Pay Your Dues with Greg Inglin: Exploring the Struggle before Success

Greg Inglin

Curious what drives the world’s most successful leaders to keep going even when failure seems inevitable? This podcast is a motivational discussion for ambitious leaders, entrepreneurs, and those committed to personal growth. We’ll uncover stories of mental resilience & leadership challenges from athletes, business leaders, and entertainment icons. Whether you’re building a career, seeking redemption stories, or the best motivational podcast for self-improvement, this podcast delivers actionable advice. Subscribe to the podcast for lessons from failure and the motivation to progress forward.

  1. VOR 6 TAGEN

    Brandon Bakke: Leadership Lessons from the Bench

    Brandon Bakke had a decision to make. After accepting a scholarship to play basketball at Fresno State, he found himself on the bench. A back-up, role player, or bench warmer is often the phrase and it can lead to resentment and negativity as most players want to get in the game. Brandon found a different approach, one as a culture builderand learned to own his role and to fight what he calls “me-ism”. It changed his life and has helped him not only as a player, but later as a coach and school administrator. Brandon shares his story in a new booked called Lessons fromthe Bench, and this applies to sports, parenting, and the workplace where teamwork is key. Guest Resources IG: @brandonbakke12 Facebook: @lessonsfromthebench Website: www.lessonsfromthebench.org Book: Lessons from the Bench   Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his websiteor LinkedIn. If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating!   Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Team Dynamics 02:58 The Journey from Star to Support 05:28 Understanding Me-ism and Its Impact 08:09 The Role of Coaches in Team Culture 10:45 Navigating Modern Challenges in Team Sports 13:35 Lessons from Legendary Coaches 16:16 The Importance of Purpose in Team Roles 19:15 Celebrating the Bench and Its Impact 22:06 Real-Life Examples of Role Players in Sports 27:39 The Power of the Ready Squad 28:40 Trent Dilfer's Journey: From Backup to Super BowlChampion 32:20 Embracing Your Role: The Bench Player's Mindset 37:55 The Importance of Culture and Communication 43:25 Lessons from the Bench: Parenting and Adversity 47:26 The Journey of Writing a Book: Vulnerability andPurpose

    57 Min.
  2. 30. MÄRZ

    Matt Jones: The Risk and Reward of Building a Global Gin Brand

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Matt Jones,co-founder of Four Pillars Gin, as he shares his unconventional journey from economist to entrepreneur. Discover how strategic risk-taking, storytelling, and brand building fueled his success in creating a globally recognized craft gin brand. Matt’s journey takes him from Australia, to London, to NewYork, and back to Australia where the Four Pillars Gin brand takes shape.  Matt’s humble approach underlines a key sensefor understanding human behavior and how to build a product with that in mind.  Enjoy this conversation that covers Matt’s own story. Guest Resources LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-jones-433a1bb/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/lessons_from_gin/ Website: https://www.thinkstoryexperience.com/ Book: Lessons From Gin   Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his websiteor LinkedIn. If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating! Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments: Chapters 00:00 The Journey of an Accidental Entrepreneur 04:01 Navigating Career Risks and Transitions 06:49 Understanding Human Behavior in Business 10:05 The Evolution of Brand Building 12:57 The Importance of Clarity and Storytelling 15:52 From Consulting to Co-Founding a Gin Company 18:58 Building a Brand with Purpose 21:56 Creating Emotional Connections with Consumers 25:02 The Challenges of Starting a Business 28:05 Navigating Uncertainty and Growth 30:58 Reflecting on the Entrepreneurial Journey 37:46 Navigating Risks and Long-Term Strategies 40:26 The Value of Equity and Team Dynamics 42:18 Theories of Business and Brand Growth 47:40 Aligning on Business Goals and Exit Strategies 52:00 Balancing Risk and Reward in Business Decisions 58:03 Operational Freedom and Strategic Growth 01:02:41 Reflecting on Success and Lessons Learned

    1 Std. 13 Min.
  3. 9. MÄRZ

    Chris Ballew: From Rock & Roll Front Man to Casper Babypants, an Epic Musical Journey

