The Launch Button

Hugh Zaretsky

Welcome to "The Launch Button" podcast, your ultimate destination for unlocking the secrets of success from thriving entrepreneurs and real estate investors. I'm your host, Hugh Zaretsky, a bestselling author, International speaker, seasoned real estate investor, and serial entrepreneur, and I'm thrilled to take you on an exhilarating journey of inspiration and empowerment. Are you feeling stuck in a job that drains your passion, yearning for a life of purpose and fulfillment? Are you ready to take your business and real estate investing to new heights? Look no further! On "The Launch Button," we dive deep into captivating stories and invaluable lessons from those who found the courage to hit the launch button, seizing control of their destinies and pursuing their true passions. Discover how successful entrepreneurs and investors navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and ignite their dreams, propelling themselves to extraordinary achievements. Our conversations will empower you to break free from the ordinary and embrace the boundless possibilities life has to offer. Don't miss your chance to accelerate your journey to success and transform your life. Head over to www.thelaunchbuttonpodcast.com , where you'll find a wealth of valuable resources, expert training, and exclusive insights from our esteemed guests. The launch button is within your reach – all you have to do is push it! Thank you for joining us on this transformative adventure of discovery and inspiration. Unlock your true potential, ignite your dreams, and embark on this incredible journey with us. Visit www.thelaunchbuttonpodcast.com , and together, we'll chart a course to the life you've always desired. See you there!

  1. NOV 25

    When Everything Breaks… Launch Anyway

    Episode Summary: In this raw and revealing episode of The Launch Button Podcast, Hugh takes you behind the curtain of what it really looks like to launch something new—especially when everything that can go wrong… does go wrong. From a laptop hard-drive failure two hours before kickoff, to a temporary replacement computer that crawled slower than dial-up, to a full website malware attack that shut down email attachments, Hugh shares the chaotic, unfiltered truth of running their first-ever AI Challenge. Despite tech meltdowns, frozen screens, corrupted audio, and hacked links, the team stayed relentless. The message? Entrepreneurship isn’t about perfection—it’s about commitment, adaptability, and solving one problem at a time. Hugh breaks down how he delivered an entire multi-day AI challenge using nothing but a phone, grit, backup systems, a supportive team, and a whole lot of patience. Through every failure came a lesson: people don’t follow perfect—they follow real. And even in the middle of tech disasters, attendees aged 18 to 80 learned AI skills, built systems, improved storytelling, and took the actions that moved their businesses forward. The impact remained strong, lives were changed, and confidence in AI grew—even when the tech running the challenge was falling apart. This episode is a powerful reminder that if you wait for perfect, you’ll never launch. If you move forward—especially when everything breaks—you create momentum, growth, and transformation for yourself and the people you serve. Link in bio for the full episode. About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next level. Hugh has been a certified real estate continuing education instructor in 4 different states. His latest book "The Launch Button" was an Amazon best seller in 4 categories including all of real estate. He recently spoke at the Humanity Summit in Portugal on the global issue of "Sustainable tourism (including STRs) and how to work with local communities". His dedication to mentoring and coaching aspiring entrepreneurs makes Hugh a highly sought-after speaker. Get ready to be inspired and gain invaluable insights from Hugh's wealth of experience.  http://www.HughZaretsky.com http://www.thelaunchbuttonpodcast.com - Subscribe and get updates, Swag, etc.   Purchase Hugh’s book, The Launch Button here: http://bit.ly/launchbuttonbook Private Community: http://www.eframily.com - Want

