer and the life-changing deathbed wisdom "don't miss Leo's games, I missed too many of yours," George discovered that the path to freedom wasn't grinding 100-hour weeks but systematically buying back his time. His mission? Helping entrepreneurs escape the "job with overhead" trap so they can scale their businesses while being present for the moments that matter most with their families. George reflects on how his father's final words arrived at exactly the right moment to transform his entire approach to business, and why buying back your time isn't just about making more money but about reclaiming your life before it's too late.   [00:04:19] The 30-Year Journey Begins Started first business in 1995 at age 17-18 while still in high school Fell for Don Lapre's late-night infomercial (tiny apartment, classified ads, rags to riches) Bought the course, took action, made zero dollars, but the entrepreneur seed was planted Parents thought it was a scam, but George kept pursuing home-based business opportunities [00:05:22] The First Real Business: Supplements & The Internet Summer 1995: Started supplement business after seeing space ads in small business magazines Connected two trends: GNC's explosive growth + the internet's rising adoption First online business launched, didn't go well initially 2-3 years into college: Making as much as doctors while studying pre-med [00:06:46] The Weight Loss Empire & Early Lessons Dominated the keyword "weight loss" on GoTo.com for just 50 cents per click Built and eventually ran the first business into the ground, couldn't keep up with orders Lesson #1: Take your time, build infrastructure so you can scale appropriately Built Google AdSense business to seven figures by 2005-2006 [00:08:31] The Digital Marketing Agency Started agency helping clients with BSLs and one-click upsells in their infancy He was the bottleneck, quality controlling everything, no proper org chart Built a job with overhead, not a business [00:10:44] The $250 Million Supplement Company 10 years ago: Started supplement company with $5,000 seed money But George was working 100+ hours per week, burning midnight oil constantly Would pass out at his desk or stumble into bed, wake up 3-4 hours later and repeat "I was like a zombie for a good stretch of a couple of years" Money was great, but life was not enjoyable [00:14:21] The Buy Back Time Formula Birth Around 2018-2019: Applied systematic approach to buy back his time Removed himself as the bottleneck Implemented proper SOPs, documentation, training, and later AI Income went UP because he was no longer the bottleneck Bought back dozens of hours per week [00:16:41] Living the Freedom Lifestyle Friends noticed: "You're in Germany driving the Nürburgring, business still running, how?" 6-7 different people asked him to teach this Held workshop at his home to test if the marketplace wanted it Amazing response—decided to package it officially as Buy Back Time Formula [00:18:05] The Father-Son Story That Changed Everything The pivotal relationship that transformed George's entire approach 2015: George's father diagnosed with cancer in February Six months later, he was gone. "That's just how fast cancer can take you" Dad broke the news when George had just adopted his newborn son Leo George spent every day with his dad, driving 1.5 hours each way [00:20:18] The Deathbed Wisdom The million-dollar moment that changed everything Father's last words: "Don't miss Leo's games. I missed too many of yours." Hit George "like a ton of bricks" Brought closure—his dad acknowledged missing George's childhood games George realized: "I'm on pace to replicate the same mistake" [00:22:03] What Really Matters at the End Father never said on his deathbed: "I wish I'd seen one more patient" Never: "I wish I'd closed one more property" (he was in real estate too) Never: "I wish I'd taken that client call or upsold them" Only: "Are the people I love around me? I just need them right now" [00:22:52] Training Your Replacement Need focused attention on him or he'll get influence from somewhere else 2015-2018: George knew he had the problem but didn't have the solution yet It took 3 years for the solution to birth itself into something actionable [00:31:37] The 100-Hour Grind Reality Was working 80-100+ hours per week Weekends meant LESS interruptions, so worked even HARDER Wasn't healthy for mind, wasn't healthy for family Not a sustainable long-term strategy [00:32:33] Life After Buying Back Time Real freedom looks like: Now works 20-30 hours per week when in creation mode Can work as little as 5 hours per week when traveling Can turn phone off and check back tomorrow, nothing falls apart If something breaks, team handles it without him [00:33:08] God's Purpose Realized "I just feel like it's God's purpose of putting me on the planet to help share this" Secondary benefit: Make more money and nice lifestyle Primary benefit: Being with family for the moments that matter Non-negotiable: Not missing games, graduations, or special moments [00:35:42] Northern Michigan & Homeschool Freedom Bought property in Northern Michigan, turned it into successful Airbnb Teaching son how to negotiate real estate deals and assess properties Son is homeschooled, gets to tag along on their adventures Ultimate flexibility: "We're studying the Washington Monument this week. Let's go see it tomorrow" [00:37:20] The Buy Back Time Formula Available at buybacktimeformula.com Everyone's unique—different reasons for wanting to buy back time Some love working but need to cast vision instead of being in the weeds Focus on high-dollar things that move the needle Structure and confidence from someone who's been at it for 30 years KEY QUOTES "I was like a zombie for a good stretch of a couple of years. Money was great, income was great, but life was not enjoyable." - George Rivera "It's never too late to say, 'Hey, this needs to change 'cause I've already missed moments I'll never get back, but at least I did something about it.' The longer you wait, those missed moments rack up. We wanna be the one that experiences those moments. Not miss 'em." - George Rivera "I was inundated and I didn't know how to properly remove myself as being the bottleneck on a lot of things." - George Rivera CONNECT WITH GEORGE RIVERA 🌐 Website: https://www.georgerivera.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-rivera-53b3296 📚 Buy Back Time Formula: https://www.buybacktimeformula.com   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    3 min

