1098: The New Frontier: Cowboys, AI Investing & Candid News

What if over 60% of employees in your office felt so lonely, they were already planning their exit—and this problem actually began long before the pandemic?Welcome to an eye-opening episode of Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond, where we reunite with dynamic keynote speaker and workplace culture thought leader, Jason Lauritsen. Together, Lou and Jason dive deep into the pressing crisis of disconnection in today’s society and the workplace—going far beyond the usual surface-level chatter about remote work and social media.Inside this Episode:You’ll discover the staggering reality behind the “loneliness epidemic” that’s been quietly brewing for years—even before COVID-19.Jason shares firsthand insights from his brand new Human Connection Study, exploring why so many feel isolated at work, what’s really driving this disengagement, and why old solutions just aren’t working anymore.Find out why “more meetings” might not be the enemy after all, and learn the undervalued power of authentic appreciation and recognition in the remote era.Jason and Lou unpack why basic relationship skills—like asking meaningful questions and checking in with each other—are more essential than ever, yet largely missing from leadership development.Plus, you’ll hear how inclusion and feeling seen for who you truly are may be the ultimate unlock for real engagement.Key Takeaways & What You Can Do:Recognize that loneliness at work is not a new phenomenon—and that technology alone didn’t cause it.Prioritize authentic connection: Start small by genuinely checking in on your coworkers, offering specific recognition, and creating space for people to bring their whole selves to work.Leaders: Rethink team activities and invest in building fundamental relationship skills, not just business acumen.Everyone: Take 10 minutes to participate in Jason’s Human Connection Study (http://Humanconnectionstudy.com), and share it with your network to drive powerful change in workplaces everywhere.Tune into Jason’s podcast, “Check In with Jason Lauritsen,” to keep learning from leaders who are modeling real human connection at work.Your Challenge:Reflect on your own workplace: Where are connection gaps hiding? When did you last make someone feel truly seen or appreciated? Use the lessons from this conversation to start bridging those gaps—one authentic interaction at a time.Listen now, and let’s build a connected workplace together.TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW00:00 Promote Connection and Relationships05:24 The Importance of Workplace Connection08:09 Exploring Social Norms Post-Pandemic14:04 Counterintuitive Findings on Remote Connection15:47 "Impact of Authentic Workplace Inclusion"21:00 College World Series Tradition in Omaha22:14 Summer Plans and Pool Time25:38 Human Connection Study Participation

What if the secret to your business’s survival isn’t about working harder or hustling more, but simply asking the right questions—ones you don’t even know you should be asking?In this eye-opening episode of Thrive Loud, Lou Diamond sits down with Eric Eager, serial entrepreneur, CPA, and founder of For Impact Data, to pull back the curtain on why businesses keep failing—even when we already “know better.” Eric dives into the surprising reality that, despite decades of available business data, entrepreneurs across the globe are still making the same costly mistakes over and over. Why? Because of what Eric calls "experience gaps"—the things we don’t know we don’t know.Key Highlights from the Episode:The “Experience Gap” Trap: Eric shares his journey through six startups (not all successful!) and reveals why seasoned business leaders keep repeating mistakes—and how to finally break this cycle using “codified wisdom.”Three Fundamental Business Models: No matter your industry or size, Eric boils it down to manufacturing, distribution, or services, and explains how focusing on a handful of fundamental business questions (like “Do we have enough cash?” or “Who are our best customers?”) can radically change your trajectory.The Business GPS Revolution: Learn how For Impact Data acts as a “business GPS,” using AI and collective wisdom to monitor the right metrics, predict risks, and recommend pivots before disaster strikes.From Wisdom Hoarding to Wisdom Sharing: Discover why so much valuable business knowledge