“You do have to set your goals. And I found that over time, anybody who has set a goal usually will reach it. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy. But most people do reach those goals.”

Counterterrorism isn’t just the stuff of spy novels—it’s a masterclass in thinking fast, adapting faster, and staying cool when everything’s on fire (sometimes literally). This episode unpacks the high-stakes world of counterterrorism operations and draws surprisingly practical lessons for navigating the chaos of entrepreneurship. If you’ve ever wondered what hostage negotiations and scaling a business have in common, this one’s for you.

Our guest delivers jaw-dropping stories from his time as a State Department counterterrorism agent, including moments of brilliance, catastrophic missteps, and everything in between. He breaks down how making decisions under pressure, owning your failures, and building strong, adaptable teams are critical—whether you’re chasing terrorists or chasing quarterly goals. Spoiler alert: it’s all about playing the long game and knowing when to pivot.

Fred Burton is a former State Department special agent, bestselling author, and all-around expert in counterterrorism and crisis management. His books, Beirut Rules, Ghost, and Chasing Shadows, offer unmatched insights into the complexities of global security and leadership under fire. When he’s not sharing his wisdom, he’s probably plotting the next page-turner that’ll keep you up all night.

Expert action steps:

1. Stay Optimistic

Remember that no matter how challenging the situation, tomorrow is a new day with new opportunities.

2. Set Clear Goals

Establish meaningful objectives and stay committed to them. While the journey may be difficult, persistence often leads to success.

3. Support Others

Offer encouragement and advice to those who may need it. Helping others can create a ripple effect of positivity and growth.

Learn more and connect:

You can find information about Fred’s books, upcoming events, latest news, and contact details on his official website: https://www.officialfredburton.com/.

1. Beirut Rules by Fred Burton

https://a.co/d/cFt9K27

2. Ghost by Fred Burton

https://a.co/d/9odzHGj

3. Chasing Shadows by Fred Burton

https://a.co/d/a38m8e3

4. Area 51 by Annie Jacobsen

https://www.amazon.com/Area-51-Uncensored-Americas-Mystery/dp/0316132942

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

“Podcast listeners and hosts have the highest income and net worth profile in all social media. Psychologically, these folks are action takers, endures, they’re looking to solve their problems and get to the next level.”

Marketing isn’t dead—it’s just evolving, and fast. The smartest entrepreneurs are ditching outdated, ad-heavy tactics and embracing the power of podcast guesting to generate leads, close deals, and build authority. The key? Long-form, unscripted conversations that resonate with audiences tired of being “sold to” and craving authenticity.

In this episode, we explore how podcast guesting has become the secret weapon for business growth, drawing on lessons from recent high-profile success stories (hint: think elections). You’ll learn why traditional marketing’s ROI is sinking and how showing up on podcasts can help you tap into a goldmine of engaged listeners. The guest breaks it down step by step: no fancy tech, no huge ad spend, just real talk that builds trust and drives results.

Expert Action Steps

1. Embrace Podcast Guesting

Begin positioning yourself as a guest expert on relevant podcasts. Identify shows with an audience that aligns with your target market and pitch yourself with a clear message about the value you can provide. Focus on authenticity and storytelling to build trust with listeners.

2. Leverage Long-Form Content

Use podcast appearances as a platform to dive deep into your expertise. Highlight how your services or products solve real problems. Long-form, unscripted conversations allow you to connect authentically with an audience, humanizing your brand and establishing authority in your niche.

3. Optimize the ROI of Your Marketing Efforts

Shift your budget and energy away from costly ads with declining ROI. Instead, invest time in podcast guesting, which requires minimal cost and offers a high return by directly engaging potential clients, investors, or partners in meaningful conversations.

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

“The most important investment you can make is in yourself. It’s not just about dollars—it’s about building a life that reflects your best self.”

Real talk: growth doesn’t come from sipping lattes in a comfy chair. It’s forged in the messiest, hardest moments when life punches you in the gut. This episode dives into the grit required to turn suffering into strength and pain into purpose. It’s not about avoiding hardship; it’s about learning to dance with it—and maybe even throw a few punches back. Packed with stories that’ll make you think, laugh, and maybe cringe, this conversation is your blueprint for thriving when the going gets tough.

Meet Rob Dubois, a guy who knows a thing or two about grit. From surviving a rough childhood to earning his stripes as a Navy SEAL, Rob’s journey is a masterclass in resilience. He doesn’t just talk the talk—he’s walked the hardest paths and come out stronger. In this episode, Rob spills his secrets on how embracing discomfort can transform you into a person you actually want to be. Spoiler alert: it’s not easy, but it’s worth it.

