The Start Down Mike Ficara

🇮🇹 The StartDown Podcast welcomes Global Credibility Expert Mitchell Levy. He is a 2x TEDx speaker, an international bestselling author of over 60 books, and an executive coach at Marshall
Goldsmith’s 100 Coaches. After interviewing 500 thought leaders on credibility, he published a 7-country international bestselling book, delivered a powerful TEDx on humanity, created courses, and created the Credibility. Nation membership community to help those live, learn and surround themselves with others on the credibility journey. He's an accomplished Entrepreneur who has created twenty businesses in Silicon Valley including four publishing companies that have published over 750 books. He's provided strategic consulting to hundreds of companies and has been the chairman of a board of a NASDAQ-listed company. Mitchell has been happily married for thirty-three years and prior to covid-19, regularly spent four weeks a year in Europe with family and friends. 💯
 
Join us for a conversation on:
 
·      Entrepreneurship, Outsourcing, and Time Management (0:44): Delve into the challenges entrepreneurs face and how to avoid turning jobs into businesses.
 
·      Finding Passion and Credibility (4:51): Learn how to discover your passion, purpose, and the true essence of your work.
 
·      Credibility and Dubiousness in Marketing (11:09): Explore the concept of credibility in marketing and leadership.
 
·      Personal Branding, Credibility, and Clarity (16:28): Discover the importance of personal branding and clarity in achieving business success.
 
·      Finding the Right Coach for Business Growth (21:59): Explore the challenges of selecting the right coach and the need for a personalized approach.
 
·      Coaching, Credibility, and Book Publishing (26:20): Understand the significance of coaching, credibility, and publishing books in the business world.
 
·      Credibility in the Digital Age (34:14): Learn about building credibility through consistency and clarity in the digital era.
 
·      Teaching Children to Find Their Passion (42:36): Discuss the importance of encouraging children to pursue their passions and make a positive impact.
 Don't miss this episode of The Startdown Podcast! 🎧

 Mitchell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/MitchellLevy/
Mitchell's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CredibilityNation
Mitchell's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mitchell.Levy/


Support the showMore episodes: https://mikeficara.com/start-down-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeficara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeficara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeficara
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOQfxH5L_hNOC-O5hXMxRkg
Get my book for only $0.99 with the promo code PODCAST- https://mike-ficara.myshopify.com/
Host: Mike Ficara- https://mikeficara.com/
Producer: Ryan Griffiths
Content Manager: Charlene Gillego

Introduction (0:00)
   - Mike Ficara introduces Travis Chappell, a social media expert and wealth of knowledge.
  
Travis's Podcasting Journey (0:41)
   - Travis started podcasting out of a love for personal development, despite not being a fan of reading.
  
Podcasting for Self-Improvement (2:51)
   - Podcasting serves as a medium for inputting valuable information into your mind, resulting in positive output to the world.
   
Podcasting for Connection and Business Growth (5:09)
   - Podcasting's unique RSS feed allows ownership and distribution but poses challenges for attribution and analytics.
  
Podcasting as a Networking Tool (8:18)
   - Travis realized that requesting a 3-minute phone call could lead to a podcast interview, offering more value than a brief conversation.
  
Actor Josh Peck's Career Path (14:37)
   - Josh Peck transitioned from a child star to a social creator, using YouTube and podcasting to maintain relevance and hone acting skills.
  
Interviewing Celebrities and Overcoming Obstacles (18:25)
   - Travis reflects on his podcast journey, detailing how persistence led to interviews with high-profile guests like Shaquille O'Neal.
  
Effort and Results in Podcasting (22:13)
   - Travis stresses the importance of effort and preparation in podcasting, calling out those who expect great results with little effort.
  
Finding Fulfillment Through Action (26:24)
   - Travis discusses the need for full investment in endeavors and the challenge of giving advice due to diverse situations.
  
Career Pivot and Personal Fulfillment (29:12)
   - Travis reflects on his past as a door-to-door salesman and how he pivoted towards podcasting.
 
Unconventional Wisdom in Parenting (32:24)
   - Travis shares his experiences as an entrepreneur and parent, highlighting unconventional parenting methods.
  
Productivity, Tech, and Self-Care with Travis Chappell (38:20)
   - Travis recommends Google Drive for file storage and Dropbox for collaboration.
   - His book recommendation is "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius, and he plugs his podcast, "Travis Makes Friends."
 
In this episode, Travis Chappell shares his podcasting journey, insights on podcasting's value, and unconventional wisdom in parenting and personal growth.