gets lost in books and keynotes—and how Eric’s new podcast, Codified Wisdom, is making it accessible and actionable for everyone.Inspiration, Action, and Making an Impact: Eric opens up about the loneliness of entrepreneurship, the importance of sharing failures and lessons, and his mission to help save jobs and support thriving communities—one insight at a time.Ready to change your odds of thriving in business? Dive into this episode, and discover how simple questions (and collective wisdom) can transform your business and your life.Connect with Eric Eager:4IMPACTDATA.COMTune into Codified Wisdom anywhere you get your podcasts and on YouTubeLet’s make failure the exception—not the rule. Listen now and join the conversation!TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW00:00 "Common Entrepreneurial Mistakes Persist"07:25 Entrepreneurial Journey: Success and Challenges09:33 Transforming Businesses with Key Questions14:35 Entrepreneurial Persistence and Vision16:13 "Business Analytics: A GPS Guide"18:39 "Effective AI: Asking the Right Questions"23:30 Inspiring Entrepreneurial Survival Stories26:01 "Codified Wisdom Podcast Launch"30:37 Regret Missing Hiking Adventures34:36 "Eric Eager's Impactful Business Tools"35:17 "Onward: Be Brief, Be Bright"

What if the biggest mistake you’re making with your money isn’t what you’re investing in — but how you’re structuring your life and business?On this eye-opening episode of Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond, host Lou Diamond sits down with the legendary Loral Langemeier—six-time New York Times bestselling author and renowned financial expert—for a candid conversation packed with money-making, future-proofing wisdom. This isn’t just another interview about “getting rich”; this is a masterclass in building systems, navigating market volatility, and creating a legacy that lasts.Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:The Millionaire Maker Reboot: Loral reveals how (and why) she’s relaunching her iconic Millionaire Maker brand after 25 years and what she’s learned mentoring over 10,000 millionaires.How COVID Changed Everything: Hear the surprising ways Loral pivoted from 100% live events to a thriving online business almost overnight—and what you can do to adapt, no matter your industry.From Corporate Hacks to Real Legacy: Practical tips on tax strategies, paying your kids, setting up the right business entities, and avoiding the pitfalls that even the wealthy often miss.Investing in Uncertain Times: Where are the real opportunities right now (hint: it’s not just crypto and gold), and why boring assets like RV parks and storage units are hotter than you think.Keys to Thriving, Not Just Surviving: The “hats” that everyone wears in business and investing, and the essential one that Loral believes is the game-changer for wealth-builders.Advice for Every Generation: Hilarious (and helpful) banter about getting your adult kids off the family phone plan, and how to truly set up both your children—and your legacy—for success.Special Offer:Loral is giving listeners two free tickets to her upcoming all-day event, where you can learn her wealth strategies live and even pitch your own product or book in a real-time marketplace. Claim your tickets (plus five of her bestselling eBooks) at IntegratedWealthSystems.com/ThriveLoud.Ready to stop “parking and praying” with your finances and start directing your own legacy? Dive in—this one is filled with moments, money moves, and motivation you won’t want to miss.Timestamped Overview00:00 Changing Strategies for Wealth Building03:16 Building Wealth Through Business Success06:23 Facilitating Synergies and Connections12:01 Pivoting to Online Influence14:17 Planning Family Legacy Transition18:04 "Dancing to Millionaire Success"19:15 "Fun Street with Laurel"23:19 Thrive Loud Podcast Promotion

