Untrapped: Building a Life Beyond Business

Rory Miller

You built a successful coaching business to create freedom, but somewhere along the way, success became your prison. You're making great money but working insane hours. You have clients but no life. You created a business that was supposed to serve you, but now you serve it completely. The alarm goes off at 5 AM. You check emails before your feet hit the floor. Your calendar owns your soul. Your phone buzzes with "urgent" requests that aren't really urgent. You haven't taken a real vacation in years because "the business can't run without you." You tell yourself this is temporary. That once you hit the next revenue milestone, you'll slow down. But the goalposts keep moving, and the trap gets tighter. Here's what nobody tells you: The problem isn't your revenue. It's your business model. You don't need to work harder. You don't need more clients. You don't need another marketing strategy. You need to get untrapped. This isn't about working less and making less. It's about working smarter and living more. It's about building systems that serve you instead of enslaving you. It's about remembering that business is supposed to enhance your life, not consume it. Freedom isn't the reward for success. Freedom IS success. Welcome to Untrapped - where we build lives beyond business.

  1. 12/29/2025 ·  Video

    Confidence Beyond Challenges with Scott Ballard

    From Dyslexia to Million Dollar Success: Scott Ballard's Entrepreneurial Journey Join us in this episode as we sit down with Scott Ballard, the founder of Confidence Coach LLC.  Growing up with dyslexia, Scott didn't just overcome his learning challenges—he transformed them into a foundation for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey, creating multiple businesses and even a thriving leadership development company.  Learn about Scott's unique approach, his top industry performances, and the impactful work he's done around the world, from corporate consulting to creating the largest job incubator in Africa.  Discover powerful insights on embracing limitations, finding true identity, and the integral role of faith in personal and professional success. Connect with Scott: Website: https://www.confidencecoach.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-ballard-a3250422/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottconfidence Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Scott Ballard's Journey 01:13 Scott Ballard's Early Entrepreneurial Ventures 02:29 The Birth of Confidence Coach LLC 04:46 Transformative Coaching Stories 05:55 Impactful Work in Africa 11:39 The Philosophy Behind Scott's Coaching 16:51 Client Success Stories and Long-Term Relationships 22:04 Scott's Unique Approach and Background 24:13 The Value of Life Experience 25:10 Embracing AI in Business 27:00 The Human Element in AI 31:57 Faith and Purpose in Work 36:02 Future Plans and Goals 42:33 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    44 min
  2. 12/22/2025 ·  Video

    Mastering the Art of Communication with Laurie Brown

    When we think about communication, often it's just about talking.  But Laurie Brown, a global communication strategist, unveils how communication can transform careers and businesses.  Laurie shares her journey from acting in training films to becoming a communication expert working with Fortune 500 companies and small businesses globally.  She delves into her 'Chameleon Communication' approach, her transition during COVID-19, and the impact of AI on communication.  Laurie also discusses the evolving customer service landscape, the significance of effective listening, and the challenges of modern-day communication.  Whether you're a business leader, a technical expert, or a parent, this episode is full of actionable insights on enhancing your communication skills.  Tune in to discover how Laurie helps professionals adapt and excel in any situation. Connect with Laurie: Website: https://lauriebrown.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriebrowncommunicationexpert/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lauriebrowncommunications/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Laurie Brown: Communication Expert 00:59 Laurie's Acting Background 02:07 Transition to Communication Training 05:31 The Evolution of Customer Service 09:27 The Human Element in Communication 16:27 Using AI to Enhance Communication 19:12 Adapting to the Digital Age 22:41 Interactive Training Experience 23:49 Incorporating AI in Training 25:30 Measuring Success and Future Goals 26:28 The Five Cs of Communication 27:16 Compassionate Communication at Scale 30:42 Parenting and Communication 36:31 Changes in Communication Post-COVID 42:59 Conclusion and Contact Information