    19 min
  2. NOV 20

    Be like Jackie

    Episode Summary: In this deep-dive episode of The Launch Button Podcast, @hughzwealth explores what true leadership really means by drawing lessons from some of the greatest figures in sports history. From Jackie Robinson’s resilience in breaking the color barrier, to Hank Aaron’s quiet strength, Willie Mays’ charisma, and the captain-level discipline of Derek Jeter and Ken Griffey Jr.—each athlete reveals a different path to leading with purpose. Hugh also breaks down why being a superstar, like Michael Jordan, doesn’t always translate into being an effective coach or executive, and why leaders like Steve Kerr thrive because they learned success through struggle and repetition. This episode challenges you to identify your own leadership style, understand your strengths, and learn how to guide your team through adversity with clarity, simplicity, and intent. Watch the full episode — link in bio. About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next level. Hugh has been a certified real estate continuing education instructor in 4 different states. His latest book "The Launch Button" was an Amazon best seller in 4 categories including all of real estate. He recently spoke at the Humanity Summit in Portugal on the global issue of "Sustainable tourism (including STRs) and how to work with local communities". His dedication to mentoring and coaching aspiring entrepreneurs makes Hugh a highly sought-after speaker. Get ready to be inspired and gain invaluable insights from Hugh's wealth of experience.  http://www.HughZaretsky.com http://www.thelaunchbuttonpodcast.com - Subscribe and get updates, Swag, etc.   Purchase Hugh’s book, The Launch Button here: http://bit.ly/launchbuttonbook Private Community: http://www.eframily.com - Want to work, train, or get coached by Hugh? IG - @hughzwealth FB - @hughzWealth  Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section...

    14 min
  3. NOV 11

    from Motherhood to Mrs. Washington

    Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode of The Launch Button Podcast, host @hughzwealth sits down with @janekbeeson, a remarkable woman from Spokane, Washington—entrepreneur, pageant queen, philanthropist, and mental health advocate. Jane opens up about her life as a triplet, her unexpected journey into pageantry, and the profound transformation that came after nearly losing her son to suicide. Through courage and resilience, Jane turned her pain into purpose—winning Mrs. Washington, competing at Mrs. America, walking the runway at New York Fashion Week, and becoming Vice President of Light A Lamp, a suicide prevention nonprofit helping students across Washington. Jane also shares how mentorship, community, and saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities—like joining @ChrisWhiteman’s gym—completely reshaped her life. This episode dives deep into authenticity, purpose, and how personal growth can come from the most challenging moments. 🎙️ Watch the full episode — link in bio. About the Guest  My name is Jane and I am far from plain!  I am a former Mrs. Washington American 2023.  Gracing the stage at Mrs. America was a dream come true! Currently, I am running for USOA’s Mrs. Washington in December with hopes to take the stage once again.  23 years ago I married my husband, Sean.  We met while attending Eastern Washington University. Sean was on the golf team and I was a cheerleader.  I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Dental Hygiene and currently work full-time.  Sean and I have two incredible teenagers that keep us busy.  Our oldest child is Autistic and makes us laugh with his unique humor.  Our next chapter will be sending our youngest off to college. We look forward to more golf and travel.   My passion currently is focused on raising money for my Non-Profit called “light-A-Lamp.   We mainly supports children who have lost hope by providing life saving resources.   I am proud to say we are in 25 schools in Eastern Washington and counting! To learn more go to: lightalamp.org About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next level. Hugh has been a certified real estate continuing education instructor in 4 different states. His latest book "The Launch Button" was an Amazon best seller in 4 categories including all of real estate. He recently spoke at the Humanity Summit in Portugal on the global issue of "Sustainable tourism (including STRs) and how to...