What if the moment your life completely fell apart was actually the turning point you needed to take your power back?In this eye-opening episode of Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and empowerment mentor Tania Khazaal joins Lou for a raw and inspiring conversation. Tania pulls back the curtain on her journey from growing up in community housing and overcoming toxic relationships, chronic health issues, and financial hardship—even living out of her car at one point—to becoming a seven-figure founder, bestselling author, and the mentor women turn to when they’re ready to reclaim their lives.Key highlights you won’t want to miss:The Rock Bottom Surrender: Tania shares the pivotal moment she quit her job and left a toxic relationship all in the same day—despite having nowhere to go and no backup plan—and how that leap of faith opened unimaginable doors.The Four Pillars of Empowerment: Discover Tania’s system for helping women reclaim voice and purpose without sacrificing health, family, or femininity: your inner world, relationships, well-being, and vision & legacy.Surrender and Power—How Do They Connect? Learn how Tania bridges the gap between surrendering to a higher power and actively owning your choices to create real transformation.Morning Routines & Thriving: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Tania starts her day (hint: it’s not by checking emails!) and her essential practices for regaining momentum when the going gets tough.Fun & Favorites: Light-hearted rapid fire explores Tania’s love for steak (yes, really), family bike rides, favorite reads, and the movie that reminds her how to rise above circumstances—plus her dream destinations around the globe.Feeling inspired? Connect with Tania Khazaal on Instagram, Facebook, and at tanatheherbalist.com. Visit ThriveLoud.com for more empowering stories, and remember—sometimes, the hardest moments are the catalysts for your greatest breakthroughs.Listen in, be inspired, and learn how surrendering might be the most powerful first step to taking control of your life.00:00 Breaking Generational Cycles Successfully05:49 Life Overhaul: Starting Anew09:25 Healer Coaches: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs11:17 Morning Family Time Ritual14:54 "Transformative Reads by Joe Dispenza"19:13 "Thrive Loud Podcast Promo"Timestamped Overview

What compels an American combat veteran to risk everything and smuggle suitcases of wine and vodka out of a war zone?In this eye-opening episode of Thrive Loud with Lou Diamond, Lou sits down with Sam Lerman, founder of Spirit Worldwide—a venture that’s bringing the finest Ukrainian wine and vodka to the United States while fueling life-saving humanitarian efforts back in Ukraine. Sam’s journey began not as a business strategy, but as a deployment: a seasoned military and defense industry expert, Sam entered Ukraine at the height of the Russian invasion to help equip and train the Ukrainian armed forces. But what started as a few weeks in a war-torn safe house soon turned into a life-changing mission, blending Sam’s love of Ukraine’s people, culture—and surprisingly world-class spirits—with a new entrepreneurial purpose.Key highlights from this episode:Sam’s powerful origin story: from U.S. Army service to front-line procurement and advisory roles during the Ukraine invasionThe clandestine (and sometimes comedic) adventures of smuggling Ukrainian wine and vodka for friends and familyWhy few Americans have ever tasted high-end Ukrainian spirits—and how Soviet history and geopolitics played a roleThe birth of Spirit Worldwide and its unique business model: every bottle supports landmine removal and humanitarian work in Ukraine, with 15% of profits pledged to life-saving initiativesUkraine’s global wine history, cultural flavor, and the astonishing international success of their vodkas (including double gold awards at U.S. competitions)The real energy, resilience, and daily life inside Ukraine from someone who’s lived through the war up closeEntrepreneurial lessons: navigating the U.S. alcohol industry from scratch, managing regulatory chaos, and building a brand that creates both impact and awarenessThis episode is not just about spirits—it’s about true spirit in the face of adversity, and how a love for culture and people can fuel world-changing business. Don’t miss this remarkable journey from combat boots to premium bottles, and learn how you can be a part of something bigger—one glass at a time.Listen, share, and discover more at Spirit Worldwide and @Thriveloud on all platforms!TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW00:00 From Military to Defense Industry04:20 Living in Ukrainian Safe House09:49 Bringing Ukrainian Alcohol to USA11:10 Wine, Vodka, and Landmine Removal17:30 Balancing Philanthropy and Entrepreneurship18:27 Navigating Alcohol Industry Challenges24:21 The War's Sobering Impact26:19 New Brand Ambassador and Expansion30:54 "Sam Lerman's Ukrainian Influence"

