Shows
The Empire Builders Podcast#204: Levis – Did NOT Invent DenimLevi help Jacob patent the famous rivet on the Levis jeans that make the pockets so durable. That is how Levis starts to build the empire.
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Simple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written a...2025-05-0720 min
The Real YouEP 39: Ashley Carlson on Unleashing Your Business Potential Through Effective DelegationAshley Carlson transforms how entrepreneurs run their businesses by providing expert executive support and strategic planning through her company, Elevate Virtual Business Solutions. She helps owners focus on their zone of genius while her team handles operations.• Founded Elevate as a solo virtual assistant eight years ago after leaving her travel agent career• Grew the company to 13 employees offering executive assistant services, bookkeeping, and project-based work• Uses a Director of Operations certification to provide strategic planning for clients' businesses• Helps clients delegate effectively to save not just time but also brain space• Wo...2025-04-1743 minThe Empire Builders Podcast#201: Cabela’s – From Furniture to Fishing Flies1000 fishing flies and an ad that failed turned a furniture store family into a sporting goods store empire. Way to go Cabela’s.
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for o...2025-04-1623 minThe Empire Builders Podcast#200: Happy Meal – 35 Billion ServedBecause of the Happy Meal McDonalds is the world’s largest toy distributor. Larger than Hasbro or Mattel. This is an Empire!
Dave Young:
Welcome to The Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is… Well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for our clients...2025-04-0919 minThe Real YouEP 38: Finding Your Path After a Life-Altering Event: How Jennifer Chapman Transformed Crisis into Coaching🎙️ Podcast Episode Highlights with Jennifer ChapmanTurning Crisis into Purpose: After a life-threatening stroke at 34, Jennifer transformed her recovery into a calling, leaving corporate sales to become a resilience and mindset coach.The Power of Small Commitments: Inspired by her Pilates journey, “Just Commit” became both her brand and philosophy—helping clients focus on one small, intentional step at a time.Victim vs. Warrior Mentality: Jennifer challenges clients to shift from blame to ownership, transforming obstacles into growth by choosing...2025-04-031h 01The Real YouEP 37: The Art of Integration: Kristin Miller on Balancing Career, Life, and Personal Growth🎙️ Podcast Episode Highlights with Kristin MillerNavigating Mid-Career Crossroads: Kristin shares how her journey through theater, sales, and sports management led to burnout, and ultimately, a career pivot into coaching.From Burnout to Breakthrough: After a decade with the Milwaukee Brewers and experiencing anxiety attacks, Kristin realized she had never paused to ask: "Is this what I really want?" That moment sparked a transformation.Coaching Through Language & Reflection: Kristin explains how writing exercises and examining thought patterns help clients uncover limiting belie...2025-03-271h 02The Empire Builders Podcast#197: James Bond – Shaken Not StirredA feeling of authenticity is what really brought 007 to life and the Broccoli family brought it to the screen.
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom-and-pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner Dave Young.
Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us. But we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for our clients, so here’s on...2025-03-1922 minThe Real YouEP 36: Copy That Doesn't Suck: The Real Deal on Writing for Impact with Stacy EleczkoJoin Stacy Eleczko and me for a conversation about:1️⃣ Your Words Might Be Repelling Clients (Without You Realizing It)The hidden psychology behind business messaging and why "sounding good" isn’t enough.Many business owners struggle not because of bad offers but because they fail to communicate their unique value effectively.2️⃣ The Difference Between Generic Copy & Strategic MessagingWhy most entrepreneurs overlook buyer psychology when writing their website copy.How messaging that speaks to audience needs, desires, and decision-making processes leads to conversions.3️⃣ Building a Business Through Authenticity, Not Influence2025-03-131h 02The Real YouEP 35: The Mindset Shift: How Beliefs Shape Our Potential with Tarik AliJoin Tarik Ali and me for a conversation on:1️⃣ Mindset Shaping Success – Success isn’t just about talent, it’s about self-perception, resilience, and overcoming internal barriers.2️⃣ The Power of Rest & Reflection – Stepping back from constant hustle is essential for growth, clarity, and emotional well-being.3️⃣ Shifting Beliefs to Unlock Potential – Our beliefs shape our reality, and challenging them can open new career and personal growth opportunities.4️⃣ Navigating Mental Health in Leadership – The post-pandemic shift has made vulnerability and m...2025-03-0654 minThe Real YouEP 34: No More Excuses: The Path to Wellness with Melissa PikeIn this episode of The Real You Podcast, Melissa Pike, an ICF-certified health and life coach, shares her journey from HR to coaching, highlighting the challenges of workplace wellness and the power of authentic storytelling in building meaningful connections.She discusses key strategies for mental well-being, including mindfulness, gratitude journaling, goal-setting, and the importance of movement, while also reflecting on her transformative journey to sobriety and how it has improved her life.Listeners will gain valuable insights on managing stress, fostering work-life balance, and embracing personal growth to...2025-02-2756 minThe Real YouEP 33: Authentic Networking: Ryan Snellings on Leveraging LinkedIn & Embracing Career Growth- From corporate leader to career coach, Ryan Snellings shares how he overcame his fear of posting online and built a thriving LinkedIn presence through authenticity and connection.