    Chris Ballew, burst onto the music scene in the mid-90’s in Seattle, when grunge was all the rage. But his unique sound with his fun-loving ban, The Presidents of the United States of America was a refreshing change that the world welcomed.  Chris takes us through his musical journey from early influences, navigating fame, and the pressure to perform once they had “made it”.  He also shares how he launched his second musical career asCasper Babypants, a very popular children's music personality. Chris emphasizes the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the support of family throughout his career. Ballew offers insights for aspiring musicians, encouraging them to find joy in their craft and to be present in their creative processes. Guest Resources: Website: https://chrisballew.org/ IG: @chrisballew    Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his websiteor LinkedIn.If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating!   Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments: Chapters 00:00 The Musical Journey Begins 02:41 Childhood Influences and Early Music Experiences 05:43 The Formation of Bands and Musical Relationships 08:15 Navigating the Path to Professional Music 11:04 Busking and the Struggles of Early Music Life 14:01 Returning to Seattle and the Rise of the Presidents 16:44 Collaborating with Beck and Creative Influences 19:35 The Pressure of Fame and Record Deals 22:18 Balancing Internal and External Pressures 24:58 Reflections on Career Choices and Growth 29:55 The Evolution of Musical Aspirations 31:50 Transitioning Between Bands: The Crossfade 33:54 The Joy of Kids' Music: A New Direction 36:43 Personal Life and Musical Growth 38:31 The Creative Process: Writing for Kids 39:51 Collaboration and Musical Identity 43:03 Exploring New Sounds: Solo Projects 45:41 Navigating Creative Blocks 47:17 Reflections on a Musical Journey 53:53 Advice for Aspiring Musicians

    1 Std. 6 Min.
  4. 23. FEB.

    Keira D'Amato: From "Hobby Jogger" to American Marathon History

    At one time, Keira D’Amato described herself as a “hobbyjogger”, but she’s about the only one that would see it that way. After a stellar high school and college running career, Keira became a professional runner, but injuries and the pressure that comes with being a pro lead her to retire in her mid 20’s. She took eight years off from running, got married, had twokids, and that’s when the hobby kicked in. On this episode of Pay Your Dues, Keira takes us through the amazing transformation she engineered in her mid-30’s, going from hobby jogger to one of the faster marathon runners in the world. She topped that off by breaking the American Women’s marathon record, an amazing feat for anyone, let alone someone that had been away from running for nearly adecade. Her book, Don’t Call it a Comeback, is chalk full of greatstories and plenty of laughs, and so is this conversation. Keira is the “every woman”, except she just happens to be really fast.  Her story will inspire you to seek new challenges and to have fun along the way. (Note, after taping this episode, Keira decided to address ahip injury that had been bothering her, so she will not be running the Boston Marathon in 2026, but we do look for her to get back on her feet and to come back strong for her future races!) Guest Resources: IG: @keiradamato Website: www.keiradamato.com Book: Don’t Call it a Comeback Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his websiteor LinkedIn. If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating!  Want to skip to the good part?Here’s this episode’s segments: Chapters   00:00 The Boston Marathon 04:31 Round One vs. Round Two: A Runner's Evolution 07:22 Finding Balance: Motherhood and Running 10:33 The Power of Community in Running 13:30 Overcoming Guilt: A Mother's Perspective 16:23 The What If Mentality: Embracing Possibilities 19:45 Breaking Records: The Houston Marathon Experience 29:39 Breaking Barriers: The Journey to a New Record 34:22 Life After the Record: Balancing Fame and Family 37:01 Playing with House Money: Embracing the Second Chance 38:45 Adapting Training: The Evolution of a Runner 40:36 Mental Toughness: Preparing for the Pain Cave 44:11 Welcoming Community: The Support of Fellow Runners 46:26 Lessons from Disappointment: The Olympic QualifierExperience 49:47 Training at Altitude: New Challenges and Opportunities 52:56 Encouragement for Dreamers: Pursuing GoalsAuthentically 54:21 Aiming for the Future: The Road to LA 2028 55:49 The Mental Benefits of Running: More Than Competition 57:02 Overcoming Doubt: The Power of Belief 59:11 Not a Comeback: A Journey of Growth Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his websiteor LinkedIn.   Ifyou’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating!   Want to skip to the good part?Here’s this episode’s segments:

