Notable Men

Notable Men

Notable Men features conversations with founders, executives, creators, athletes, and industry leaders discussing the experiences, challenges, and perspectives that shaped who they are today. From leadership and business to mindset, reinvention, success, and personal growth, the show offers candid discussions with men making an impact across industries and culture.

  1. 23h ago

    Pass the Baton: Mentorship, Opportunity, and Building the Next Generation | Nolan Rollins

    How much of your future can change because one person sees potential in you before you can see it yourself? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with Nolan Rollins, author, attorney, executive, and nationally recognized civic leader, to discuss mentorship, sponsorship, leadership, institution building, opportunity, history, and preparing the next generation for a rapidly changing future. Nolan's career has taken him across law, business, philanthropy, government, and community leadership, including serving as CEO of Urban League affiliates in New Orleans and Los Angeles. But when Nolan looks back at his journey, he sees something else: a relay race. At pivotal moments, mentors and sponsors recognized his potential, expanded his imagination, and handed him the baton to his next opportunity. Today, Nolan believes receiving that investment comes with a responsibility to do the same for someone else. nolan-laura In this episode, you'll learn: Why Nolan views his career as a relay raceHow mentors and sponsors play different roles in someone's developmentWhy wisdom can help us recognize potential before there is proofHow exposure to new people and environments can expand someone's imaginationWhat effective mentorship requires from the mentorWhy leaders should develop people's strengths instead of forcing them into the wrong rolesThe difference between inspirational leadership and institution buildingWhat Nolan learned while helping rebuild New Orleans after Hurricane KatrinaHow Incremental Equality uses history to examine the impact of decisions over generationsWhy institutions must continue evolving as the world around them changesHow someone can be highly ambitious while remaining selflessWhy the quality of our questions will matter in the age of AIWhy critical thinking may be one of the next generation's most important capabilitiesWhat it means to intentionally pass opportunity forward Whether you're building your career, mentoring someone else, leading an organization, or thinking about the kind of impact you want to leave behind, Nolan's story challenges us to think beyond individual achievement. The people who invest in us can change our trajectory, and eventually, we have the opportunity to do the same for someone else. Connect with Nolan Rollins Website: nolanrollins.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nolanvrollins  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nolanvrollins TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nolan_rollins

  2. Sep 18

    Build Worlds Around Dreams, Not Dreams Around Worlds | Micah Johnson

    What could you accomplish if you stopped building your dreams around what already seems possible? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with former Major League Baseball player turned acclaimed artist, New York Times bestselling author, and creative visionary Micah Johnson for a conversation about reinvention, imagination, representation, failure, and learning to create your own path. Micah grew up believing he would play Major League Baseball—and he did. But after discovering a passion for art during his playing career, he eventually found himself entering an entirely different world without formal art training or a clear understanding of how the industry worked. Rather than viewing that as a disadvantage, Micah learned to create his own definition of what was possible. His creative journey eventually led to Aku, his beloved character and story world. The idea began after a young boy asked Micah whether astronauts could be Black. Inspired by the question, Micah began creating images of African American children in space helmets as symbols of limitless possibility. Those works eventually evolved into Aku and a broader mission to inspire young people to dream beyond what they believe is possible. Today, Aku has appeared on the cover of TIME Magazine and anchors Micah’s debut middle-grade book, Aku: Journey to Ibra, a New York Times bestseller. In this episode, Micah shares: How Micah transitioned from professional baseball into a career as an artistWhy not knowing how difficult something is can sometimes become an advantageThe story behind Aku and the question that changed Micah’s creative missionWhy representation helps children see new possibilities for themselvesWhat “build worlds around dreams, not dreams around worlds” really meansHow to pursue something even when you don’t have the traditional qualificationsWhy Micah believes more people should intentionally do hard thingsHow to approach the fear of failure when pursuing something you loveWhy imagination needs to be protected in the age of AI and social mediaHow Micah’s relationship with work and success has evolvedWhy consistency can outperform relentless workWhat Micah hopes the next generation learns from his journeyMicah’s philosophy challenges us to stop defining our potential by what everyone else is doing. Instead, he encourages people to build their own reality around what they want to accomplish, even before they know exactly how they’re going to get there. Whether you’re changing careers, building something creative, recovering from failure, or pursuing a dream that feels far outside the conventional path, this conversation is a reminder that the world around you doesn’t have to determine the size of your ambition. Connect with Micah Johnson Website: https://micahdreams.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/micah_johnson3/ Learn More About Aku: Journey to Ibra: https://aku.world/books

  3. Sep 8

    The Resilience Mindset: Gratitude, Growth, and the Courage to Change | Terry Healey