    29 min
  4. NOV 4

    AI Challenge

    In this powerful episode of The Launch Button Podcast, host @hughzwealth  dives deep into how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the way entrepreneurs and business owners manage their time, scale their companies, and reclaim their freedom. Ever feel like your business is running you instead of the other way around? Hugh breaks down how AI can help you step back from repetitive $10-an-hour tasks and focus on what truly matters—growing your business, spending time with family, traveling, and pursuing passion projects. Drawing from his own journey—from a 7th-grade computer prodigy to Director of Technology at Getty Images—Hugh reveals how AI can bridge the gap between small businesses and massive corporations. He explains how entrepreneurs can harness the power of automation, build integrated systems, and streamline their operations without needing a tech background. Listeners will learn how to: ✅ Identify and simplify your tech stack (CRM, funnels, automations). ✅ Integrate multiple AI systems to eliminate manual tasks. ✅ Build workflows and content strategies that run themselves. ✅ Set up AI “employees” to manage scheduling, communication, and social media. ✅ Save 10–15 hours a week and scale faster with less stress. Hugh also introduces the Free 7-Day AI Challenge, running from November 12–19, where participants will discover step-by-step how to implement AI into their business. From CRM automation to AI voice agents and dashboards that track ROI, this challenge is designed to help entrepreneurs achieve time and financial freedom before the new year. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights, real success stories (like Amanda’s transformation from police detective to TikTok creator), and inspiring lessons on how to use AI to multiply your impact—not replace it. Start your journey to automate, simplify, and scale your business today. 🎧 Watch the full episode – link in bio. 👉 Sign up for the challenge: yourAILaunch.com About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next level. Hugh has been a certified real estate continuing education instructor in 4 different states. His latest book "The Launch Button" was an Amazon best seller in 4 categories including all of real estate. He recently spoke at the Humanity Summit in Portugal on the global issue of "Sustainable tourism (including STRs) and how to work with local communities". His dedication to mentoring and coaching aspiring entrepreneurs makes Hugh a highly sought-after speaker. Get ready to be inspired and gain invaluable insights from Hugh's wealth of experience.  a href="http://www.hughzaretsky.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    21 min
  5. OCT 28

    The Streets of NYC to Sex in the City

    Episode Title: The Streets of NYC to Sex in the City Episode Summary: In this powerful episode of The Launch Button, host @hughzwealth sits down with author and speaker @heatherkristinwriter to uncover her remarkable journey from the streets of New York City to the world of Sex in the City. Heather opens up about growing up in a tough environment, navigating survival, and transforming her pain into purpose. From her early days in NYC to becoming an award-winning author and advocate for women’s empowerment, Heather’s story is one of courage, resilience, and rebirth. Together, they explore the challenges of identity, self-worth, and transformation—proving that no matter where you start, your story can become your strength. Heather shares how her book, Sex in the City, became more than just a narrative—it became a symbol of healing, empowerment, and reclaiming one’s voice. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to rise above adversity and create meaningful change. Tune in to hear how Heather turned her past into power and how her journey continues to inspire others worldwide. 🎧 Watch the full episode on YouTube: [Link in bio] About the Guest  Heather Kristin has written for The Washington Post, Glamour, The Independent, Salon, Slate, and has been interviewed on Latino NPR and by Oprah. She's worked many jobs, including Park Avenue nanny, extra on films, subway busker, cocktail waitress, but she's most proud of being a Girls Write Now mentor, mommy, and violinist. She's currently writing a memoir, "The Stand-In." My IG is: @heatherkristinwriter  https://www.instagram.com/heatherkristinwriter/?hl=en ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Viral HuffPost essay: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sex-and-the-city-and-just-like-that-kristin-davis-stand-in-me-too_n_6818a607e4b064ed9fd4df55Oprah interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Brj5GPvnO5cTikTok clip: https://www.tiktok.com/@huffpost/video/7106628950444510507https://www.instagram.com/heatherkristinwriter/?hl=en About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next...

