From Devastation to Purpose: How One Mom Became the "Special Education Boss" with Karen Meyer Cunningham

What if the most devastating moment of your life became the launchpad for your greatest mission? In this emotional and unforgettable episode, Rory Vaden sits down with Karen Mayer Cunningham—better known online as the "Special Education Boss"—whose personal journey through heartbreak, diagnosis, and systemic failure turned into a nationwide movement to change how we serve children with disabilities. After being told her son would never speak or play with other kids, Karen refused to accept the status quo. Her raw determination led her from desperate mom to nationally recognized advocate, author of The Epic IEP, and online educator with over a million followers. Listen as Karen shares: The heartbreaking story that ignited her calling How she built a thriving business from a place of service Why niche audiences unlock the greatest impact and influence The simple strategy behind her viral growth—no fancy tech, no big team Her bold mindset around monetizing your mission without guilt This episode is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose, purpose into platform, and platform into legacy. Whether you're a parent, educator, entrepreneur, or just someone with a calling—Karen's story will move you and motivate you.   To Buy Karen's Book "The Epic IEP", click HERE CLICK HERE to listen to the Wealthy and Wellknown Audiobook FREE

What if your darkest moments could become your greatest breakthroughs? In this jaw-dropping episode, Hal Elrod—best-selling author of The Miracle Morning—reveals the unfiltered story behind his miraculous life. From dying for six minutes in a car crash to beating a rare, aggressive cancer with a 30% survival rate, Hal opens up about the moments that could have destroyed him—but instead defined him. You'll hear how the death of his baby sister planted the seed for a life of purpose, why discipline without identity won't last, and how your adversity might just be the preparation for your assignment. Rory Vaden sits down with Hal for an unforgettable conversation that unpacks not just how The Miracle Morning was born—but why it became a global movement that's changed millions of lives. If you've ever doubted yourself, struggled to stay consistent, or felt stuck in your personal brand journey… this is the episode you didn't know you needed. You'll learn: The mindset shift that helped Hal walk again after being told he never would. The practical framework behind the S.A.V.E.R.S. method—and how to stick with it. Why who you become matters more than what you achieve. How to build a personal brand that endures—and changes lives. This isn't just inspiration—it's your wake-up call.

How do you grow your business without drowning in stress, chaos, and burnout? In this candid, behind-the-scenes episode of Wealthy & Well-Known, Rory and AJ Vaden open up about the realities of running multiple companies, raising a family, and building a personal brand—all while setting boundaries that protect their time, energy, and faith. AJ shares the raw lessons learned from hustling through 80-hour workweeks, what finally made her redefine success, and how she now operates as a high-performing CEO with a schedule rooted in purpose—not pressure. You'll learn: The real difference between growth and scale (and why getting it wrong can ruin your business) How to create boundaries that fuel—not fight—your productivity When it's time to hire, and how to make that decision before burnout hits Why clarity around why you're scaling is the difference between thriving and burning out If you're building something big but want to protect what matters most, this is your roadmap. It's honest. It's powerful. And it might just change how you lead forever.

How Niche Is Too Niche? Crafting a Story That Converts, Not Just Connects Most people stumble when asked, "What do you do?" But in today's crowded marketplace, a vague story doesn't sell—it stalls. In this episode, AJ and Rory Vaden break down how to clarify your story, define your audience, and convert conversations into clients. You'll learn how to: Identify your niche through your personal story—not the other way around Discern which version of your past self you're best positioned to serve Create a simple but powerful elevator pitch that moves people to action Use the "six-foot rule" to uncover hidden offline opportunities Avoid the trap of telling stories that connect but don't convert Whether you're speaking on stage, posting online, or standing in line at Starbucks—this episode will help you master the art of storyselling and turn everyday moments into meaningful business growth.

"Every time I hear the word authentic, I throw up in my mouth a little." That's how Rory Vaden opens this raw and riveting conversation about one of personal branding's most overused—and misunderstood—buzzwords: authenticity. Alongside AJ Vaden, the two co-founders of Brand Builders Group debate, dissect, and redefine what it really means to be authentic in today's digital-first world. Is authenticity just curated vulnerability? Where's the line between connection and oversharing? And how do you know when it's finally time to tell the hard parts of your story? This episode isn't just talk—it's transformation. You'll leave with a practical, powerful framework for sharing your truth with courage, integrity, and intention—without damaging your brand or your relationships. In this episode, you'll discover: The real reason we're all obsessed with "authenticity" (and where it went off track) How to know if you're being honest… or just strategically vulnerable A simple two-rule test to decide if you're ready to share a story publicly Why your hard moments may be your most valuable brand assets The difference between transparency and privacy—and how to protect both If you're building a personal brand in a world full of filters, this episode is your clarity check.   CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR FREE AUDIOBOOK!