- We explore the unexpected lessons from customer service, the work-life balance contrast between Europe and the U.S., and the hilarious reality of learning new cultures.- With humor and honesty, Ryan reveals how mentoring, storytelling, and content creation can fuel both career growth and personal transformation.Ryan's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com...2025-02-2053 minThe Empire Builders Podcast#193: Jacuzzi – Propellers to PropellersThe Jacuzzi Seven were obsessed with flight and engineered better propellers. What is the difference between propellers of air or water???
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us. But we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for our clients...2025-02-1918 minThe Real YouEP 32: Embrace Accountability: Moriah Bacus on Transforming Ambitions & Building CommunityWhat if embracing accountability could transform your ambitions into reality? Join me, David Young, alongside Moriah Bacus, an expert accountability coach and project manager, as we explore how her unique methods empower coaches and consultants to turn lofty visions into tangible outcomes. Moriah's story is one of transformation, from event management to helping others thrive in a post-COVID world. Learn about her commitment to a vegan and alcohol-free lifestyle, and how these choices have fueled her productivity and ability to foster meaningful connections in the city of Toronto.We also navigate the complex jo...2025-02-131h 04The Empire Builders Podcast#192: Polaroid – Instant Idea, Instant Pic, Instant EmpireWhat happens when you are in the polarization film business and your daughter asks why she can’t see the picture right away? You invent Polaroid.
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us. But we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and...2025-02-1224 minThe Real YouEP 31: Choose Love Over Fear: Acacia Thornton's Path to Personal Growth & AdventureEver wondered what it's like to transition from a high-stakes legal career to a life of spiritual coaching and global adventuring? Join me as I talk to Acacia Thornton, a former Fortune 500 attorney who traded the courtroom for the vibrant energy of Las Vegas and a fulfilling life as a digital nomad. Acacia shares her journey from legal expert to award-winning speaker and coach, revealing how she balances the city's dynamic atmosphere with her own tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip. Discover how Las Vegas inspires her professional gro...2025-02-061h 03The Real YouEP 30: Harnessing Neurodiversity: Kaitlin Johnson on Embracing ADHD and Self-ExpressionWhat if ADHD isn't a limitation, but a unique way of experiencing the world?Join me for a conversation with Kaitlin Johnson, an ADHD coach and former HR professional, as she shares her personal journey from being diagnosed with ADHD at age 15 to learning how to harness its strengths.Kaitlin challenges the misconceptions surrounding ADHD, debunking myths of laziness and unproductivity, and unveils personalized strategies for managing ADHD effectively through self-acceptance and adaptation, particularly with medication. Discover how embracing ADHD can lead to a fulfilling life, rather than viewing it as a life...2025-01-3054 minThe Real YouEP 29: Navigating Change: Lisa Klein on Balancing Personal Well-Being and Business SuccessLisa Klein, a business coach and process strategist, joins me on this episode to share her journey from finance to becoming a health coach for women and business coach for entrepreneurs. Her pivotal career shift, sparked during maternity leave and driven by personal challenges, including her mother's battle with breast cancer, led her to discover a passion for health coaching. Our conversation with Lisa reveals the balance of personal well-being and professional success, something she passionately advocates for by empowering entrepreneurs to build sustainable strategies that resonate with their personal values....2025-01-2443 minThe Real YouEP 28: Embracing Awareness: Daniela Sulek on Letting Go and Embracing What's HappeningAfter a career in finance, Daniela Sulek found herself at a crossroads, grappling with burnout during her third pregnancy. This pivotal experience led her to a transformative path of coaching and self-discovery. On today's episode of the Real You Podcast, Daniela and I share a laugh about our shared journey from the logical world of financial planning to the more intuitive realm of coaching. Her story is a powerful reminder of how life-altering