Future Factory

Anthony Amunategui

The Future Factory Podcast is your go-to business podcast for seeing the future in real time. Hosted by founder of CDO Group, Anthony Amunategui, where he is joined by some of the most influential and respected guests in the business world. From young entrepreneurs changing the world via startups, to leaders of established big name brands across the world.

  1. 21 HR AGO · VIDEO

    How Agentic AI Helps Small Companies Grow Faster | Gilad Bechar

    Summary  In this episode, Anthony sits down with growth expert Gilad Bechar to break down how companies can use Agentic AI, data, and modern marketing systems to unlock massive growth. Gilad shares the strategies his team uses to help some of the largest companies in the world - including Google, Uber, Samsung, and Reddit - find product-market fit, optimize messaging, and scale faster. From testing marketing funnels and analyzing competitors with AI to creating hyper-targeted campaigns that convert, this conversation dives deep into how founders and entrepreneurs can compete - even with small budgets. If you want to understand how AI is reshaping marketing, customer acquisition, and business growth, this episode is packed with practical insights. Special Guest Gilad Bechar is a growth strategist and entrepreneur who helps companies unlock scalable growth through data, AI, and advanced marketing systems. Over the past decade, he and his team have worked with more than 1,000 brands, including global platforms like Google, Uber, Samsung, and Reddit, helping them refine messaging, optimize funnels, and reach the right customers at the right time. Gilad specializes in helping both startups and established companies identify product-market fit, run rapid experimentation, and use AI-driven insights to accelerate growth. Chapters: 00:00 - Introducing Gilad and Agentic AI for Growth 03:20 - From Working With Google and Uber to Helping Startups 06:10 - Shoestring Budgets and Finding Product–Market Fit Fast 09:10 - Using Competitor Data and AI to Reverse Engineer Winning Ads 12:30 - Learning From How Giants Like Tinder, Facebook, and Amazon Grew 15:20 - Pricing Models, LTV, and Different Growth Levers by Business Type 18:05 - Funnels That Work for Any Business: From Pain Point to Aha Moment 21:10 - Reducing Friction and Matching Messages to Different User Intents 24:20 - Local Services Example: Landscaping, Neighborhood Targeting, and FOMO 28:10 - Hyper-Personalization by Audience, Location, and Use Case 32:30 - Multi-Funnel Websites, Career Pages, and Why Entrepreneurs Don’t Implement GILAD'S INFO: Website: https://moburst.com/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/begilad/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdr... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207...   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram:   / futurefactorypodcast   Twitter:   / futurefactoryff   Facebook:   / futurefactorypodcast   LinkedIn:   / futurefactorypodcast   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactory... ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:    / anthonyamunategui   Facebook:   / anthony.amunategui.3   Find great guests at PodMatch https://podmatch.com/

    41 min
  2. 3 DAYS AGO · VIDEO

    The Simple Investing Strategy That Beats Wall Street | Robert Rolih

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with investor and financial educator Robert Rolih to break down the truth about investing, financial advisors, and long-term wealth building. Robert explains why most investors overcomplicate the market, how small management fees can quietly destroy your long-term returns, and why simple strategies like low-cost ETFs and consistent investing often outperform professional fund managers. The conversation explores the psychology of investing, the dangers of short-term trading, and how everyday investors can take control of their financial future using disciplined long-term strategies. This episode is a powerful guide for anyone who wants to build wealth without falling into the traps of Wall Street complexity. Special Guest Robert Rolih is a financial educator, investor, and creator of the Millionaire Money Making Machine investing program. After experiencing major losses early in his financial journey by trusting traditional financial advisors, Robert dedicated himself to mastering long-term investing strategies focused on low fees, diversification, and disciplined market behavior. Since 2012, he has helped thousands of investors across more than 70 countries learn how to build wealth through simple, evidence-based investing principles. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro, Robert’s background and why investing feels confusing 01:53 - Global ETFs explained and avoiding stock-picking stress 04:08 - Young investor strategy: risk, crypto, and avoiding penny stocks 05:49 - Power of compounding and long-term mindset 06:32 - Why short-term trading is a losing game 07:54 - What to actually buy: ETFs, tech, and Bitcoin as “digital gold” 08:48 - How to choose ETFs and the danger of high fees 11:28 - The true long-term cost of a 1% management fee 13:07 - Robert’s wake-up call and taking control of personal finance 14:29 - Using AI (Zoe/ChatGPT) and filtering out financial “noise” 18:04 - Market panics, optimism, and Robert’s long-term investing group ROBERT'S INFO: Website: https://robertrolih.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-ro... Book: The Million Dollar Decision - available on Amazon  PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdr... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207...   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram:   / futurefactorypodcast   Twitter:   / futurefactoryff   Facebook:   / futurefactorypodcast   LinkedIn:   / futurefactorypodcast   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactory... ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:    / anthonyamunategui   Facebook:   / anthony.amunategui.3   Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefa...