    45 min
  3. 12/19/2025 ·  Video

    Leadership and Emotional Intelligence: Lessons from Bill Benjamin

    Thriving Under Pressure: Bill Benjamin's Journey from Tech VP to Leadership Expert Join us in this episode as we welcome Bill Benjamin, partner at the Institute for Health and Human Potential and co-author of the New York Times bestseller, 'Performing Under Pressure.'  Bill shares insights from his 25+ years helping organizations like NASA, the US Marines, and Goldman Sachs transform pressure into a competitive advantage.  Discover Bill's transition from a mathematics and computer science background to focusing on emotional intelligence and leadership.  Learn how his neuroscience-based approach has helped companies like Intel and Coca-Cola improve team performance and reduce turnover.  Bill also discusses the importance of both connection and courage in high-performing cultures and the concept of navigating 'the last 8%' of challenging conversations.  Tune in for actionable strategies to handle high-stakes moments and drive success both in the workplace and at home. Connect with Bill: Website: https://ihhp.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-benjamin-12b671/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihhpglobal/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Bill Benjamin and His Work 01:14 Bill's Personal Journey and Career Shift 02:20 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence 04:09 High Performing Cultures: Connection and Courage 05:40 The Last 8%: Tackling Difficult Conversations 07:46 Applying Emotional Intelligence Beyond Work 10:06 Case Study: Blue Cross of Idaho 11:59 Sustaining Business Growth and Relevance 13:11 AI in Healthcare: A Case Study with Mercy Health 16:34 The Human Resistance to Change 16:55 Automating Tasks for Efficiency 17:51 The Last 8% Moments 19:59 Using AI in Different Departments 23:06 Preparing for a New Book Launch 26:55 Challenges and Strategies for 2026 30:05 Connecting and Learning More

    31 min
  4. 12/17/2025 ·  Video

    Transforming Financial Chaos with Tuesday P. Brooks

    Transforming Financial Chaos to Strategic Success with Tuesday Brooks | Untrapped Join us in this episode of Untrapped as we delve into the inspiring journey of Tuesday Brooks, a US Army veteran, financial consultant, and founder of AJOY Management.  From her military service to advanced degrees at Columbia and NYU, and becoming a Goldman Sachs business advisor, Tuesday has truly lived the transformation she teaches.  Learn about her 'pretty financials' approach to bookkeeping that empowers women-led businesses.  Discover how Tuesday balances marketing, business development, and personal time while navigating the impacts of AI on her firm.  Whether you're a small business owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Connect with Tuesday: Website: https://www.ajoymanagement.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuesdaybrooks/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajoyworldwide/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/   Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Tuesday Brooks: Transforming Financial Chaos into Success 01:01 Introduction to AJOY Management 01:35 Tuesday's Role in AJOY Management 02:13 Marketing and Business Development Strategies 04:46 Challenges in Marketing and Client Acquisition 10:16 The Impact of AI on Business Operations 15:22 The Rise of New Tools 15:56 Exploring Claude: A New LLM Tool 16:37 Year-End Reflections and Future Goals 18:03 Measuring Business Success 21:08 Challenges and Frustrations 22:14 The Importance of Financial Management 26:03 Handling New Clients 27:45 Where to Find Us

    29 min
  5. 12/16/2025 ·  Video

    Legacy of Leadership: From Adversity to Influence with Tim Johnson

    The Legendary Voice of College Wrestling Shares His Lifelong Journey Join us in this compelling episode with Tim Johnson, a legendary American wrestling commentator and a lifelong leader of champions.  For 45 years, Tim has nurtured athletes and business influencers across the Midwest.  From overcoming a catastrophic lawnmower accident at age six to becoming the longest-tenured broadcaster in college wrestling history, Tim's story is inspiring.  He has coached state champions, worked with USA Wrestling at the 1984 Olympics, and become a fixture on Iowa Public Television, ESPN, and the Big Ten Network, calling nearly 500 collegiate meets.  As a member of multiple halls of fame and the former leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Tim now focuses on helping people flourish in the 'third third' of their lives.  Tune in to hear his wisdom on leadership, coaching, and the power of encouragement. Connect with Tim: Website: https://tjkeepon.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-johnson-b50820a/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tim.johnson.595184/  Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Tim Johnson: A Wrestling Legend 00:17 Tim's Early Life and Wrestling Journey 01:21 Coaching Philosophy and Leadership 02:16 The Importance of Flourishing in Later Life 05:02 Balancing Life and Leadership 08:17 The Power of Free Leading 13:01 Tim's Personal Story of Overcoming Adversity 16:58 The Influence of Coaches and Lifelong Coaching 21:54 Evaluating a Good Coach 22:09 Journey Through Coaching 22:51 Coaching the Coaches 23:23 Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) 25:40 Defining Coachability 29:11 Current Focus and Activities 31:40 Encouragement and Mentorship 39:42 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    41 min
  6. 12/15/2025 ·  Video

