365 Driven

Tony Whatley

Unlock Your Next Level. The 365 Driven Podcast helps entrepreneurs build wealth, master mindset, elevate health, and create powerful relationships - the four pillars of a successful life. Hosted by Tony Whatley, best-selling author of Side Hustle Millionaire and executive coach to high performers.

  1. 6D AGO

    My Take on Acquisitions and Exits

    In this solo episode of 365 Driven, host Tony Whatley pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood topics in entrepreneurship: private equity, mergers & acquisitions, and what "exits" really look like in the real world. Tony starts with hard data that every founder needs to hear—how many businesses actually survive 5 and 10 years, how few ever sell, and why the "big exit" stories on social media distort expectations. He then breaks down how businesses are valued (including multiples and transaction realities), why the median business sale is far lower than most entrepreneurs assume, and what makes a company truly attractive to buyers. From there, Tony shares his perspective on the private equity business model—why firms sometimes "overpay," how roll-ups work, what changes after an acquisition, and why founders should think carefully about transition timelines once they suddenly have a large payout and a new boss. He also addresses the criticism founders often face when they sell, how to think about exits through the lens of business cycles and personal goals, and why complaining about industry consolidation is never a strategy. If you're building with the hope of one day selling—or you want to understand how to increase your valuation, protect your team, and position yourself for a smart exit—this episode delivers the real talk most entrepreneurs don't get until it's too late. Key highlights: Why exits are rarer than entrepreneurs think   The reality of business survival rates (Year 1, 5, and 10)   How many businesses actually sell—and why the number is so low   The truth about average business sale prices   Public reactions to acquisitions: sellouts vs success   How private equity roll-ups really work   The hidden downside of staying on post-exit   Choosing the right buyer vs the highest multiple   Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    32 min
  2. DEC 15

    Going From AI Back to Humanity - with Julia McCoy

    AI is rewriting the rules of entrepreneurship—and Julia McCoy's story proves why the winners won't be the ones working harder, but the ones working smarter. Tony Whatley welcomes Julia —business, marketing, and AI expert—to a conversation that pulls no punches about what's next for entrepreneurs…and what's at stake if you ignore it. After a meteoric run in AI (including building a YouTube audience of 200,000+), Julia shares how a sudden health crisis forced her to rebuild her business from the ground up—often working in 10-minute increments from her phone. That constraint led to an unexpected breakthrough: using AI the right way, not to replace the human, but to replace the grind. Tony and Julia dig into AI "clones," why transparency matters, and how training AI with your voice and expertise can help founders scale content without losing authenticity. Then the conversation goes deeper. Julia explains how her search for answers took her beyond conventional approaches and into research on frequency, bioelectric health, and the future impact of quantum technology—raising big questions about innovation, truth, and what entrepreneurs should pay attention to next. If you're building a business in a world being reshaped by AI, automation, and emerging tech—and you want a real conversation about leveraging these tools without losing your values—this episode will challenge your assumptions and expand your perspective. Key highlights: How to use AI to scale your business without losing your voice Why AI should replace the work—not the human Building and training AI avatars/clones as an extension of your expertise Turning crisis and constraint into innovation and leverage Creating high-impact content with AI in minutes, not hours Why most entrepreneurs misuse AI—and how to avoid generic output What quantum technology and frequency may mean for the future of business and health Connect with Julia McCoy: YouTube: Julia McCoy Website: FirstMovers.ai Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    1h 2m
  3. DEC 1

