The Mello Millionaire with Tommy Mello

Mello Studios
  • 4.3 (26)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Build. Scale. Inspire. Welcome to The Mello Millionaire podcast, where billionaire entrepreneur Tommy Mello sits down with the sharpest minds in business—from scrappy founders to powerhouse CEOs—to uncover the real strategies behind extraordinary success. Whether you're hustling in the trenches or scaling your next big venture, each episode will push you to think bigger, act bolder, and rewrite what’s possible—for your business, your family, and your future.

  1. 6D AGO

    From Gas Station Cashier to $1,000,000 CEO with Shirin Behzadi

    Shirin Behzadi is a transformational CEO, investor, board member, and bestselling author whose career is defined by resilience, disciplined leadership, and purpose-driven growth. After arriving in the United States alone at 17 and working as a gas station cashier, Shirin built a remarkable business career spanning finance, private equity, and franchising. She rose from CPA and CFO roles to become CEO of Home Franchise Concepts, where she led the company’s transformation into a billion-dollar platform of home services brands, overseeing hundreds of millions in systemwide sales and a successful private equity-backed exit.Today, Shirin serves as a trusted advisor, board director, and keynote speaker, helping leaders turn adversity into strategic advantage. She has raised more than $900 million in private equity, served on corporate and nonprofit boards, and is a passionate advocate for inclusive leadership and women’s empowerment. Her national bestselling memoir, The Unexpected CEO: My Journey from Gas Station Cashier to Billion-Dollar CEO, chronicles her journey from war-torn Iran to the C-suite and offers a powerful framework for leading with vision, empathy, and courage. Known for her ability to combine operational excellence with human-centered leadership, Shirin inspires executives and entrepreneurs to build enduring success — because they can. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast:Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33GLive Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about David: ⟶ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirin-behzadi/ 00:00 The Power of Empathy in Leadership01:24 Shereen's Journey: From Iran to CEO02:43 Overcoming Adversity: The Path to Resilience09:24 The Secret Sauce of Business Success14:03 The Superpower of Adversity19:33 Leadership Lessons: CFO vs. CEO Perspectives24:35 Life After a Life-Threatening Experience30:56 Balancing Life: Priorities Beyond Finance34:27 Navigating Burnout and Finding Growth35:15 The Unexpected CEO: A Roadmap for Success

    39 min

  2. JAN 23

    This CEO saved Jamba Juice from Bankruptcy with James D. White

    James D. White is a transformational leader with more than three decades of experience operating at the highest levels of the consumer products, retail, and restaurant industries. Best known for leading the turnaround and reinvention of Jamba Juice, James guided the company’s evolution from a made-to-order smoothie concept into a globally recognized, health-focused lifestyle brand. Across executive roles at companies including Gillette, Safeway, Nestlé Purina, and Coca-Cola, he developed a deep operating playbook rooted in brand leadership, disciplined execution, and long-term value creation. Beyond the CEO role, James is one of the most sought-after board leaders in modern business, having served on more than 20 public and private boards including Panera Bread, The Honest Company, Simply Good Foods, CAVA, Affirm, and Medallia. In 2020, he co-founded Culture Design Lab to help CEOs and executive teams intentionally design organizations built for performance, resilience, and purpose. He is also the co-author of the national bestseller Culture Design: How to Build a High-Performing, Resilient Organization with Purpose, published by Harvard Business Review Press — a practical framework shaped by decades of real-world leadership and boardroom experience. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-d-white-086ab2153 00:00 The Essence of Leadership 03:06 Transforming Company Culture 05:49 Navigating Challenges at Jamba Juice 08:57 Recruitment and Team Dynamics 12:08 The Importance of Continuous Learning 15:09 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 18:12 The Role of Technology in Leadership 20:50 Building a Leadership Pipeline 23:46 The Impact of AI on Business 27:05 Lessons from Boardroom Experiences 29:58 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Culture

    51 min

  3. JAN 16

    How to Win in Business and Marriage (Without Burning It All Down) with Mike & Kass Lazerow