    1 Std. 1 Min.
  5. 10. FEB.

    James Donaldson: NBA, Mentors, and His Life Saving Battle with Depression

    James Donaldson has an amazing story you need to hear. He enjoyed a long, productive basketball career spanning 20 years, with 14 of those in the NBA. He is a big man with a big heart, and his energy can fill a room.  When he moved from the basketball court to the business world, it was a smooth transition. But that all changed suddenly in 2015 with a trip to the emergency room. A heart condition he knew nothing about almost killed him.After twelve hours of surgery, two weeks in a medically induced coma, and three months in intensive care, his battle was only beginning.  Four major surgeries in five years, and his world was falling part. James lost it all: his health, life savings, marriage, business, and home all within a year's time. Hedeclared bankruptcy, lost his home to foreclosure, had to close his long-running business. James was struggling in silence and contemplated suicide.  He battled through the darkness over twelve difficult months and decided to share his story in order to help others. From those dark days he found hope, joy, and purpose and he is committed to speaking up on the topic of depression and mental health. In this conversation, James takes us through his journey and shares his efforts to inspire others to seek help and find purpose in their lives. Guest Resources: Book: Celebrating your gift of Life: From the Verge of Suicide to a life of Purpose and Joy. Foundation: Your Gift of Life Foundation https://yourgiftoflife.org/ Podcast: Standing Above the Crowd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.donaldson.9634340 Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his websiteor LinkedIn.If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating! Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments:Chapters 00:00 Nostalgic Beginnings: A Basketball Camp Reunion 02:58 Community Impact: The Role of Sports in Youth Development 05:50 Basketball Legacy: Seattle's Rich History 08:41 From Player to Professional: James Donaldson's Journey 11:08 Mentorship in Sports: Lessons from George Raveling and Lenny Wilkins 14:13 Life After Basketball: Transitioning to Business 17:12 Health Crisis: A Life-Altering Experience 19:53 Struggles with Mental Health: The Aftermath of Adversity 29:42 Facing Darkness: A Personal Journey 33:50 The Catalyst for Change: Tyler's Story 36:21 Understanding Hopelessness: The Depth of Despair 41:11 Breaking the Stigma: Men and Mental Health 45:00 The Need for Representation: Mental Health in Communities of Color 47:38 Empowering the Next Generation: Speaking to Youth 50:58 The Impact of Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword 55:58 The Importance of Connection: Reaching Out to Others 59:54 A Life of Purpose: From Athlete to Advocate

    1 Std. 9 Min.
  6. 20. JAN.

    Jordan Brady: Commercial Directing in Hollywood, and the Love of the Craft

    In this fun and engaging conversation, Jordan Brady shareshis journey from stand-up comedian to successful commercial director, emphasizing the importance of identity, creativity, and collaboration. He discusses the influence of his family on his career, the lessons learned from his time spent on the road as a comedian, and the evolution of filmmaking in the age of AI. Brady also reflects on the joy of mentorship and the significance of giving back to the community, all while maintaining a sense of humor and passion for his craft. This is someone that clearly cares about his workplace, his team, and having fun along the way. Guest Resources:Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/respect-the-process/id712578722 IG: @thatjordanbrady Website: www.trueagent.tv LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thatjordanbrady/ Book: Commercial Directing Voodo About My Guest: Jordan Brady has directed over 1300 commercials. Plus four feature films, (“Dill Scallion”, “Waking Up In Reno”) three full-length documentaries (“I Am Comic” trilogy), one Netflix comedy special in Maria Bamford's living room. A stand-up comedian in a prior life, he’s credited with originating the now-ubiquitous phrase “Bow Chicka Bow Wow” in the 80’s. In the 90’s, he hosted game shows on MTV, NBC and Comedy Central. His short return to stand-up was in 2016 to perform in Afghanistan for our U.S. troops while filming "I Am Battle Comic." Brady donated 100% of the profits from the film to veterans and military families. He’s the founder of both True Gent & Commercial Directing Film School and hosts the filmmaking podcast "Respect The Process." Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his ⁠website⁠ or ⁠LinkedIn⁠. If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating!   Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments: Chapters 03:40 The Role of Fatherhood in Career 06:44 From Ohio to LA: The Creative Path 09:43 Stand-Up Comedy: The Early Days 12:49 The Move to Los Angeles: Chasing Dreams 15:49 Navigating the Comedy Scene 18:40 Transitioning Behind the Camera 24:15 First Steps into Commercial Directing 24:45 The Evolution of a Filmmaker 27:43 Balancing Film and Commercial Work 30:41 Reflections on Career Choices 34:16 The Journey of a Commercial Director 34:52 Comedy's Influence on Directing 36:18 Navigating the Commercial Landscape 38:08 The Role of Actors in Commercials 39:47 The Joy of Collaboration 42:24 Creative Problem Solving in Filmmaking 44:43 Self-Taught Filmmaking and Learning 47:42 The Value of Film School 49:29 Teaching Filmmaking: A Personal Journey 53:10 Creating Educational Content for Filmmakers 56:32 The Impact of AI on Filmmaking 59:51 The Future of Commercial Directing 01:05:33 The Pinnacle of Commercials: Super Bowl Ads 01:07:50 Memorable Moments in Filmmaking 01:13:28 The Importance of Passion in Work