    What if resilience isn't something you're born with, but something you can learn to build? Award-winning author, keynote speaker, business strategist, and storyteller Terry Healey joins host Laura Ezzell on the Notable Men Podcast for a conversation about resilience, gratitude, emotional courage, leadership, and learning to grow through change. At 21, Terry was diagnosed with a life-threatening cancer that led to more than 30 surgeries and a permanent facial difference. His experience ultimately taught him that resilience isn't simply about returning to who you were before adversity. It's about learning, adapting, accepting change, and continuing to grow. Terry shares his REBAR framework: Reflect, Build, Act, Renew, a practical approach to navigating adversity and strengthening resilience. He also explores the role gratitude and hope play during difficult periods, why emotional intelligence matters in leadership, and how learning to share his vulnerabilities transformed his understanding of courage. In this episode, Terry shares: Why resilience can be learned and strengthenedHow gratitude can change your perspective during adversityWhat Terry's REBAR framework teaches about navigating changeWhy reflection is an important resilience-building habitHow hope helps us cope and adaptWhy emotional intelligence matters in leadershipHow mistakes and failures contribute to growthWhy disruption can create unexpected opportunitiesWhat self-acceptance has to do with resilienceWhy vulnerability is a form of emotional courageHow adversity can deepen empathyWhy embracing change can help you grow through itHow difficult experiences can lead to greater purposeWhat to practice when you're struggling with your attitude Terry's journey is a reminder that resilience doesn't require becoming the person you were before adversity. Sometimes growth means accepting who you've become, recognizing what you've gained, and developing the courage to move forward. Connect with Terry Healey: Website: http://www.terryhealey.com/ Terry’s Books: https://terryhealey.com/books/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=terry+healey&i=stripbooks&crid=28O2L23XE75QU&sprefix=%2Cstripbooks%2C176&ref=nb_sb_ss_recent_2_0_recent LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terryhealey/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@terryhealeyus X: https://x.com/terryhealeyus Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terryhealeyus

  4. Aug 28

    You're Only Done If You Think You're Done | Darius Ross

    What if the hardest chapters of your life don't have to determine how your story ends? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with serial entrepreneur, author, investor, mentor, and transformation strategist Darius Ross for a candid conversation about trauma, resilience, accountability, failure, and what it actually takes to transform your life. Darius's journey has included homelessness after a devastating fire in Chicago, incarceration, bankruptcy, financial setbacks, and other difficult seasons. He ultimately transformed those experiences into a career spanning entrepreneurship, business acquisitions, investing, writing, coaching, and mentoring. Today, Darius is the author of six books, including his latest, Mastering the TPS Blueprint: Transforming Trauma Into Triumph, and uses his experiences to help others confront adversity, build resilience, recognize opportunity, and create stronger personal and financial futures. In this episode, Darius shares: Why real transformation begins with being honest with yourselfWhat Darius learned when he realized no one was coming to rescue himWhy discomfort is often unavoidable when overcoming adversityThe difference between motivation and true transformationWhy accountability matters when you decide to change your lifeWhat failure taught Darius about entrepreneurship and investingHow journaling can help you understand your reactions to adversityWhy fear of public failure prevents people from tryingWhy Darius measures success by impact rather than moneyHow to keep moving forward when your past makes you believe you're finished Darius believes that no matter what you've been through, your next decision still matters. You may be one moment, one idea, one opportunity, or one person away from where you want to be. Whether you're rebuilding after failure, navigating a major life transition, or simply struggling to believe that change is still possible, this conversation offers a direct reminder that your past doesn't have to have the final word. Connect with Darius Ross 🌐 Website: https://dariuswrites.com/book/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariusaross

  5. Aug 17

    Slow the Clock: The Science of Living Longer and Better | Chris Mirabile

    Can you actually slow the aging process—and what does science say about living longer? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with Chris Mirabile, founder and CEO of NOVOS and one of the leading voices in longevity science. After surviving a brain tumor as a teenager, Chris dedicated his life to understanding aging and disease prevention. Today, he works alongside some of the world's leading scientists to help make cutting-edge longevity research accessible to everyone. In this episode, Chris shares: How Chris's brain tumor inspired his life's missionWhy healthspan matters more than lifespanThe difference between biological and chronological ageHow lifestyle choices influence the aging processWhat AI will mean for the future of personalized medicineThe biggest myths surrounding longevity advice onlineHow Chris built a biotech company before longevity became mainstreamThe role of community, purpose, and sleep in long-term healthWhy scientific evidence should always come before health trendsPractical habits you can start today to improve your future health Whether you're interested in healthy aging, entrepreneurship, biotechnology, or simply living your healthiest life, this conversation offers valuable insights grounded in today's latest longevity research. Connect with Chris Website: https://novoslabs.com Blog: https://slowmyage.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismirabile/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slowmyage/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@slowmyage YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@slowmyage X: https://x.com/SlowMyAge