    45 min
  6. OCT 21

    From psychology to Astrology

    Episode Summary:  From psychology to Astrology In this inspiring episode of The Launch Button Podcast, host @hughzwealth welcomes special guest @aria.healing.wellness for a deep dive into one of the most powerful success habits every entrepreneur can develop — the End-of-Year Sprint. Hugh challenges listeners to reject the common mindset of slowing down in the final months and instead use this season as a springboard for massive growth in 2026. Through stories, practical steps, and real-world examples, Hugh explains how clarity, communication, and momentum separate those who simply coast into the new year from those who dominate it. He introduces the idea of treating October through December as the most important months of your business life — the time to define your one big goal, eliminate bottlenecks, and create the systems that will sustain your success. Listeners are guided through his five-step Launch Button Framework: finding your passion, creating clarity and goals, surrounding yourself with experts, establishing KPIs and consistent daily actions (CDAs), and finally, pushing the launch button to take bold action. Hugh also emphasizes the power of using AI tools to automate repetitive tasks, freeing entrepreneurs to focus on growth and creativity. As the conversation unfolds, @aria.healing.wellness adds valuable insights about mindset, energy, and maintaining balance — reminding entrepreneurs that sustainable success requires harmony between drive and well-being. Together, they paint a vivid picture of what it means to finish strong: working with intention, discipline, and heart. Whether you’re a business owner, creator, or leader, this episode will inspire you to end your year with purpose and begin 2026 with unstoppable confidence. Don’t wait for January to start building momentum — create it now. 🎧 Watch the full episode — link in bio. About the Guest  Aria Sherzoy is a Holistic Health Coach and Somatic Practitioner who helps people reconnect with their bodies and transform from the inside out. With a background in psychology and certifications in integrative health and somatic healing, Aria blends eastern and western medicine, energy healing, and embodiment practices to guide others through emotional release, nervous system regulation, and alignment of mind, body, and soul. Through her practice, Aria Healing & Wellness, she offers 1:1 healing and coaching sessions to clients around the world, helping them heal deeply, step into their power, and live in harmony with their true selves. My socials: Ig: aria.healing.wellness Fb: aria Sherzoy TikTok: ariasherzoy X: Aria Sherzoy  About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR,...

    35 min
  7. OCT 14

    Your Code to Visibility

    Episode Summary: Your Code to Visibility In this inspiring episode of The Launch Button Podcast, host @hughzwealth sits down with the incredible @margaritakurtova.brand — an entrepreneur, artist, and personal branding expert who turned her journey from Russia to the U.S. into a story of fearless reinvention and unstoppable momentum. Starting from scratch in New York, Margarita built a thriving network and launched her first solo art exhibition in Manhattan in less than a year. She opens up about how courage, consistency, and the power of “being in the room” transformed her career and connections. Together, Hugh and Margarita dive deep into topics like overcoming fear, building genuine relationships through service, and mastering the law of reciprocity in business. Margarita also shares insights from her “Radiant Method” — a three-part system blending clarity, visual radiance, and structure to help entrepreneurs and artists craft authentic personal brands that actually sell. She reveals how storytelling, strategy, and sincerity come together to create impact both online and in person. This episode is a masterclass for anyone looking to elevate their personal brand, expand their network, and say “yes” to new opportunities. Whether you’re an artist, business owner, or creative visionary, Margarita’s journey proves that showing up with purpose can open doors you never imagined. 🎙️ Tune in to learn how to build a brand that radiates authenticity, connect with people who align with your vision, and turn your passion into profit. 👉 Watch the full episode — link in bio! About the Guest  Margarita Kurtova is a multidisciplinary artist, brand strategist, and founder of Cosmic Creations LLC, branding and marketing studio working with international clients across luxury, tech, and creative industries. She is also the creator of the Radiant Method™, a mentorship program that helps visionaries and founders build authentic personal brands through clarity, aesthetics, and strategy. Margarita has collaborated with brands such as Chanel, Porsche, Bulgari, and Dior, and has been featured in exhibitions and creative projects in the U.S. and Europe. IG: https://www.instagram.com/margaritakurtova.brand FB:  https://www.facebook.com/ritakurt5 LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritakurt X:  https://x.com/rita_kurt About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for