events can guide us toward embracing acceptance and peace.We explore the profound shift from living in fear and control...2025-01-1643 minThe Real YouEP 27: Pursuing Passion: Jamie Dykstra's Journey from Finance to Ghostwriting SuccessWhat if leaving the stability of the corporate world could lead you to your true passion? Join us as we explore Jamie Dykstra's transition from a finance and project management career to becoming a successful nonfiction book ghostwriter. In a candid discussion, Jamie shares how a supportive friend and a business coach helped her uncover a love for writing she never expected. From blogging and copywriting to finding her niche in ghostwriting, she discovered the profound joy of helping others bring their stories to life.Jamie also opens up about the...2025-01-0941 minThe Real YouEP 22: Creating Experiences through Storytelling with Renee Lynn FrojoThis episode discusses the journey of Renee Lynn Frojo, exploring her evolution from aspiring marine biologist to accomplished writer and storyteller. We discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of connection, and insights from her exotic in-person retreats centered on personal and professional growth.• Exploring the journey into writing and early inspirations • Discussing the disillusionment with politics and Washington, D.C. • The impact of travel on creativity and adaptability • Importance of community in personal and professional spaces • Overview of retreats and the transformative experiences they offer • Emphasizing the value of storytelling...2025-01-0240 minThe Real YouEP26: The Reversal: Colleen Kranz interviews the host, David YoungIn this episode, Colleen Kranz interviews David Young about his journey as a solopreneur and podcast host. They discuss the power of storytelling, the challenges of leaving a 9 to 5 job, and practical strategies for content creation on LinkedIn. • David reflects on his personal journey and pivotal moments that sparked change • The importance of storytelling in building a personal brand • Overcoming self-doubt and taking risks in entrepreneurship • Creating a consistent content strategy for audience growth • The emotional impact of pursuing one's passion and authenticity • Insights into client challenges and the signific...2024-12-2743 minThe Real YouEP 25: Embracing New Beginnings: Rey Lambie on Transitioning from Athlete to Entrepreneur🎙️ What if the end of your athletic career could spark an entrepreneurial journey?In this episode, I chat with Rey Lambie, a former athlete turned entrepreneur who transformed life-altering concussions into a new path.💡 What you’ll learn from Rey’s story:How discipline and grit from sports fuel success in business.Why stepping outside the sports industry doesn’t mean leaving your passion behind.The power of the athlete’s mindset in navigating entrepreneurship.🧠 Topics we cover:Moving beyond the hustle culture to prioritize health and wellness.Simple...2024-12-1947 minThe Real YouEP 24: Transformative Wellness with Robyn Engelson, featuring her new book, Exhausted to EnergizedRobyn Engelson's journey from the high-paced marketing world to becoming a wellness coach is inspiring. Her transformative story includes overcoming severe health challenges and reshaping her life through nutrition, exercise, and mindset. As my guest on this episode of the Real You Podcast, Robyn shares her path to regaining control over her health and how this led her to empower others, particularly corporate executives and entrepreneurs, with personalized wellness strategies.A significant part of Robyn's journey involves healing from childhood trauma, a process she embarked on with the help of a life coach...2024-12-1239 minThe Real YouEP 23: Reimagining Success: Embrace Change and Tackle Burnout with Nicole GreeneIn this episode of The Real You Podcast, I sit down with Nicole Greene. She's a personal and business growth consultant with a fascinating career journey.We explore:How Nicole uses LinkedIn for personal and professional growth.Her thoughtful decision-making process, blending analysis with trusted advice.The power of storytelling to build genuine professional connections.Nicole shares candid stories and practical tips for:Supporting founders during tough times.Transforming challenges into growth opportunities.Aligning work with personal values, even if it means making b...2024-12-051h 19The Real YouEP 21: A solo episode by me, your host, David Young - You'll laugh at least 1xAfter a meandering 20-year career through industries as varied as pharmaceutical sales and data analysis, I've found my true calling in content creation. This episode uncovers my journey from childhood dreams of being an NBA player to expressing myself fully through podcasting. As I recount my transition from corporate life to the joys of storytelling and audience engagement, you'll hear how my experiences led me to a rewarding career that fuels my passion.This solo episode is packed with personal reflections on The Real You Podcast's evolution and my plans to introduce a se...2024-11-1428 minThe Empire Builders Podcast#179: Banana Ball – Frictionless BaseballThe Banana’s asked one fundamental question to revive a defunct minor ball team. What do fans hate about going to a game?