What does it take to stare into the most frightening moments of a family’s life—and not only hold steady, but help them find hope and healing?In this powerful episode of Thrive Loud with Lou Diamond, we meet Dr. David Sandberg, a fellowship-trained pediatric neurosurgeon, director at McGovern Medical School at UT Health Houston, and author of the memoir Brain and Heart. Lou and Dr. Sandberg dive deep into the realities of pediatric neurosurgery—a field filled with both heartbreak and hope. Dr. Sandberg shares the emotional and physical challenges of performing brain surgery on children and reveals the strength required to guide families through their darkest hours.Key Highlights:Origins of a Calling: Hear how childhood inspiration and early experiences with global medical missions shaped Dr. Sandberg’s life and career.Inside the Surgeon’s Mind: Discover why Dr. Sandberg wrote Brain and Heart—offering an honest, behind-the-scenes look into a surgeon’s thoughts, emotions, and the decision-making process few ever see.Balancing Expertise with Empathy: Learn how pediatric neurosurgeons face the hardest conversations imaginable while still remaining compassionate, and find out how Dr. Sandberg personally manages the emotional toll.Practical Creativity: Get a peek into Dr. Sandberg’s unique, non-linear writing process and how sharing his stories has created unexpected gifts, including reconnecting with friends and helping the families he serves.Fun & Grounding Rituals: Enjoy a lighter side as Dr. Sandberg shares personal favorites—from “Wagon Wheel” to hot dogs, boxing workouts, and his love of family time and global outreach.Tune in for an inspiring, heartfelt conversation that reminds us all: even in the toughest moments, brain and heart can—and must—work together.Want more? Grab a copy of Dr. Sandberg’s memoir Brain and Heart at your favorite bookstore or online retailer, and follow Thrive Loud for more conversations with game-changing humans.Timestamped Overview00:00 Pediatric Neurosurgeon Inspired by Service05:06 "Inside a Doctor's Mind"06:23 Empathetic Surgeons Break Stereotypes09:49 "The Gift of Reconnection"16:38 "Thrive Loud Podcast Outro"

What if the next time you shopped on social media, you were actually supporting a small business—without even realizing it?In this action-packed special episode of Thrive Loud, live from the Wall Street Conference, Lou Diamond sits down with three trailblazing leaders who are reshaping the future of e-commerce, tech, wireless infrastructure, and food sustainability. Get ready for insights that could change how you do business—and how you think about supporting entrepreneurs everywhere.Key Highlights:Aaron Day (Amaze Software): Discover how Amaze is quietly powering native commerce for creators on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Twitch—so seamlessly that millions of shoppers have no idea they’re using Amaze tech! Aaron explains the wild ride from hyper-growth startup to a public company, the challenges of switching from “growth at all costs” to sustainable business, and why going public can be a game-changer for empowering small businesses worldwide. He also shares how YOU may have used Amaze without even knowing it, and what he’s learned about leadership through massive pivots and personal discomfort.Michael Kelly (Velocity Wireless): From saving $10 million on projects for giants like AT&T to building his own company from the ground up, Michael reveals the real story behind American wireless infrastructure—and how even small property owners can get in on the action. He opens up about the joys and pains of entrepreneurship, building a nationwide team, and why nurturing relationships is his secret sauce for success.Carl Boyanton (Farmer Fresh Produce): With decades of experience in the produce industry, Carl shares his mission to bring healthy, American-grown food to those in need through his non-profit work. Hear his fascinating journey—from running billion-dollar produce businesses to founding initiatives that provide fresh food for veterans and the underserved. He gets candid about the state of American produce—why it often looks great but tastes...underwhelming—and reveals the surprising science and charity innovations that could change everything.Follow-ups for Listeners:Check out Amaze Software (amaze.co), especially if you’re a creator looking to monetize directly on your favorite