    The Future of Marketing - with Erik Huberman

    Marketing maestro Eric Huberman joins the 365 Driven Podcast to share his captivating entrepreneurial journey, from his childhood ventures selling lemonade and flowers to building Hawke Media, a powerhouse in digital marketing. Eric's path is a testament to the tenacity and creativity required to thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape. His insights on the importance of maintaining financial health and enjoying the entrepreneurial ride to prevent burnout offer aspiring entrepreneurs a blueprint for sustainable success. The conversation unfolds with Eric's passion for marketing, delving into the challenges and complexities that make this field so dynamic. Eric explains how a genuine interest in a subject can lead to discovering one's calling, supported by anecdotes about his business beginnings and the story behind Hawke Media's name. Eric shares valuable lessons on nurturing potential customers, building trust, and the role of brand validation in successful sales cycles. An exploration of AI's impact on marketing and business futures takes the spotlight, with Eric providing a grounded perspective on the overhyped claims of AI's disruptive potential. Reflecting on the authenticity required in both professional and personal realms, Eric warns against superficial status symbols and emphasizes the importance of genuine passion. This episode wraps up with the wisdom of experience, highlighting the significant role of community knowledge sharing for entrepreneurial growth. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone aiming to leave a mark in the business world. Key highlights: Marketing Passion and Business Beginnings Navigating Challenges in Business and Marketing Building Trust and Sales With Marketing Future of Marketing and AI Impact of AI on Future Business Sharing Entrepreneurial Wisdom for Growth Connect with Erik Huberman: Website: hawkemedia.com Instagram: @erikhuberman Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    51 min
  4. NOV 24

    Build Influence on YouTube - with Nate Woodbury

    Renowned YouTube strategist Nate Woodbury joins The 365 Driven Podcast to uncover the magic of using YouTube for smarter lead generation. While viral fame might seem tempting, Nate reveals how answering specific, long-tail questions on YouTube can attract a dedicated audience looking for your expertise. He unravels the journey from web design to mastering YouTube, emphasizing the art of nurturing prospects over traditional marketing to position yourself as a trusted authority in your field. Explore the dynamic between nurturing and marketing as Nate and Tony discuss the real power of search-driven content. Viral hits may garner attention, but targeted content ensures you are connecting with potential clients genuinely interested in your offerings. Discover how transforming YouTube videos into blog posts enhances searchability, and how platforms like Reddit can amplify your online presence. Tackling camera shyness, this episode covers practical tips to boost your confidence on screen, likening it to a learnable skill akin to public speaking. By focusing on authenticity, personal experience, and a minimalist content approach, you can harness YouTube to grow your business without the overwhelm of technical barriers. Whether you're an aspiring YouTuber or an entrepreneur seeking to maximize online visibility, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your content creation journey and achieve meaningful engagement. Key highlights: YouTube Strategy for Lead Generation The Value of Nurturing vs Marketing YouTube as a Lead Generator Content Strategy for Expertise Impact Maximizing YouTube Lead Generation Strategy Overcoming Fear of Camera Shyness Leveraging Shareability for Business Growth Connect with Nate Woodbury: Sign up for Nate's free webinar: theleafstrategy.com Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    56 min
  5. NOV 17

    Turn Your Expertise Into a Book - with Melanie Herschorn

    Melanie Herschorn, a trailblazer in book marketing and writing, reveals the winding path of her career that took her from celebrity PR to entrepreneurship and beyond. She shares the emotional rollercoaster of launching a successful breastfeeding clothing line on Nordstrom and Amazon, only to face a setback from a hiring misstep. Melanie's story exemplifies the unpredictable nature of career transitions and underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability when navigating professional challenges. Melanie now helps leaders turn their expertise into well-written, strategic, and marketable books. Together, Tony and Melanie unpack the fears that stop most people from writing—imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and worrying that "no one will care." Melanie explains why those fears are normal but misguided, and why a book remains one of the strongest credibility builders in business today. They explore the difference between fleeting content and evergreen authority, the truths and myths of the publishing world, the predatory traps authors should avoid, and what book marketing really looks like after launch. Whether you've been told your whole life that you "should write a book," or you're just now considering how authorship could elevate your brand, this conversation will inspire you to finally get the ideas out of your head and into a book that can change your business—and your confidence—forever. Key highlights: Navigating Career Transitions and Building Expertise Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as an Author Crafting Emotion and Memorable Stories Mastering the Writing Process and Marketing Strategies and Pitfalls in Book Marketing Maximizing Book Marketing and Author Success Connect with Melanie Herschorn: Instagram: @bigimpactbooks Website: yourbigimpactbook.com Book a call with Melanie: meetmelanie.vip Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    58 min
  6. SEP 29