    Kass and Mike Lazerow are serial entrepreneurs, early-stage investors, and New York Times bestselling authors, best known for their company's $745 million acquisition by Salesforce in 2012. As co-founders of GOLF.com and Buddy Media, they helped shape the early digital and social media landscape. Kass and Mike have founded multiple ventures and backed more than 100 startups, including breakout successes like Scopely and Liquid Death. In total, the companies they’ve built and supported have generated more than $10 billion in realized value. Today, Kass and Mike operate a diverse portfolio spanning venture capital, healthcare, executive recruiting, and sports. Their debut book, Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story About the Entrepreneur’s Messy Path to Success, became an instant bestseller for its candid look at what building real businesses actually demands. Known for their clarity, discipline, and long-term mindset, Kass and Mike are widely respected voices on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the realities behind sustainable success. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions 00:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 02:00 Building Successful Companies 06:02 Investing in the Future 09:50 Navigating Post-Exit Challenges 15:12 The Role of Emotional Intelligence 20:05 Advice for New Entrepreneurs 25:11 The Importance of Health and Longevity 29:52 Final Thoughts and Book Recommendations

    46 min

  4. JAN 9

    Dare To Fly: How Martha McSally Transformed Fear into Fearless Leadership

    Martha McSally is America's first female fighter pilot in combat, former U.S. Senator, decorated combat veteran, and one of the most accomplished leaders to ever serve in both the military and public office. Over a 26-year career in the United States Air Force, she broke barriers as one of the first women to fly combat missions in a fighter jet and later went on to command at the squadron level, leading in environments where precision, accountability, and trust were non-negotiable. She flew hundreds of hours in close-air-support missions across the Middle East and Afghanistan, earning multiple military honors for her service. After retiring from the Air Force as a Colonel, Martha transitioned into public service, representing Arizona in Congress before serving in the United States Senate. Across both arenas, she became known for her disciplined leadership style, willingness to take responsibility under pressure, and commitment to mission over ego. Today, she is a sought-after voice on leadership, resilience, and service — bringing hard-earned perspective from the battlefield, the halls of government, and life beyond titles. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Martha here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_McSally 00:00 Breaking Barriers: Martha McSally's Journey to Fighter Pilot 06:13 Leadership Lessons: Building Unbreakable Leaders 11:51 The Power of Self-Discovery and Authenticity 17:59 Reflections on Life, Legacy, and Abundance 23:47 Navigating Politics: A Call to Duty 30:11 Final Thoughts: Embracing Inner Work and Authenticity

    35 min

  5. JAN 2

    Brokering Billions in Real Estate with Leo Pareja

    Leo Pareja is the visionary Chief Executive Officer of eXp Realty, one of the fastest-growing and most disruptive real estate brokerages in the world. With more than two decades of real estate experience, Leo leads the company’s global strategy with a relentless focus on technology, agent empowerment, and industry transformation.  Leo began his real estate career at just 19 years old, quickly rising through the ranks to become the No. 1 agent in the world at Keller Williams by the age of 28 and selling nearly 4,000 homes during a 15-year production career. Beyond business, Leo is a recognized industry leader and thought-partner, known for his voice on real estate evolution and change leadership. He also co-founded the Pareja Family Foundation, which provides scholarships and opportunities for women and underrepresented individuals to enter the tech workforce. He is also the host of Pareja Unfiltered, a podcast where he explores what it takes to lead, grow, and win in business.  Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Leo here: https://www.instagram.com/leopareja?igsh=b2l6eGFudm01NG1y 00:00 The Journey to Real Estate Success 03:06 Transforming Real Estate with Technology 06:12 The Future of AI in Real Estate 09:04 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Work 11:58 The Human Experience in a Tech-Driven World 15:06 Finding Purpose Beyond Success 18:11 The Importance of Family and Relationships 21:06 Lessons from Business Exits 24:11 The Value of Experience Over Material Success 27:00 Influences and Inspirations in Business 30:04 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