Travis website: https://www.facebook.com/traviscchappell
Travis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/traviscchappell 
Support the showMore episodes: https://mikeficara.com/start-down-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeficara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeficara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeficara
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOQfxH5L_hNOC-O5hXMxRkg
Get my book for only $0.99 with the promo code PODCAST- https://mike-ficara.myshopify.com/
Host: Mike Ficara- https://mikeficara.com/
Producer: Ryan Griffiths
Content Manager: Charlene Gillego

JM Ryerson’s Background
JM Ryerson founded and sold 3 businesses and is now helping leadership teams do the same. He is an Author, Leadership & Performance Coach, International Speaker, and host of the Let’s Go Win podcast who has been building companies and leading sales teams for over 20 years. JM is the co-founder and CEO of Let's Go Win whose mission is to increase leadership, enhance culture, and help teams achieve peak performance. JM’s great passions are inspiring people to live their best lives and become open to what life has in store for them. His ultimate goal is to give others the tools that will allow them to transcend their self-limiting beliefs. JM was raised in Montana and lives in Boca Raton, Florida with his wife Lisa and their two amazing boys. 
 
Balancing Coaching and Parenting
Mike Ficara and JM discuss balancing coaching and parenting, referencing coaches like Bill Belichick and Don Shula.
 
Work-Life Balance and Entrepreneurship
Maintaining work-life balance is vital, and JM provides entrepreneurship insights, emphasizing the impact of social media.
 
JM's Entrepreneurial Journey
JM shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting the importance of recognizing when to pivot.
 
Skills and Generational Collaboration
They discuss bridging generational gaps and reverse mentoring.
 
Networking and Podcasting
Networking's value is stressed, with JM noting, "your network is your net worth." Podcasts offer valuable insights.
 
Prioritizing Health
JM and Mike discuss the importance of health and open-mindedness is emphasized.
 
In summary, this episode provides insights on coaching, parenting, entrepreneurship, networking, and health, all delivered through JM's personal journey and experiences.


JM Ryerson's Website: https://letsgowin.com/
JM Ryerson's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/letsgowin365/
JM Ryerson's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letsgowin365
JM Ryerson's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsgowin365
JM Ryerson's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LetsGoWin
JM Ryerson's Twitter: https://twitter.com/letsgowin365
JM Ryerson's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@letsgowin365
Support the showMore episodes: https://mikeficara.com/start-down-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeficara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeficara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeficara
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOQfxH5L_hNOC-O5hXMxRkg
Get my book for only $0.99 with the promo code PODCAST- https://mike-ficara.myshopify.com/
Host: Mike Ficara- https://mikeficara.com/
Producer: Ryan Griffiths
Content Manager: Charlene Gillego

In this episode of The StartDown Podcast, we meet Lydia Stutesman, a high school teacher whose connection with our host, Mike, blossomed at a coffee event where they instantly bonded. Despite recently turning 50, Lydia exudes youthful energy and a perpetual sense of being in her twenties.
 
The conversation explores the delicate balance between pursuing one's true passion and succumbing to societal expectations. Lydia astutely observes that many individuals often find themselves ensnared in the cycle of doing what they believe they should do, rather than following their genuine passions.
 
With Mike's background as a former high school educator, the dialogue offers profound insights into the contemporary challenges of teaching today's youth. The conversation continues with how social media significantly shapes students' perceptions of higher education, perpetuating a culture of relentless ambition.
 
Mike underscores the frequently overlooked facet of personal finance—financial literacy. He emphasizes that the ultimate aim in personal finance is not opulence but financial freedom, symbolized by being "broke" in the sense of being free from debt. This prompts a pertinent question about the relevance of traditional college education. The evolving job landscape often means that many college graduates do not wield their degrees in their ensuing careers.
 
Lydia's career journey serves as a compelling testament to the pursuit of one's passions and the fulfillment of personal aspirations. She also discusses her own podcast, "Live Laugh Lydia," where she celebrates laughter, radio, and profound conversations, emphasizing that podcasting should be driven by passion rather than an insatiable pursuit of fame.
 
Lydia shares her experiences of encountering celebrities both in person and through digital media, delving into the profound connections that can ensue.

Lydia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiampsl/
Lydia's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lydiastutesman/



Support the showMore episodes: https://mikeficara.com/start-down-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeficara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeficara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeficara
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOQfxH5L_hNOC-O5hXMxRkg
Get my book for only $0.99 with the promo code PODCAST- https://mike-ficara.myshopify.com/
Host: Mike Ficara- https://mikeficara.com/
Producer: Ryan Griffiths
Content Manager: Charlene Gillego