    End of Year Tax Strategy - with Tyler McBroom

    Could you be letting thousands of dollars slip through your fingers by not understanding the latest tax laws? Renowned tax strategy expert Tyler McBroom is on the 365 Driven podcast to uncover essential tax savings strategies every business owner should know. With the year-end looming, Tyler reveals the significance of proactive tax planning and how leveraging the right tax codes can allow you to reinvest in your business rather than handing over your hard-earned money to the IRS. Tyler breaks down recent tax legislation changes, clarifying deductions that benefit both individuals and business owners. Tyler demystifies the often confusing terrain of tax deductions, like those for overtime and tips, and offers fresh insights into payroll taxes and Social Security. Get acquainted with the $6,000 senior deduction for those over 65 and understand how these shifts can enhance your financial planning, whether you're itemizing or taking the standard deduction. Whether you're a new S-corp owner, a seasoned entrepreneur, or someone managing a side hustle, understanding the tax advantages available to you can lead to significant savings. From the nuances of LLCs and maintaining accurate records with tools like QuickBooks, to maximizing deductions through bonus depreciation and home office claims, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Together, Tyler and Tony stress the importance of scheduling proactive meetings with your accountant, especially as the holiday rush draws near, so you can optimize your tax strategy and ensure your financial decisions are timely and effective. Key highlights: Tax Savings Strategies for Business Owners Tax Deductions Simplified for Individuals Tax Advantages for Business Owners Tax Benefits of Bonus Depreciation Maximizing Home Office Tax Deductions Tax Planning Strategies for Business Owners Connect with Tyler McBroom: Instagram: @tylermcbroom Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    1h 2m
  7. SEP 22

    Achieving a 40 Year Dream - with Ron Rubin

    Dreams don't have expiration dates—and Ron Rubin proves it. In this inspiring episode of the 365 Driven Podcast, host Tony Whatley sits down with the former CEO of The Republic of Tea and current owner of River Road Family Vineyards and Winery. Ron reveals how a passion he discovered in his 20s took four decades to come true, and why perseverance, patience, and smart business practices were the keys to making it happen. From scaling The Republic of Tea into a household name to running a debt-free winery in Sonoma, Ron shares powerful lessons on brand building, culture, and staying true to your vision. He opens up about succession planning with his son, the value of mentors and consultants, and why consistency and focus matter more than chasing trends. Whether you're a new entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, Ron's story will remind you that big dreams are worth the wait—and that with discipline, creativity, and heart, you can build businesses that last generations. Key highlights: How Ron Rubin turned a 40-year dream into reality. Why staying debt-free can transform your business. The strategy behind building The Republic of Tea into a specialty brand. Lessons in branding, packaging, and staying true to your company's DNA. How to create a memorable company culture that people love. Smart succession planning and preparing the next generation of leaders. The value of mentors, consultants, and outside perspectives. Why focusing on existing customers can fuel exponential growth. How philanthropy and business can work hand-in-hand to save lives. Encouragement to never give up on your dream—no matter how long it takes. Connect with Ron Rubin: Website: republicoftea.com Get Ron's book: goldinyourbackyard.com Connect with Tony Whatley: Website: 365driven.com Instagram: @365driven Facebook: 365 Driven

    54 min
4.9
out of 5
188 Ratings

About

Unlock Your Next Level. The 365 Driven Podcast helps entrepreneurs build wealth, master mindset, elevate health, and create powerful relationships - the four pillars of a successful life. Hosted by Tony Whatley, best-selling author of Side Hustle Millionaire and executive coach to high performers.

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