platforms. Investors can track AMZE on the NYSE.For those in the real estate or wireless space, learn more about Velocity Wireless at velocitywirelessllc.com.To support healthy food access and innovative charity models, visit farmfresh4ms.org and see how you can help or replicate their approach in your area.Whether you’re a tech entrepreneur, small business owner, or just passionate about supporting innovation and healthy communities, this episode will inspire you to think bigger, act bolder, and make a meaningful impact—often where you least expect it.Timestamped Overview00:00 "Thrive Loud: Wall Street Conference"04:59 "Startup Growth and Post-COVID Pivot"08:50 Supporting Small Businesses Publicly09:43 "Empowering Future Entrepreneurs"15:53 Starting a Business: Challenges & Rewards17:06 Opportunity in Rooftop Leasing22:21 From Produce Worker to Entrepreneur24:24 "California Firm Tackles Chronic Diseases"27:13 "American Produce: Year-Round Challenges"31:39 "Thrive Loud with Lou Diamond"

Get ready for a double feature of inspiration and innovation on this special episode of Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond! Recorded live from the buzzing floor of the Wall Street Conference in Palm Beach, Florida (May 2025), Lou sits down with two dynamic guests: seasoned Wall Street pro and financial media expert Marc LoPresti, and entrepreneurial visionary Matthew Levenson, co-founder of both StubHub and Pepper, an AI-powered shopping assistant.First, Marc LoPresti shares his lively journey from his Italian Brooklyn roots and early days at Lehman Brothers, to becoming a well-known financial commentator and CEO of Market Rebellion. Marc dives into the evolution of Wall Street, market volatility in the face of political tape bombs, and what it really takes to thrive both behind the scenes and on camera.Then, Lou connects with Matthew Levenson, whose experience building and selling StubHub helped spark his latest venture: Pepper. Matt explains how Pepper’s AI assistant is disrupting the way we shop, making it possible for anyone—not just obsessive bargain hunters—to get personalized recommendations and the best prices, all while driving real ROI for retailers.Both guests open up about their passion for their work, the challenges they’ve faced, and what motivates them to keep pushing boundaries. Plus, stick around for the rapid-fire speed round, including insights about family, food, yoga, and more.Don’t miss: — Marc’s powerful remembrance of his uncle, a Wall Street legend lost on 9/11 — How media has changed the NYSE (and what it’s like on the trading floor now) — Matt’s behind-the-scenes StubHub story and the origin of the “buyer guarantee” — Why AI is the future of online shopping—and how Pepper aims to simplify your lifeTo learn more about the guests: Marc LoPresti — @mxlesq on X and MarketRebellion.comMatthew Levenson — [email protected] and GoPepper.comIf you love stories about resilience, business evolution, and the intersection of technology and humanity, this episode is for you!Hit subscribe and join the Thrive Loud community for more episodes featuring leaders who are taking life, business, and passion to the next level!Timestamped Overview00:00 "Thrive Loud: Wall Street Conference"05:35 Financial Markets: From Trader to Media06:27 NYSE: From Commerce Hub to Museum12:26 Economic Warning: Irreversible Trade War Impact14:01 Earnings Season's Market Impact Analysis16:41 Broadcasting Thrills Persist21:36 Simplifying Fragmented Supply Online23:27 "Pepper: AI Shopping Assistant Revolution"28:20 Optimized Shopping Discount Integration32:58 "Entrepreneurship: Legacy Over Easy Profits"35:04 "Startup Pitch for Investment"39:03 Customer Experience: Key to Success

What if the key to your financial future isn’t just about making money—but about learning to truly control it? This special episode of Thrive LouD with Lou Diamond, recorded live at the Wall Street Conference in Palm Beach, Florida, tears the cover off conventional thinking around investing, entrepreneurship, and service, revealing what industry veterans, market legends, and unstoppable philanthropists are REALLY doing to move the needle.Key Highlights:Jon Najarian (“DRJ” from Market Rebellion) reveals why trading stocks alone just isn’t enough anymore. He shares fascinating insights on the explosive growth of the options market—now outpacing stocks in dollar value traded—and walks you