  7. OCT 24

    How Two Relationships Built a Performance Coach with Carla Fowler

    What if middle school endurance training and PhD-level strategic thinking could revolutionize executive coaching? In this episode, Carla Fowler, founder of THAXA and executive coaching expert, shares her unconventional journey from MD/PhD student to surgical resident to performance science coach. Through two pivotal relationships: a demanding outdoor education teacher and a world-class immunology researcher. Carla discovered how physical endurance and strategic thinking form the foundation of extraordinary leadership. Her mission? Helping 50-60 executives at a time accelerate toward their goals using evidence-based performance science while freeing up their mental bandwidth to focus on what matters most. Carla reflects on how these mentors arrived at critical moments in her development and why she believes performance science, not generic leadership advice, is the key to helping leaders achieve breakthrough results. [00:04:00] What THAXA Does THAXA = Executive coaching firm centered on performance science Helps leaders and executives improve results, impact, and leadership Uses rigorous scientific foundation from multiple disciplines Works with 50-60 leaders at a time across diverse industries Every approach is individualized. No cookie-cutter solutions [00:04:00] The Unconventional Path Started career in medicine: MD/PhD program at University of Washington Trained to become an academic physician blending clinical work and research Matched to general surgery residency after graduating Made the hard pivot: left surgery after one year to pursue passion for performance 12 years building a coaching practice that merges science with practical application [00:04:00] The Science Nerd Meets Impact Always fascinated by high performance since fifth grade Loved surgery for its hands-on + decision-making combination Realized coaching could create exponential impact: improve one leader, impact everyone they lead Performance science is broad and deep enough to meet each client's unique needs Blends everything from business strategy to physiology and decision-making [00:16:40] The Power of Mental Clarity Example: Multi-hour focus sessions to help leaders get crystal clear on goals One client shared their clarity framework with their team. Team "lit up" Team members could finally see where they fit and why they mattered Result: Better alignment AND genuine motivation from one strategic input Shows the power of performance science: one principle creates multiple downstream effects [00:20:40] Two Pivotal People [00:21:38] 1. Fran Call: The Physical Endurance Teacher Middle school outdoor education teacher (7th and 8th grade) Ran alternative PE program focused on endurance activities Showed Carla how to do hard things and believe in herself [00:30:00] 2. Phil Greenberg: The Strategic Thinking Mentor PhD advisor in immunology at University of Washington Early pioneer in T-cell immunotherapy for cancer research Very hands-off mentor. Forced Carla to think independently The game-changer: Pushed on the quality of her thinking, not just productivity Would challenge: "Why are you doing that experiment? What's most valuable to learn?" [00:37:20] The Million-Dollar Question Working with entrepreneur who wanted to sell company for specific valuation Client stopped mid-conversation: "I need to raise my prices immediately" That one insight contributed to over $1 million in company value [00:41:40] The Ripple Effect Philosophy Not just about what leaders need to DO, but WHO is around them Both mentors arrived at exactly the right moments in Carla's development Physical endurance (Fran) + Strategic thinking (Phil) = Her unique coaching approach Leaders don't have to figure everything out alone. The world's highest performers don't Relationships create impacts that cascade through our entire lives   KEY QUOTES "A lot of times we think we have to have this super linear path to get a place. Mine was linear for a while and then took a major left turn. I think it's great to always just have stories where you can always make pivots in your career." - Carla Fowler "If I could help connect leaders to science and ideas that would help them improve, like their ability to inspire or connect or lead, if I could improve them even just a little bit, the number of people who would be impacted by that and who would get the downstream effect would be many." - Carla Fowler "Part of coaching is having a process that turns the soil. You don't know what it's gonna be and you don't know when it's gonna happen. But sometimes that's what it looks like if you have a good process." - Carla Fowler CONNECT WITH CARLA FOWLER 🌐 Website: https://www.thaxa.com  💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-fowler   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    43 min