    28 min
  8. OCT 7

    Sprint, Scale, Soar

    🎙 Episode Summary – Sprint, Scale, Soar | The Launch Podcast with @hughzwealth In this powerful episode of The Launch Podcast, @hughzwealth breaks down what it really takes to finish the year with focus, momentum, and purpose. As many entrepreneurs begin to coast through the holidays, Hugh delivers a wake-up call — reminding us that how you finish this year determines how you start the next. He compares the final quarter of the year to the last 100 meters of a 400m sprint — the moment when champions dig deep, push through pain, and accelerate while everyone else slows down. This is your opportunity to separate from the crowd, stay disciplined, and build unstoppable momentum heading into 2026. Hugh walks listeners through the Launch Button Framework, a five-step process to move from idea to orbit. You’ll learn how to: Find your passion and define clear goals. Identify your one big thing to complete before year’s end. Break your goals into measurable monthly milestones. Establish KPIs and CDAs (Consistent Daily Actions) to stay on track. Surround yourself with experts and accountability partners. He also dives into the importance of automation, delegation, and AI integration — showing how removing yourself as the bottleneck can free up time for what truly drives growth. The episode highlights the mindset shift needed to finish strong: instead of asking, “How much time do I have left this year?”, start asking, “How much impact can I still create?” Listeners are challenged to join the End-of-Year Sprint by defining their goals, creating a 60-day plan, tracking their daily progress, and sharing their journey publicly. Whether you’re closing a final deal, launching a new offer, or implementing automation, this sprint is about building habits and systems that will power your success in 2026. Hugh also gives a sneak peek at exciting upcoming projects — including the Beyond Launch Book and the Ignite Your CDAs Productivity Journal, tools designed to help entrepreneurs master momentum and consistency. As always, Hugh practices what he preaches, sharing real examples from his own sprint to prove that success is about commitment, not timing. 🚀 It’s time to push past hesitation, ignite momentum, and stay in orbit long after liftoff. 🎧 Listen to the full episode — link in bio. 🧭 Want to discover your launch potential? Take the Launch Quiz now at www.hughzaretsky.com  and find out what’s holding you back — and how to reach your next level. About the Host:  Hugh excels at helping entrepreneurs and executives who are on the path to manifesting their dreams - whether they are on the first steps of a launch or a giant leap forward as they level up their business. His podcast is dedicated to helping trustworthy, integral, and heart-centered entrepreneurs connect to the people who need them most. Hugh Zaretsky, was an IT executive until his wake-up call came on 9/11. Realizing how short life can be, Hugh transitioned his career to become a real estate investor, international speaker, best-selling author, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering individuals. Hugh started investing in the precursor to Short-Term Rentals back in 2005. His expertise in cash-flowing properties (STR, SFH, and multi-family) has allowed him to successfully train over 12,500 real estate investors and entrepreneurs to complete profitable real estate transactions, launch businesses, or take them to the next level. Hugh has been a certified real estate continuing education instructor in 4 different states. His latest book "The Launch Button" was an Amazon best seller in 4 categories including all of real estate. He recently spoke at...

    13 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to "The Launch Button" podcast, your ultimate destination for unlocking the secrets of success from thriving entrepreneurs and real estate investors. I'm your host, Hugh Zaretsky, a bestselling author, International speaker, seasoned real estate investor, and serial entrepreneur, and I'm thrilled to take you on an exhilarating journey of inspiration and empowerment. Are you feeling stuck in a job that drains your passion, yearning for a life of purpose and fulfillment? Are you ready to take your business and real estate investing to new heights? Look no further! On "The Launch Button," we dive deep into captivating stories and invaluable lessons from those who found the courage to hit the launch button, seizing control of their destinies and pursuing their true passions. Discover how successful entrepreneurs and investors navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and ignite their dreams, propelling themselves to extraordinary achievements. Our conversations will empower you to break free from the ordinary and embrace the boundless possibilities life has to offer. Don't miss your chance to accelerate your journey to success and transform your life. Head over to www.thelaunchbuttonpodcast.com , where you'll find a wealth of valuable resources, expert training, and exclusive insights from our esteemed guests. The launch button is within your reach – all you have to do is push it! Thank you for joining us on this transformative adventure of discovery and inspiration. Unlock your true potential, ignite your dreams, and embark on this incredible journey with us. Visit www.thelaunchbuttonpodcast.com , and together, we'll chart a course to the life you've always desired. See you there!