  6. Aug 7

    The Long Game: Building Companies, Teams, and Trust That Last | Duane Mancini

    What separates founders who build successful companies from those who build organizations that truly last? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with entrepreneur, MedTech strategist, investor, and Project MedTech founder Duane Mancini to discuss why trust, humility, and long-term thinking are the real foundations of sustainable leadership. With more than 15 years of experience helping medical technology startups navigate product development, regulatory strategy, clinical trials, commercialization, and fundraising, Duane has advised countless founders through the complex journey of bringing life-changing innovations to market. As Founder and CEO of Project MedTech and Managing Partner at PM Ventures, he helps entrepreneurs think beyond today's decisions to build companies positioned for long-term success. In this conversation, Duane shares: ▪ Why trust is every leader's greatest asset ▪ How humility strengthens leadership and company culture ▪ Why transparency builds stronger investor relationships ▪ The biggest mistakes MedTech founders make early ▪ Why building the right team matters more than having the best idea ▪ How culture is built—and how quickly it can be lost ▪ What endurance sports taught Duane about entrepreneurship ▪ Why there are no shortcuts to meaningful success ▪ How AI is improving healthcare while preserving the need for human judgment ▪ Why innovation in healthcare requires patience ▪ The importance of admitting when you're wrong ▪ How empathy helps leaders build organizations people want to be part of CONNECT WITH DUANE MANCINI LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanemancini/

  7. Jul 31

    Trust Before Technology: Leading Healthcare Innovation with Integrity | William Soliman

    How do you accelerate innovation without compromising ethics? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with healthcare executive, entrepreneur, investor, and pharmaceutical industry leader William Soliman, PhD, BCMAS, to explore the future of healthcare, artificial intelligence, and the responsibility leaders have to build trust while advancing innovation. William is the Founder and CEO of the Accreditation Council for Medical Affairs (ACMA), the organization responsible for accrediting, certifying, and training pharmaceutical professionals around the world. He is also the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of White Manna Capital Partners, a healthcare-focused investment firm specializing in biotechnology, obesity medicine, women's health, and emerging healthcare innovation. Drawing from decades of leadership experience, William shares how one defining ethical moment early in his career shaped his mission to improve industry standards and ensure patients remain at the center of healthcare innovation. In this conversation, William shares: ▪ Why ethics should always come before profits ▪ The leadership lessons William learned from the Vioxx controversy ▪ How artificial intelligence is transforming drug discovery ▪ Why AI will never replace human judgment in healthcare ▪ The future of obesity medicine and GLP-1 therapies ▪ Why women's health represents one of healthcare's biggest opportunities ▪ What investors look for beyond industry hype ▪ How healthcare companies build trust with physicians and patients ▪ Why transparency creates long-term success ▪ The importance of specialized expertise and personal branding ▪ What separates great healthcare leaders from everyone else ▪ Why leaving an industry better than you found it is the ultimate measure of success CONNECT WITH WILLIAM SOLIMAN YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@willsoliman Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/will_soliman/ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@willsoliman LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/drwilliamsoliman/

  8. Jul 19

    Build It Backwards: Why Great Leaders Start with the End in Mind | Daniel Feiman

    What if the best way to build your future is to start with the end in mind? In this episode of the Notable Men Podcast, host Laura Ezzell sits down with leadership consultant, author, and Build It Backwards founder Daniel Feiman to explore why the most successful organizations don't simply react to change—they intentionally design the future they want and work backwards to achieve it. Daniel Feiman, MBA, CMC®, is the Founder and Managing Director of Build It Backwards, an internationally recognized consulting and training firm specializing in strategy, finance, leadership development, and succession planning. Over the past three decades, he has consulted organizations in 31 countries, taught leadership and business strategy at the university level, and worked with companies including Apple, Dell, Hilton Hotels, Credit Suisse, Mattel, and many others. He is also the author of four books and creator of the Build It Backwards framework, helping organizations develop stronger leaders and build businesses that thrive for generations. In this conversation, Daniel shares: Why great leaders start with the future they want to createThe philosophy behind the Build It Backwards frameworkHow proper planning creates better leadership and stronger organizationsThe difference between leadership, management, succession, and transition planningWhy hiring for culture and long-term potential matters more than hiring for technical skills aloneThe leadership lessons Daniel learned from entrepreneurship and business failureHow to make confident decisions when information is incompleteWhy mentoring future leaders is one of a leader's greatest responsibilitiesHow organizations can develop leadership pipelines instead of constantly replacing talentWhy character matters more than titlesThe importance of creating value that exceeds client expectationsHow leaders can build organizations that continue succeeding long after they're gone CONNECT WITH DANIEL FEIMAN Linkedin: www.linkedin.com Websites:https://www.builditbackwards.com https://www.imcusa.org/ Books:  THE Book on...BUSINESS From A to Z: The 260 Most Important Answers You Need to Know (The Build It Backwards series) The Book on...Succession Planning Systems: The 30 Secrets To Leadership Development The Book On Improving Productivity By Fair Means Or Foul (The Build it Backwards Series 1)

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About

Notable Men features conversations with founders, executives, creators, athletes, and industry leaders discussing the experiences, challenges, and perspectives that shaped who they are today. From leadership and business to mindset, reinvention, success, and personal growth, the show offers candid discussions with men making an impact across industries and culture.

Information

  • Creator
    Notable Men
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Notable Men
  • Show Website
    Notable Men