Segment 1: The Realities of Podcasting (00:04)
- Larry Roberts and Mike kick off the episode by sharing their insights and experiences within the podcasting industry.
- They emphasize the misconception that podcasting is easy and guarantees instant success, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication.
Segment 2: Overcoming Challenges (05:12)
- The conversation shifts to the challenges new podcasters face, such as finding their authentic voice and overcoming shyness.
- The significance of persistence, even when initial episodes receive limited attention.
Segment 3: Benefits of Podcasting (10:44)
- Larry and Mike discuss the various benefits of starting a podcast, including credibility in their industries and personal brand establishment.
- Larry shares how podcasting opened doors to speaking opportunities and helped him discover his unique brand identity as the "red hat guy."
Segment 4: Authenticity and Branding (15:43)
- The importance of personal branding and authenticity is explored further, focusing on Larry's journey from struggling in a corporate environment to embracing his "red hat" brand.
- Larry's distinct branding not only shaped his identity but also secured him corporate engagements.
Segment 5: Beyond Visual Branding (20:25)
- Emphasizing that personal branding goes beyond visual elements like logos, extending to one's reputation and conduct in both entrepreneurship and corporate settings.
Segment 6: Pivoting to Entrepreneurship (24:57)
- Larry's transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship is detailed.
- Larry's dreams of becoming a UFC fighter were altered by a birth defect, prompting him to shift gears and explore podcasting and comedy.
Segment 7: Journey to Podcasting (29:48)
- Larry's successful corporate career in training and enterprise resource planning systems is discussed.
- He departed from the corporate world to embrace podcasting and comedy, leveraging his unique experiences and insights.
Segment 8: Influence and AI (35:13)
- We delve into podcasting's influence on credibility and share how insightful conversations can yield a "return on influence."
- The conversation extends to the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and competitiveness across various fields.
Segment 9: The Right Tools for Success (40:19)
- The necessity of utilizing the right tools, akin to a fast race car or AI technology, for success is explored.
- Larry introduces his podcast auditing service that aids in growing podcasts and brands.

Larry's Website: https://redhatmedia.io/
Larry's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelarryroberts/
Larry's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelarryroberts


Support the showMore episodes: https://mikeficara.com/start-down-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeficara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeficara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeficara
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOQfxH5L_hNOC-O5hXMxRkg
Get my book for only $0.99 with the promo code PODCAST- https://mike-ficara.myshopify.com/
Host: Mike Ficara- https://mikeficara.com/
Producer: Ryan Griffiths
Content Manager: Charlene Gillego

🇮🇹  Feugetaboutit and join Mike and Mike as they take us through this Italian American journey of dedication to preserving traditions and community
👋 Introducing Michael Carioscia
Michael Carioscia, the owner of Hardcore Italians, an online entertainment and apparel store. This lifestyle brand, born from Italian roots, showcases an array of options, reflecting the essence of Italian culture and community.
👕 From Apparel to Lifestyle Brand
Mike Carioscia delves into the concept behind Hardcore Italians, highlighting its evolution from an online store to a lifestyle brand. He explains how the brand's continuous innovation in design and quality has been at the forefront of its journey. 
🇮🇹 Nostalgic Italian Childhood
Discover Mike's cherished memories of growing up in an Italian family, where his grandparents instilled invaluable life lessons and the appreciation for life's simple pleasures. From the warmth of his grandparents' home to the entrepreneurial spark that led to his online venture, Mike's journey unfolds.
🚀 Entrepreneurship: A Leap of Faith
Mike Carioscia shares his pivotal turning point - the decision to leap into entrepreneurship. Inspired by Gary Vaynerchuk 's wisdom, he transformed a hobby into a thriving business. 
🤌🏼Carrying Forward Family Values
Mike discusses the profound support he received from his grandparents and family. He emphasizes that Hardcore Italians is more than just merchandise; it's about a shared mission and community. The brand's designs and slogans stem from the heart of their family, creating an authentic connection.
📈 Defining Success: Beyond the Surface
The conversation shifts to Mike's perspective on success. He discusses the deeper connection he aims to establish with his audience, focusing on preserving Italian American values. Mike delves into the significance of community engagement and the power of sharing cultural heritage.
🚫 Navigating Doubts and Negativity
Addressing naysayers and negative influences, Mike shares his insights on dealing with skepticism, even from well-meaning loved ones. He echoes Gary Vaynerchuk's sentiment that sometimes, naysayers emerge from a place of care and concern. The conversation extends to other exciting endeavors to benefit his customers, such as their recent Perillo Tours' partnership that offers a chance to win a trip to Italy! 
📚 Book Recommendations
As the episode comes to a close, Mike Carioscia offers book recommendations for the audience: "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
Hardcore Italians’ Website: https://www.hardcoreitalians.com/
Michael Carioscia’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikecarioscia/
Support the showMore episodes: https://mikeficara.com/start-down-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikeficara/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeficara
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeficara
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOQfxH5L_hNOC-O5hXMxRkg
Get my book for only $0.99 with the promo code PODCAST- https://mike-ficara.myshopify.com/
Host: Mike Ficara- https://mikeficara.com/
Producer: Ryan Griffiths
Content Manager: Charlene Gillego