through how you can leverage options for greater financial control, even if you’re not a math whiz. Jon also lifts the curtain on his journey to becoming the go-to TV commentator for market analysis, why media sensationalism can derail investors, and his core rule: “Trade the market you have, not the one you want.”Stephen Meade (“The Bullseye Guy”) details what it takes to build 17 companies, take three public, and master the art of targeting your entrepreneurial focus. He breaks down the upcoming revolution in digital equity exchanges, why $30 trillion in “green bond” capital is reshaping markets, and how every business—big or small—can think globally with new tech.John Rourke shares a genuinely moving story of post-military service, channeling his army-honed drive into massive community clean-ups, Southern border support, and first responder advocacy. You’ll learn how one individual can mobilize meaningful change, raise money for good, and inspire collective action—without corporate resources or a big team.Listener Challenge: Pick ONE insight from this episode—maybe starting your own options account, reaching out to a local charity, or researching digital equity platforms—and take action this week. Share your progress with Lou and the Thrive LouD community on social media for accountability and support!Links & Follow-Up:Market Rebellion & Jon’s Book: marketrebellion.com | itsnotanoption.comStephen Meade: thebullseyeguy.comJohn Rourke: wefundtheblue.comTIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW00:00 "ThriveLoud Wall Street Special"05:44 From Independent Trader to Options Expert07:59 From Media Appearances to Independence12:00 Diverse Attendees at Davos Conference15:56 Launching Global Digital Stock Exchange19:34 Global Direct Public Offerings22:29 Dubai's Sustainable Investments Boom26:26 Narcan Rescue Spurs Volunteer Cleanups28:25 Southern Border Dog Rescue Efforts31:00 "Actions Over Words for Change"33:44 "Simple Pleasures, Big Impact"

Get ready for a jam-packed episode of Thrive Loud with Lou Diamond, recorded live from the Wall Street Conference in Palm Beach, Florida! In this special installment, Lou sits down for inspiring conversations with three dynamic leaders from diverse industries:👤 Drew Taylor – The former "Crypto Cowboy" and host of the Wild West Crypto Show shares stories of reinvention, insight into his latest venture building a retirement resort in Mexico, and the mindset that keeps him constantly embracing new opportunities—from crypto to real estate and beyond.👤 Randy Tate – CEO and Co-Founder of iFlip, Randy unpacks how his AI-powered investment platform is democratizing Wall Street for everyday investors. Discover why iFlip’s low-fee, risk-managed approach is shaking up the financial services industry, and how technology is leveling the playing field for all.👤 Janice Trey – CEO of The Epoch Times, Janice discusses her journey from CPA to media leader, and explains The Epoch Times’ commitment to truth, integrity, and independence in journalism. Learn how the publication is pioneering unbiased reporting and supporting financial literacy worldwide.Lou and his guests cover everything from technological disruption and global economics to authentic leadership, adapting to change, and the power of trustworthy information in today’s uncertain world.Don’t miss this engaging, candid, and uplifting episode—filled with practical insights, entrepreneurial wisdom, and a little bit of cowboy spirit!👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more episodes connecting you to the most inspiring people on the planet.🌐 Connect with our guests:- Drew Taylor: Google "Wild West Crypto Show" to find his latest work- Randy Tate & iFlip: [https://iflipinvest.com](https://iflipinvest.com/)- Janice Trey & The Epoch Times: [https://theepochtimes.com](https://theepochtimes.com/)#ThriveLoud #LouDiamond #WallStreetConference #Entrepreneurship #Crypto #Investing #Media #AI #Leadership #FinancialLiteracyTimestamped Overview00:00 Thrive Loud: Wall Street Conference Highlights05:54 "Building World's Largest Media Firm"06:47 "Embracing Change and Exploration"11:09 "Crypto's Role in Philanthropy"15:42 Wall Street Risk Passed to Man Street17:00 Misleading AI Label in Finance21:08 "Thrive Loud: Janice Trey Interview"25:15 Fortune 500 Executive Experience28:31 "Guiding Through Geopolitical Challenges"29:48 "Special Promotions for Subscriptions"