    32 min
  3. 6 MAR · VIDEO

    The Inner Game That Makes Entrepreneurs Unstoppable | Rajesh Nagjee

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Rajesh Nagjee to explore the inner game of entrepreneurship and why so many founders struggle to scale their businesses. Rajesh challenges the belief that failure means incompetence and explains how growth often requires stepping into temporary “incompetence” as leaders evolve to the next level. Together, they dive into the psychology of leadership, the importance of clear mental space, and the hidden distractions that prevent entrepreneurs from performing at their best. Rajesh also breaks down practical frameworks around integrity, alignment, and necessary conditions for business success, offering a powerful perspective on how leaders can simplify complexity and unlock sustainable growth. Special Guest Rajesh Nagjee is a business coach, speaker, and founder of Last Resort Coaching. He works with entrepreneurs and leadership teams to overcome internal bottlenecks that prevent businesses from scaling. Through his coaching, Rajesh helps founders shift their mindset, strengthen their inner game, and build organizations that operate with clarity, alignment, and purpose. Drawing from decades of experience and lessons learned through the “school of hard knocks,” he equips leaders with simple yet powerful frameworks to improve performance, decision-making, and long-term business growth. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and welcoming Rajesh to the podcast 02:06 – Promotion = new incompetence: inner vs. outer game 05:05 – Deep work, distraction-free focus, and beginner’s mind 08:05 – Clear space as the #1 goal in life and business 10:14 – Overwhelmed founder story and the power of naming “betrayal” 14:29 – Escaping the past-present trap and living at the present-future intersection 18:24 – Morality vs. workability: integrity, alignment, and necessary & sufficient 24:10 – Values on the wall vs. values in action and universal business principles 30:22 – Long arrow, small arrows, and chunking complex processes 38:44 – Fixed process vs. fixed outcome, and minimizing time & risk 46:28 – What great coaching really is and how to work with Rajesh RAJESH'S INFO: Website: https://rajeshnagjee.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rajeshnagjee/videos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajeshnagjee/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    54 min
  4. 4 MAR · VIDEO

    Stop Burning Out Your Team - The Optimal Performer Method | Matt Granados

    Summary  In this episode, Anthony sits down with Matt Granados to challenge the grind culture most entrepreneurs wear as a badge of honor. Matt introduces the concept of moving from high performer to optimal performer — maintaining elite output without burning out yourself or your team. Together, they debate hustle vs sustainability, discipline vs distraction, and how leaders can create intentional margin without sacrificing results. From the “20 Mile March” principle to truth-based transformation, this conversation dives deep into awareness, leadership, and building businesses that scale without destroying the people inside them. Special Guest Matt Granados is a performance coach, speaker, and founder of LifePulse, where he helps executives, entrepreneurs, and high-performing teams move from burnout-driven success to sustainable, optimal performance. Through workshops, executive coaching, and organizational overhauls, Matt equips leaders with practical frameworks to improve focus, accountability, discipline, and fulfillment — both in business and at home. His work centers on truth-based transformation, intentional growth, and helping teams close performance gaps without sacrificing long-term health. Chapters: 00:00 – Can grind culture really be sustainable? 01:14 – The 20-Mile March and Southwest’s disciplined growth 03:05 – High performers vs. optimal performers 04:09 – Whole-person performance and the “inefficiency epidemic” 07:26 – “I can’t” vs. responsibility and calling 10:14 – Boundaries, overwork, and the difference between nice and kind leadership 16:33 – Discipline, parenting, and the difference between managing and babysitting 20:29 – Analysis paralysis, distraction, and deep work 24:43 – Spiritual perspective, purpose, and “go slow to go fast” 32:27 – Addiction, phones, sugar, and building helpful friction 45:25 – Hitting rock bottom, self-awareness, and how Matt works with teams MATT’S INFO: Website: https://www.lifepulseinc.com/ Podcast: https://www.lifepulseinc.com/podcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattgranados PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    51 min
  5. 27 FEB · VIDEO