    Navigating the Dating Landscape with Alexandra Freeman

    Building Lifelong Connections: The Self-Discovery Approach to Matchmaking with Alexandra Freeman Join us in this episode of 'Untrapped' as we dive deep into the art of matchmaking with Alexandra Freeman, the co-founder of Introductions Inc. Alexandra shares her revolutionary 'self-discovery before dating' methodology which focuses on personal growth and introspection as a foundation for building meaningful relationships.  Discover how her boutique matchmaking service for high-end professionals in the US, Canada, and internationally goes beyond traditional matchmaking to help clients truly understand themselves.  Alexandra also touches on the benefits of building social circles through hobbies and in-person events, the impact of technology and AI on the dating landscape, and provides valuable insights on guiding loved ones into successful relationships.  Tune in for a fascinating conversation filled with practical advice and industry insights. Connect with Alexandra: Website: https://www.introductionsinc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matchmakeralexandra/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntroductionsIncMatchmakers/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Genuine Connections in Dating 00:09 Meet Alexandra Freeman: Relationship Architect 01:12 Understanding High-End Matchmaking 02:27 The Importance of Preparedness in Relationships 04:44 The Role of Social Circles in Modern Dating 06:44 Exploring Alternatives to Online Dating 08:21 Coaching and Self-Discovery in Matchmaking 12:35 The Evolution of Matchmaking and Online Dating 15:38 The Impact of AI on Matchmaking 22:59 International Matchmaking and Cultural Insights 27:45 Advice for Parents and Future Goals 31:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    33 min
  7. 12/11/2025 ·  Video

    Business Growth with a Mission: Insights from Rusty Fulling

    Rusty Fulling: From Health Crisis to Building a Nation-Wide Fractional CFO Firm Join us in this episode as we sit down with Rusty Fulling, the founder of Fulling Management & Accounting, a mission-driven fractional CFO firm serving clients across 25 states.  Rusty shares his inspiring journey from facing a health crisis to creating a remote team of 16 strategic partners for businesses nationwide.  Discover his unique 'Grace Business Philosophy' and how it has shaped his approach to client relationships and company culture.  Rusty also delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the accounting industry, the importance of succession planning, and his ongoing personal health struggles.  This episode is packed with valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders alike. Connect with Rusty: Website: https://www.fullingmgmt.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rustyfulling/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullingmgmt/ Connect with Rusty: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Turning Personal Challenges into Business Success 00:55 Introducing Rusty Fulling and His Mission-Driven Firm 01:33 The Role of a Fractional CFO in Business Growth 03:00 Rusty's Entrepreneurial Journey and Health Crisis 04:43 The Importance of Purpose in Entrepreneurship 08:57 Building a Remote Team and Company Culture 12:35 Handling Health Issues and Business Continuity 14:57 Overcoming Business Challenges 15:44 The Role of Faith in Business 17:09 Adapting to Technological Changes 22:28 Future Goals and Vision Casting 27:42 Leadership Lessons and Team Building 29:33 Conclusion and Contact Information

    30 min
  8. 12/10/2025 ·  Video

    Strategic Constraint Removal: A Conversation with Jim Schleckser

    Unveiling Strategic Leadership with 'Great CEOs Are Lazy' Author Jim Schleckser Join us on this episode of Untrapped as we welcome Jim Schleckser, renowned CEO and author of 'Great CEOs Are Lazy.'  With over 30 years of global business leadership experience, Jim shares his insights on strategic constraint removal, the Five Hats Leadership Model, and the importance of balance in business.  Discover how Jim helps entrepreneurs and CEOs scale their businesses by focusing on key constraints and his experience in coaching top executives.  From the impact of AI on business strategy to personal productivity tips, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for business leaders at any stage. Connect with Jim: Website: https://theceoproject.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimschleckser/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommwhere2020/ Connect with Rory: Website: https://vybemedia.io  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therorymiller/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therorymiller/ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Jim Schleckser 01:03 Jim's Approach to Business Growth 02:28 The Theory of Constraints 04:59 Real-World Applications of the Theory 09:14 Jim's Journey from Engineering to Business 12:43 Balancing Work and Life 17:12 The CEO Project and Jim's Role 18:55 Identifying the Bottleneck in Client Acquisition 19:07 The Value of Former CEOs as Advisors 20:24 Challenges in Accessing Humble CEOs 20:59 The Importance of Peer Groups for CEOs 21:35 Marketing Strategies and Client Acquisition 23:59 The Role of AI in Business and Coaching 29:21 AI's Impact on Client Businesses 34:38 Future Plans for The CEO Project 37:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

    38 min

About

You built a successful coaching business to create freedom, but somewhere along the way, success became your prison. You're making great money but working insane hours. You have clients but no life. You created a business that was supposed to serve you, but now you serve it completely. The alarm goes off at 5 AM. You check emails before your feet hit the floor. Your calendar owns your soul. Your phone buzzes with "urgent" requests that aren't really urgent. You haven't taken a real vacation in years because "the business can't run without you." You tell yourself this is temporary. That once you hit the next revenue milestone, you'll slow down. But the goalposts keep moving, and the trap gets tighter. Here's what nobody tells you: The problem isn't your revenue. It's your business model. You don't need to work harder. You don't need more clients. You don't need another marketing strategy. You need to get untrapped. This isn't about working less and making less. It's about working smarter and living more. It's about building systems that serve you instead of enslaving you. It's about remembering that business is supposed to enhance your life, not consume it. Freedom isn't the reward for success. Freedom IS success. Welcome to Untrapped - where we build lives beyond business.