If you've ever felt awkward about selling—or thought "sales" is a dirty word—this episode will completely shift your mindset. Rory and AJ Vaden, two of the most accomplished sales professionals in the personal branding world, pull back the curtain on what truly drives conversions: service-centered selling. In this transparent and tactical conversation, they redefine what it means to sell with integrity, impact, and conviction. You'll learn why sales is not about slick talk but meaningful questions, how to guide prospects through a decision (without pushing), and why your conviction in your offer directly influences your close rate. Whether you're a personal brand, entrepreneur, or founder still trying to outsource your sales (spoiler: don't), this episode will challenge, equip, and energize you to sell with heart—and close with confidence. 👉 Discover the simple mindset shift that unlocks ethical, high-conversion selling. 👉 Learn the exact questions that create clarity and connection with buyers. 👉 Hear the real story behind closing high-ticket offers—from someone who's done it hundreds of times. Listen now to transform how you sell—and why your dream clients are waiting for you to lead the conversation.   CLICK TO DOWNLOAD OUR FREE AUDIOBOOK

Is Direct Sales Dead — or Just Evolving? The Truth About Personal Branding in Today's Market In this deeply insightful episode, Rory and AJ Vaden break down the seismic shifts happening in direct sales, affiliate marketing, and influencer-driven commerce. From the collapse of traditional MLM structures to the rise of personal brands owning their audiences, this conversation explores what it really takes to build lasting success in today's volatile sales environment. Rory shares his record-breaking journey in direct sales and how that shaped his philosophy on people-first business models. AJ challenges the profit-over-people mindset driving many companies to ditch field forces for digital links—and asks the uncomfortable questions about what we lose when relationships are replaced by reach. If you're a micro-entrepreneur, direct seller, or building any kind of business based on trust and community, this episode is your playbook. You'll learn: The critical difference between affiliate, influencer, and direct sales Why owning your audience is now non-negotiable The real reason major brands are shifting models—and what that means for you How in-person experiences are making a comeback in a digital-first world Why community, trust, and human connection are your biggest competitive advantages Whether you're starting from scratch or leading a massive team, this episode will shift how you think about marketing, monetization, and the power of your personal brand.

If you're using AI to chase shortcuts or avoiding it altogether, you're already behind. In this episode of the Wealthy and Well-Known Podcast, Rory and AJ Vaden pull back the curtain on how they're integrating AI into the core operations of Brand Builders Group—not with hype, but with hard-won, real-world systems that are actually working right now. After years of testing and building, they've developed a practical approach to AI that helps them scale without sacrificing the human strategy that makes their brand magnetic. This isn't about chasing shiny objects—it's about leveraging intelligent tools to build a high-trust, high-impact business that runs without burning you out. If you're tired of trading time for money and want to build a business that grows with or without you, this conversation is your next step. Inside this episode: Why most entrepreneurs mistake growth for scale—and stay stuck because of it The two-audience framework that allows you to serve your clients and your team with AI Why BBG ditched generic tools to build a proprietary bot suite The most powerful, practical use-cases of AI Rory and AJ are using today How AJ is cutting hiring time in half while improving quality across the board Time-saving strategies they're applying both at home and in business Why most AI strategies fail—and what to do differently If you want to scale smart and stay relevant, this episode is a must.   DOWNLOAD OUR FREE AUDIOBOOK: wealthyandwellknown.com/audiobook

In this intimate and unfiltered episode, Rory and AJ Vaden pull back the curtain on how they truly think about money—and it's probably not what you'd expect. From debt-free living and conservative investing to running an eight-figure business without paying themselves a salary for five years, they share the countercultural principles that have helped them build financial peace without chasing flashy wealth. You'll learn: Why "peace is the new profit" is more than just a mantra How they structured their personal finances to avoid money fights in marriage The mindset shift that helped them prioritize purpose over pressure Smart strategies for managing business and personal money simply and sustainably The spiritual (and strategic) power of tithing and generosity This episode is not financial advice—it's a rare look at the real-life decisions, philosophies, and lived experiences that have brought lasting stability to one couple's life and business. Whether you're growing a business, trying to get out of debt, or just tired of money stress, this conversation will challenge your thinking and inspire your path forward.   To find out more about Brand Builders Group, and download the Wealth and Wellknown Audiobook for FREE - click here!

Welcome to The Wealthy and Well-Known Podcast — hosted by Rory Vaden and AJ Vaden, co-founders of Brand Builders Group. This is the show for mission-driven messengers who want to build reputation and revenue at the same time. Whether you're launching a book, scaling a business, or trying to become a recognized expert in your space, you'll learn how to craft a Monetized Personal Brand™ that drives massive impact. Each episode features real coaching, case studies from our 1-on-1 clients, and insider strategies from 8-figure entrepreneurs, viral speakers, New York Times bestselling authors, and trusted BBG partners. You'll hear directly from the minds behind some of today's most influential personal brands. Subscribe and turn on notifications — because your message matters, and the world needs to know your name.