    Your Rock Bottom Is the Foundation You Build On | Hilary Momberger Powers

    Summary  In this episode, Hilary Momberger Powers shares her powerful journey from trauma, addiction, and self-destructive patterns to becoming a sobriety and recovery coach who helps others rebuild their lives from the inside out. She and Anthony dive into the psychology of the mind, the illusion of external validation, and why “rock bottom” can actually be the greatest turning point a person experiences. Hilary breaks down practical steps for interrupting negative thought loops, rewiring self-sabotage, and surrendering control to create lasting transformation. This conversation is a raw, honest exploration of resilience, healing, and what it really means to rebuild yourself after life shatters you. Special Guest Hilary Momberger Powers is a recovery and life coach dedicated to helping people overcome addiction, trauma, and destructive mental patterns. Drawing from decades of lived experience, she guides clients through deep inner work, helping them quiet the mind, confront limiting beliefs, and step into a life of purpose and stability. Her coaching focuses on practical transformation, emotional resilience, and learning how to live fully in the present moment. Chapters: 00:00 - Kintsugi, brokenness, and introducing sober coach Hilary 00:48 - Seasons of life: from “more, more, more” to “How can I serve?” 02:38 - Chasing external validation vs. discovering happiness within 04:55 - Hollywood childhood, Charlie Brown, and a narcissistic mother 08:19 - Trauma responses: people-pleasing, isolating, and controlling 11:51 - Mind‑power disease, warped thinking, and early recovery 19:05 - Hitting bottom, grand mal seizure, and learning to surrender 25:33 - Message to struggling women: your bottom as a gift and purpose 30:37 - Rewiring the brain: inventory, stories, and character defects 35:16 - Getting into action despite feelings: prayer and next steps 42:07 - Hillary’s coaching, dumpster diving, and podcast wrap‑up HILARY’S INFO: Website: https://hilarymombergerpowers.com Coaching: https://meetwithhilary.coach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-momberger-powers-078a604/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    43 min
  6. 25 FEB · VIDEO

    Why Leaders Fail Without Storytelling | Gabrielle Dolan

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Gabrielle Dolan to explore why storytelling is one of the most underrated leadership and communication skills in business today. Gabrielle breaks down the science and psychology behind why stories are remembered while data is forgotten, how leaders can use simple personal stories to build trust and influence, and why most professionals struggle to communicate clearly because of the “curse of knowledge.” They dive into practical frameworks for crafting impactful stories, common mistakes leaders make when trying to communicate ideas, and how storytelling can transform the way you connect with teams, clients, and audiences. This conversation is a practical masterclass for anyone who wants to communicate with clarity, build credibility, and make their message stick. Special Guest Gabrielle Dolan is a global keynote speaker, storytelling expert, and author who helps leaders and organizations communicate with impact through authentic storytelling. With over two decades of experience working with executives, teams, and major companies, she specializes in teaching professionals how to turn everyday experiences into powerful stories that build trust, drive engagement, and inspire action. Gabrielle is the author of Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling and is widely recognized for helping leaders become more human, relatable, and effective communicators. Chapters: 00:00 - Introducing Gabrielle Dolan and the power of storytelling 01:00 - The illusion of communication and the “curse of knowledge” 03:40 - Why stories work better than data in change and transformation 06:30 - The risk manager “Copperhead snake” story and its impact 09:40 - Stories as sticky communication: understand, remember, retell 11:30 - Oversharing, vulnerability, and avoiding the “too much story” trap 13:20 - Story length, pacing, and why leaders must “get to the point” 15:50 - Simple story structure: one message, beginning–middle–end 18:40 - Naming characters, showing feelings, and landing the message 20:40 - Authentic vs manipulative storytelling and why truth matters 24:40 - Storytelling as a critical leadership skill + Gabrielle’s book plug and podcast wrap-up GABRIELLE’S INFO: Website: https://www.gabrielledolan.com Book: Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling – Available on Amazon & major retailers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielledolan PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    32 min
  7. 20 FEB · VIDEO