    42 min

  6. 12/26/2025

    AI Will Change Your Life Faster Than You Think, According to Former OpenAI Exec Zack Kass

    Zack Kass is a leading voice at the intersection of artificial intelligence, business, and humanity. As the former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI, he helped bring some of the world’s most powerful AI technologies out of the lab and into the hands of millions — shaping how organizations and society engage with AI at scale. Today, Zack is a global AI advisor, keynote speaker, and strategist, helping executives, governments, and institutions navigate what may be the most disruptive technological shift in human history. Known for his rare ability to make complex AI concepts practical, human, and actionable, Zack doesn’t traffic in hype — he focuses on what actually matters: how AI will change work, leadership, creativity, and power. His message is clear and urgent: AI isn’t just a tool. It’s a new operating system for society — and those who learn to work with it will define the future. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions 00:00 The Dawn of Unmetered Intelligence 10:04 The Future of Energy and AI 20:05 Societal Shifts and Human Purpose 30:09 Navigating the Home Services Industry 40:03 Reflections on AI and Human Interaction

    51 min

  7. 12/19/2025

    This $6B Industry Will Change Everything: Jim Rabeau Breaks Down Quantum Technology

    Dr. Jim Rabeau is a leading quantum physicist and one of Australia’s foremost voices in quantum sensing and emerging quantum technologies. With a career spanning fundamental physics, applied research, and industry translation, Jim works at the frontier of technologies that are set to define the coming decades. His research focuses on harnessing quantum effects at the nanoscale—transforming deep physics into practical tools with applications in sensing, imaging, materials science, and beyond. As quantum technology moves from theory to world-changing capability, Jim has been at the center of shaping what that future looks like. He is known for building bridges between academia, industry, and government, helping ensure quantum breakthroughs translate into real-world impact. From redefining how we measure the physical world to enabling entirely new classes of technology, quantum represents a foundational shift—and Jim is one of the scientists helping turn that shift into reality. Whether advising decision-makers or explaining why quantum matters now, he brings rare clarity to a field that will reshape industries, economies, and how we understand the limits of what technology can do. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: The Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G About Jim Rabeau and Deteqt: https://deteqt.tech/ 00:00 Exploring Quantum Sensing and Its Potential 10:35 Navigating Without GPS: The Future of Magnetic Field Sensing 17:47 The Impact of Quantum Technology on Other Industries 24:08 Bridging the Gap: Emotional Intelligence in Quantum Tech 30:07 Reflections on Success and Personal Growth

    33 min

  8. 12/12/2025

    The Sky Isn’t the Limit—It’s the Market. Dominating the Private Jet Industry with Steve Varsano

    Steve Varsano is the world’s most recognizable private jet broker and the founder of The Jet Business — a luxury aviation firm that has redefined how billion-dollar aircraft are bought and sold. A former Wall Street trader turned aviation power broker, Steve has facilitated billions of dollars in private jet transactions for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, royalty, and global elites. Known for his unapologetic honesty, sharp instincts, and larger-than-life presence, he’s become a trusted voice in an industry where trust is everything. From pioneering transparent jet sales to building the most iconic showroom in private aviation, Steve doesn’t just sell jets — he changes how power, speed, and access move around the world. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form:https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Steve: https://www.instagram.com/stevevarsano/?hl=en 00:00 The Journey to Private Aviation Success 09:59 The Role of Education and Client Empowerment 20:06 Work-Life Balance in a Demanding Industry 30:10 The Future of Aviation and Technology 40:00 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    44 min
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4.3
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

Build. Scale. Inspire. Welcome to The Mello Millionaire podcast, where billionaire entrepreneur Tommy Mello sits down with the sharpest minds in business—from scrappy founders to powerhouse CEOs—to uncover the real strategies behind extraordinary success. Whether you're hustling in the trenches or scaling your next big venture, each episode will push you to think bigger, act bolder, and rewrite what’s possible—for your business, your family, and your future.

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