Rob Dubois is a former Navy SEAL, leadership coach, and founder of Impact Actual. He’s spent decades mastering the art of thriving in chaos and now helps others unlock their potential with a mix of wisdom, humor, and a no-nonsense approach to life. If you’re ready to stop running from pain and start growing from it, this episode’s for you.

Expert action steps:

1. Commit Fully to Growth: Make an “all-in” commitment as the first step to overcoming adversity and achieving transformation.

2. Trust the Process: The importance of surrendering to a structured process, even when it feels counterintuitive or challenging, is highlighted as a cornerstone of personal development.

3. Cultivate Self-Discipline: Stopping destructive behaviors like addiction and committing to habits aligned with integrity and health is presented as a critical action for long-term success.

Learn more about Rob at the Impact Actual Website: https://impactactual.com.

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

"You never have to be perfect. But should you move the needle forward 1% every single day moving forward? Yes, it’s good for you and it’s good for the people you love.”

Success in business and entrepreneurship begins with the same foundation as success in life—health and fitness. Without a strong, energetic body and sharp, focused mind, even the best business strategies fall flat. This episode dives into why prioritizing your fitness is the ultimate power move for long-term success.

Fitz Koehler, fitness expert, race announcer, and cancer survivor, shares her unfiltered insights into the transformative power of health. With a no-nonsense approach, she discusses how fitness not only helped her overcome cancer but also fuels her to live vibrantly and inspire others. From battling through gruelling treatment to running the Boston Marathon, Fitz’s story is a testament to resilience and the value of investing in your physical and mental well-being.

Guest Bio:

Fitz Koehler is a globally recognized fitness professional, keynote speaker, and author of the Cancer Comeback series. As the founder of Fitzness, she has spent decades inspiring people to prioritize their health through TV appearances, corporate engagements, and live events. A cancer survivor and advocate for joy, Fitz believes fitness is the ultimate foundation for a fulfilling life.

Expert action steps:

1. Control What You Can:

“In every single situation, control what you can. Know the difference. If you can’t control something, let it go. Let it go. But if you can, your nutrition, your exercise, your work output, whether you show up early, stay late, all of those things, control what you can.”

2. Live on Perspective:

“Traffic jams are better. Red wine on the carpet is better. The flu is better because all of that pales to being a kid with cancer. So perspective, perspective, perspective.”

3. Hunt for Joy:

“I’m a joy addict. I’m very fortunate. I was born with a passion for joy. I will choose to be happy in any situation. However, if that’s not you, you can still become a joy addict. Make it a habit.”

Learn more about Fitz:

• Website: https://www.fitzness.com

• Books by Fitz:

• My Noisy Cancer Comeback: Running at the Mouth, While Running for My Life https://www.fitzness.com/blog/my-noisy-cancer-comeback/

• Your Healthy Cancer Comeback: Sick to Strong https://www.fitzness.com/blog/your-healthy-cancer-comeback/

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

“Never been one for safety. I’ve never been one to play it safe. I’ve always been a bit of a risk taker, which I think you have to be to be an entrepreneur.”

Here’s the secret to landing billionaire clients: it’s not about luck—it’s about having the guts to pick up the phone and the brains to know what to say when they answer. In this episode, we dive into the unapologetically bold strategies that can turn a nobody into the go-to person for the ultra-wealthy. Gina Hendrix, the queen of billionaire matchmaking (yes, that’s a thing), spills the tea on how she went from dialing for dreams to curating connections for the 1%. Spoiler alert: authenticity and grit trump everything else.

Gina Hendrix is a fearless entrepreneur and elite matchmaker whose client list reads like the Forbes 400. With her no-nonsense approach and a knack for turning bold moves into big wins, Gina has mastered the art of connecting high-net-worth individuals with meaningful relationships. Her story is proof that a little nerve and a lot of hustle can lead to some seriously exclusive company.

Expert action steps:

1. Be fearless and take risks. Embrace a bold approach in business and be willing to take calculated risks, as these are essential traits for successful entrepreneurship.

2. Maintain integrity in all your business dealings. Make integrity the cornerstone of your professional conduct, never compromising values for monetary gain.

3. Follow your passion relentlessly. Pursue what excites you with dedication and commitment, even if you start without all the answers.