    1 Std. 18 Min.
  7. 6. JAN.

    Alan Stein Jr: Lessons from the NBA and a "Next Play" mentality

    Alan Stein Jr. spent 15 years working with some of the best NBA athletes in the world and he's taken those lessons into the next phase of his life. In this conversation, Alan discusses the power of mindset and the journey of self-improvement which are highlighted in his most recent book, Next Play. Alan shares insights on how to overcome fear, the importance of self-compassion, and practical steps for living intentionally. Alan also reflects on the human side of athletes and the commonalities between performance in sports and business. Guest Resources: website: https://alansteinjr.com Alan on IG: @alansteinjr About My Guest: Alan Stein Jr. is an internationally renowned corporate keynote speaker and performance coach who spent more than fifteen years working with some of the highest-performing athletes on the planet, including NBAsuperstars Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Kobe Bryant. He delivers a powerful, high-energy message from stage, and his client list includes many of the most recognized brands in the world, such as Pepsi, Charles Schwab, American Express, Spotify, and Starbucks. A masterful storyteller, he revealshow the same strategies that elite athletes use to perform at a world-class level will help organizations improve performance, productivity, cohesion, accountability, and culture. He is the proud father of twin sons (Luke and Jack) and a daughter (Lyla), has written two previous books ( Raise Your Game and Sustain Your Game ), and lives just outside of Washington, DC. Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his website or LinkedIn. If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating!   Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments: 00:00 New Year, New Mindset 14:10 Emotional Resilience and Growth 24:33 Lessons from the Court: Insights from NBA Greats 30:36 Always Becoming: The Journey of Self-Improvement 31:18 Overcoming Negative Self-Talk 34:22 Compassionate Self-Talk: Treating Yourself Like a Loved One 36:39 Mindset: The Power of Choice 40:56 Next Play: Embracing the Present Moment 45:24 Facing Fears: The Importance of Being Present 48:37 Bookends of the Day: Intentional Living 51:35 The Human Side of Professional Athletes 53:46 Performance Improvement in Business 57:17 Optimism for the Future: The Best is Yet to Come

    1 Std.
  8. 22.12.2025

    George Gilder: Writing and Running at 86 Years Young

    In this episode of Pay Your Dues, Greg Inglin talks withGeorge Gilder, a prominent American economist, futurist, author, and investor, famous for his influential work on supply-side economics (especially his book Wealth and Poverty) and his insightful analyses of technology's impact, predicting the rise of the internet and blockchain.  But did you know that George is also an accomplished runner, who is still putting in the miles at the age of 86 years old? Amazing! George shares his story of how he started running, and whyit is so important to him to this day.  Often running six miles per day, George recently finished second in the World Championship 10K for his age division.  This inspiring story of perseverance and pure enjoyment for movement will help motivate you in your own life.  Guest Resources: The Gilder Technology Report: https://www.gilderreport.com/ Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/49124414 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ggilder1   Guest idea? Feedback? Connect with Greg on his website or LinkedIn. If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating! Want to skip to the good part? Here’s this episode’s segments: 00:00 The Joy of Coaching and Running 03:53 A Lifelong Passion for Running 06:38 Staying Active in Winter 09:15 Competitive Spirit in Aging 12:06 The Connection Between Running and Mental Clarity 14:24 Diet and Longevity 16:54 Managing Expectations in Running 19:27 The Philosophy of Time and Money 26:45 The Value of Time as Currency 33:23 The Evolution of Technology and Time Management 40:06 Predictions and Reflections on Technology 46:59 The Impact of AI and Future Technologies 54:40 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations

    1 Std. 3 Min.

Info

Curious what drives the world’s most successful leaders to keep going even when failure seems inevitable? This podcast is a motivational discussion for ambitious leaders, entrepreneurs, and those committed to personal growth. We’ll uncover stories of mental resilience & leadership challenges from athletes, business leaders, and entertainment icons. Whether you’re building a career, seeking redemption stories, or the best motivational podcast for self-improvement, this podcast delivers actionable advice. Subscribe to the podcast for lessons from failure and the motivation to progress forward.