    Why Podcasting Is The New Marketing Advantage | Dennis Meador

    Summary In this episode, Anthony sits down with Dennis Meador to unpack why podcasting is no longer just for creators — it’s becoming one of the most powerful business tools for professionals. Dennis breaks down the real ways podcasts generate revenue beyond ads and sponsorships, how authority positioning attracts high-value clients, and why connection beats content volume every time. They explore the shift from mass marketing to relationship-driven influence, the psychology behind audience trust, and how business owners can use podcasting to build credibility, referrals, and long-term growth. This conversation is a practical playbook for anyone who wants to turn their voice into a strategic advantage. Special Guest Dennis Meador is a podcast strategist, consultant, and founder of a podcast network that helps professionals, entrepreneurs, and firms build authority-driven shows that generate clients, referrals, and market influence. He specializes in positioning leaders as trusted voices in their industries through strategic content, scalable systems, and targeted audience connection. Dennis works with professionals across industries to transform podcasting into a serious growth and relationship-building engine. Chapters: 00:00 - From hobby podcasters to professional podcasts 02:08 - Why podcasting is now a primary channel for authentic connection 06:45 - Forget millions of views: the power of small, core audiences 07:58 - Five ways to monetize a podcast beyond ads and sponsors 11:43 - Becoming a 3D expert: turning professionals into trusted personalities 13:35 - Hernia surgeon story: how niche expertise builds instant demand 17:31 - Authority podcasts for lawyers and professionals with “non-sexy” topics 18:25 - Using podcasts to build powerful referral relationships 25:33 - Overselling vs serving: when your content turns people off 31:05 - Digital languages and being platform-agnostic 40:58 - New platforms (Threads, BlueSky, Pinterest) and balancing value vs self-promotion DENNIS’ INFO: Website: https://www.dmondemand.expert/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennismeador/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thelegalpodcastnetwork_ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    51 min
  8. 18 FEB

    Stop Competing on Price or Your Business Dies | Harrison Tash

    Summary In this episode, Harrison Tash joins Anthony to break down why most businesses struggle to scale — and how the ones that win create unstoppable momentum. They explore the concept of “core promises,” why competing on price is a losing strategy, and how companies can become so valuable that customers willingly pay more and employees stay longer. From leadership honesty and culture building to systems, communication, and future-proofing against AI disruption, this conversation delivers practical frameworks entrepreneurs can apply immediately to strengthen trust, sharpen strategy, and build companies that last. Special Guest Harrison Tash is a business consultant, speaker, and founder of Living Water Consulting, where he helps organizations develop high-performing teams, stronger leadership culture, and scalable operational systems. He specializes in working with trades-based and growth-stage companies, guiding leaders to clarify vision, implement measurable value for customers, and build organizations that thrive through change. Harrison is also the author of Exit Without Leaving, a book focused on leadership, legacy, and building businesses that run effectively without depending on the owner. Chapters: 00:00 - Setting the stage: Harrison’s background & podcast kickoff 03:16 - What are “core promises”? Chick-fil-A vs. Wendy’s 09:54 - Turning strengths into measurable promises (gyms & cleanliness) 12:28 - Roofing & lawn care: escaping the race to the bottom on price 18:51 - Human connection vs. AI customer service 26:13 - Core promises for employees: Chick-fil-A’s culture & Sundays off 31:22 - Competing with “sharks”: price wars, risk, and reinvention 42:02 - Vision of the future: “dirt to dishes in four weeks” & AI in construction 47:43 - Healthy leaders, clarity, and rigorous honesty 55:59 - GROW, INVEST, GUIDE: the GIG framework for leadership 1:21:13 - Systems, vulnerability, and multiplying leaders (wrap-up & Harrison’s offer) HARRISON’S INFO: Website: https://consultlivingwater.com Email: connect@consultlivingwater.com Book: Exit Without Leaving — Available on Amazon & major retailers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrison-tash/ PODCAST INFO: Website: https://FutureFactory.live Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0SsZRdrvWTUs1QY6Zu1sU6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/future-factory/id1659895549 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/207e04aa-11a1-4b28-964a-148608422a49/future-factory   FUTURE FACTORY SOCIAL: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurefactorypodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/FutureFactoryFF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/futurefactorypodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/futurefactorypodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@futurefactorypodcast?_t=8ZIxAf4Orra&_r=1 ANTHONY'S SOCIAL: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/anthonyamunategui/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthony.amunategui.3 Find great guests at PodMatch https://www.joinpodmatch.com/futurefactorypodcast

    1h 38m

About

The Future Factory Podcast is your go-to business podcast for seeing the future in real time. Hosted by founder of CDO Group, Anthony Amunategui, where he is joined by some of the most influential and respected guests in the business world. From young entrepreneurs changing the world via startups, to leaders of established big name brands across the world.