Learn more about Gina Hendrix:

1. Gina Hendrix’s Website: https://ginahendrix.com

2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matchmakerginahendrix

3. TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@matchmakerginahendrix

4. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoxooljvh9q7dA98-G9M1sg

Books by Gina Hendrix:

• The Great Man Hunt https://a.co/d/csfher9

• Stop Being a Bitch and Get a Boyfriend https://a.co/d/7lXbhNG

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

“If you think creatively or think differently, you can market that. Even in highly competitive industries like water, there’s always room for differentiation.”

Creating a business plan doesn’t have to feel like an endless maze of spreadsheets and jargon. The secret? A streamlined, actionable approach that focuses on what truly matters. In this episode, you’ll discover a straightforward method to craft a winning business plan without losing your sanity—or your weekend.

Brandon White, entrepreneur, author, and business strategist, shares his game-changing “Back of the Napkin Business Plan” framework. With years of experience, including two successful business exits, Brandon reveals how to distill your vision into 11 clear slides. From defining your market to tackling financials, he explains how to create a plan that drives results, sparks investor interest, and helps you stay focused on growth. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you transform your ideas into reality.

Brandon White is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and author of Back of the Napkin to Business Plan in 11 Slides. Having successfully built and sold multiple businesses, Brandon is passionate about simplifying entrepreneurship and empowering others to succeed with practical, no-nonsense strategies.

Expert action steps:

• Be a great listener and practice that skill.

Actively listening helps you learn and connect more effectively in your business and personal interactions.

• Keep moving forward, even when it feels impossible.

Adopt the mindset of taking one more step, learning from each day, and believing in your ability to achieve what feels unattainable.

• Surround yourself with smarter people and embrace discomfort.

Seek out those who challenge you, create opportunities to learn, and intentionally put yourself in difficult situations to grow and make progress.

• Brandon White’s Website: https://brandoncwhite.com/

• Book: Back of the Napkin to… Business Plan in 11 Slides: So easy you can do it on a flight from San Francisco to New York

https://www.amazon.com/Back-Napkin-Business-Plan-Slides/dp/B0CY1XDB63

• Podcast: The Brandon White Show

https://myedgepodcast.com/

Visit eCircleAcade

“The most watched is, it’s 12.3 million views. I get, this last month, every, in 30 days, I get about 2.3 million views, even people that aren’t followers of my stuff.”

Understanding what makes ideas spread isn’t just for cat videos anymore. Viral content, when handled thoughtfully, can cement your place as a trusted voice in your field. In this episode, our guest shows how staying authentic and unapologetic about your values can lead to massive audience engagement. With over 12.3 million views on her most-watched video and 2.3 million monthly interactions across platforms, she’s proof that real connections drive impact—and business opportunities.

Meet Daniele Hage, the “Counterculture Grandma” and a modern thought leader in relationships and authenticity. Known for her transformative workshops and unapologetic stance on cultural shifts, Daniele has translated decades of experience into a message that resonates with millions. With 44 years of marriage and a knack for telling it like it is, she’s turned her knowledge into an online phenomenon.

Expert Action Steps:

1. For men: Focus on creating a sense of safety for the women in your life to foster trust, vulnerability, and stronger connections.

2. For women: Embrace and maintain your feminine energy to build more harmonious and fulfilling relationships with men.

3. For professionals: Balance masculine energy at work with feminine energy at home to ensure successful and romantic partnerships.

Learn more about Daniele on YouTube, Instagram, and her upcoming workshops.

https://www.youtube.com/@danielehage

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

"Podcasting is a platform for collaboration and growth, not a marketplace.”

Authentic podcasting thrives on mutual benefit, not fees. This episode explores why paying to be a guest or charging hosts diminishes the authenticity and value of podcasting. The discussion focuses on building meaningful relationships with hosts, inspiring audiences, and leveraging podcasts as a platform for business growth. The episode challenges pay-to-play models, emphasizing trust and mutual respect as the foundation for podcast success. When podcasting aligns with these principles, it creates opportunities for collaboration, client acquisition, and long-term impact.

Expert Action Steps:

1. Focus on Value: Prioritize inspiring the audience and enhancing the host’s credibility by delivering actionable insights.

2. Build Relationships: Use podcast appearances to create long-term business relationships with hosts, opening doors for collaborations and client opportunities.

3. Stay Authentic: Never pay or charge fees for podcast appearances—maintain integrity by ensuring value and trust drive the exchange.

Visit eCircleAcademy.com and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.