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick in business partner Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced for o...2024-11-1321 minThe Real YouEP 20: Navigating Transformation: Lauren Fischetti on Career Coaching, Self-Care, and Embracing ChangeLauren Fischetti shares her transformative journey with us, from her academic pursuits in English at Duke and Columbia to her unexpected path in career coaching. She navigates the complexities of a high-achiever mentality while balancing work, motherhood, and personal growth. The conversation dives into the art of self-reflection and the challenges of maintaining self-care practices amid life's unpredictable turns.Lauren's experiences with journaling, meditation, and the pursuit of clarity offer invaluable insights into personal development and resilience.We explore Lauren's significant life changes, including her cross-country move...2024-11-071h 00The Empire Builders Podcast#178: Spin Master – Yep, The Toy CompanyGoing from public domain toys to Spin Master Originals was a must. How did Harari, Rabi and Verity do it? It wasn’t with the devil sticks.
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom and pop to major brands. Stephen Simple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is, well, it’s us, but we’re highlighting ads we’ve writte...2024-11-0619 minThe Real YouBuilding Authentic Connections: EP 19 with Megan Senese on Entrepreneurship, Empathy, and Legal Marketing TransformationWhat if you could build genuine relationships in the digital realm that transform your professional life? Join me, David Young, as I chat with Megan Senese, the inspiring co-founder of Stage, who shares her journey of fostering authenticity and empathy in the world of LinkedIn and legal marketing. Megan reveals how she amplifies underrepresented voices on her platform, using personal stories to create meaningful connections and remind us that there's a human behind every profile picture.The story takes an exciting turn as Megan recounts the bold leap from...2024-10-3151 minThe Empire Builders Podcast#177: Lip Bar – All Natural Happy PlaceThis is how you go from not wanting to be unhappy to working your passion to Shark Tank to Lipstick Empire. Way to go, Melissa Butler.
Dave Young:
Welcome to the Empire Builders Podcast, teaching business owners the not-so-secret techniques that took famous businesses from mom-and-pop to major brands. Stephen Semple is a marketing consultant, story collector, and storyteller. I’m Stephen’s sidekick and business partner, Dave Young. Before we get into today’s episode, a word from our sponsor, which is … well, it’s us. But we’re highlighting ads we’ve written and produced f...2024-10-3023 minThe Real YouBuilding Deep and Meaningful Relationships - EP 18 featuring Amanda KwokDiscover how Amanda Kwok turned a simple LinkedIn Writing Challenge into a powerful tool for personal branding and growth. In our conversation, Amanda reveals the secrets behind her engaging online presence, where the focus is on self-disclosure and idea promotion instead of self-promotion. Listen as she shares her journey into personal development, sparked by a transformative retreat in Ireland, and how she has woven photography and storytelling into her identity on LinkedIn.Transitioning from the tech world to luxury cabin retreats, Amanda's story illustrates the profound impact of nature on personal transformation. Faced...2024-10-241h 00The Real YouEP 17: Uncaging Identity: Katia Vlachos on Reinvention, Memoir Writing, and Authentic LivingKatia Vlachos joins us to uncover the journey behind her insightful memoir, "Uncaged: A Good Girl's Journey to Reinvention." Discover how Katia broke free from societal expectations to explore her true identity. We discuss her experiences with social conditioning and how she came to recognize and escape her own "golden cage." Her story is a testament to the power of introspection and the courage to pursue an authentic life, offering hope and guidance for anyone trapped in their current circumstances.Our conversation takes a deep dive into the art of memoir...2024-10-161h 04