  8. OCT 21

    Breaking Free from the Sales Trap with Steve Caton

    What if saying yes to significance over money could unlock a decade of impact and lead you to build the business you were always meant to create? In this episode, Steve Caton, founder of Altezza Solutions and fractional sales expert, shares his remarkable journey from rejecting his banker father's career path to becoming a champion for trapped founders. Through four pivotal relationships, each arriving at exactly the right moment, Steve learned the art of relational sales, the discipline of the sales process, the courage to choose significance, and the confidence to finally launch his own company. His mission? Freeing brilliant founders from the sales trap so they can lead their vision while spending more time at the dinner table with their families. Steve reflects on how the right mentors at the right time shaped his career and why he believes the fractional sales model is a game-changer for emerging growth companies stuck between $1-5 million in revenue.   [00:06:00] What Altezza Does Altezza = Italian word for "altitude" (inspired by Colorado living) Provides fractional sales expertise AND execution Frees brilliant founders trapped doing sales instead of leading their vision Allows business owners to focus on what truly matters: building their extraordinary future [00:06:40] The Sales Trap is Real Emerging growth businesses started by visionary innovators Founders know they need to stop selling but don't have the framework Can't attract top-tier salespeople without proper sales infrastructure Hiring inexperienced or commission-only reps almost always fails [00:08:20] The Innovator's Journey Steve discovered he's wired as an innovator and starter Thrives in early-stage growth companies ($1-5M revenue range) Gets restless when companies become routine without innovation Spent career helping companies bring in their first real salesperson [00:11:00] The COVID Pivot Waited until last son graduated college to start the business Launched during COVID pandemic, initially seemed like bad timing Actually worked in their favor: remote work became normalized Altezza operates 100% remotely, selling remotely [00:12:00] The Sweet Spot Client Professional services or technology firms $1-5 million in revenue range Founder still trapped in the sales motion Highly relational, consultative sales needed Can sell remotely without boots-on-the-ground [00:13:00] Three Service Models Do It Yourself: Client has sales infrastructure, just needs the right salesperson Done With You: Some documentation exists, needs tweaking and 90-day support Done For You: Everything lives in founder's head, must extract, document, and build systems [00:14:40] Beyond the Numbers Stories of 40% sales increases and doubled revenue matter But the real win: founders getting home for dinner more often Client's wife thanked their salesperson: "My husband is home for dinner way more" Freedom founders dreamed of when starting their business [00:17:40] Four Pivotal People [00:18:40] 1. His Dad: The Passion Banking and finance background Ton of passion, drive, fire, and energy Steve internalized that drive but knew banking wasn't his path Couldn't envision putting on a suit and tie every day [00:19:23] 2. David: The Relational Sales Master Left high-paying pharmaceutical job to start real estate company Invited Steve to get real estate license and sell with him 10 years older, taught Steve everything about relationship-driven sales How to build rapport, ask open-ended questions, and shut up and listen Made way more money in real estate than he would have in banking [00:22:11] 3. Doug Sherman: The Process Guru Held record for highest math score on Air Force Academy entrance exam Sales consultant for companies like Boeing Helped Boeing overcome getting "their butt kicked by Airbus" Game changer: Taught Steve about sales PROCESS for the first time [00:25:24] 4. Jerry Melek: The Significance Prophet Grandfather of kid on Steve's son's football team Career counselor and recruiter with strong faith Steve at crossroads: high-paying jobs vs. low-paying significant opportunity Jerry's challenge: "You told me you wanted significance. This is black and white. Which job is about significance? If you care about significance and not money, this is a no-brainer." Hit Steve right between the eyes, he was too fearful to do what he felt led to do [00:29:00] 5. Don Martin: The Business Leadership Mentor Former Century 21 executive team member Gave Steve the tools to actually LEAD a company and be a business owner Helped Steve see he wasn't launching Altezza because of fear "God created you for this moment: see it, own it, have faith, take the step" Still there for challenges, rough days, pep talks, and "kicks in the ass" [00:31:40] The Ripple Effect Moment Leaving the company Jerry helped him join Spontaneous going away party with his team One by one shared the impact Steve had on them Gave him caricature with signatures and encouragement [00:34:49] The "Go With Others" Glass Gift from team member at that farewell gathering Reminder of ripple effects Steve won't get to see Still uses it 9 years later: an anchor to that meaningful season Physical reminder of choosing significance over salary KEY QUOTES "We don't get wherever we are in life by ourselves. It's always with the help that we get from other people we intersect with on the journey along the way." - Steve Caton "When a company got to a certain size, I started getting super restless because God wired me as an innovator and a starter. When you put me in an early stage growth company, I'm thriving. As soon as it starts to feel routine, I get bored." - Steve Caton CONNECT WITH STEVE CATON 🌐 Website: https://www.altezzasolutions.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scaton Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify |  iHeart Radio | Stitcher

    38 min
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About

Have you ever been introduced to a person that completely changed the course of your business or your life… so much so, that much of what you have today wouldn't be possible, if not for this person? Each week on The Million Dollar Relationships Podcast, your host Kevin Thompson interviews successful entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs as they share their personal stories and experience around this very question. Your invitation is to have a seat at the head of the table as they honor and introduce you to the most valuable people in their lives and remind us that relationship capital is the most valuable asset we possess. Each week you'll be inspired and motivated to intentionally create more meaningful, rewarding and profitable relationships in your life so that together we can make a far bigger impact in this world.

Information

  • Creator
    Kevin Thompson
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    334
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2022 - All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Million Dollar Relationships

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