214: Remembering John Ruhlin: The Secret to Great Relationships

Did you know less than 1% of companies are publicly traded? While most investors obsess over stocks, the ultra-wealthy are quietly building fortunes in the other 99%. Today, we’re unlocking their playbook.In this episode, I’m talking with Christopher Zook, Founder of CAZ Investments and co-author of “The Holy Grail of Investing,” which he co-authored with Tony Robbins, to explore how the wealthiest individuals invest differently. From private equity and real estate to professional sports ownership, Christopher reveals the strategies they use to create cash flow, reduce risk, and build lasting wealth.We break down why private markets consistently outperform public markets, the power of true diversification beyond stocks and bonds, and how to align your investments for maximum upside with minimal risk. Plus, Christopher shares game-changing insights into new legislation that could make these opportunities accessible to more investors than ever.If you’re ready to rethink your approach to investing, this episode is packed with actionable insights.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ How new rules around accredited investors are opening up private markets to more people, including the ability to invest 401(k) and 403(b) plans in private opportunities.✅ Why GP Stakes are one of the hottest private equity trends of the past decade, how he became a first mover in the space, and why this investment offers a stronger risk-reward balance and reliable cash flow.✅ How big family offices and high-net-worth investors think about capital allocation, risk management, and building generational wealth away from the volatility of public markets.✅ How Christopher is entering the rapidly expanding world of sports investments, why it’s poised for massive growth, and what it means for investors looking to capitalize on this emerging trend. Free Gift Get Christopher's report, "GP Stakes: A New Path to Private Equity." Visit LifestyleInvestor.com/217Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/217Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever wonder how the wealthiest families invest their money? Spoiler alert: It’s nothing like the 60/40 stock-to-bond strategy you’ve been told to follow.In this episode, Scott Ford pulls back the curtain on how the rich strategically grow and protect their wealth, revealing why 45%-59% of their portfolios are allocated to alternative investments.Not only is Scott a Lifestyle Investor Mastermind member, but he’s also the founder of The Way2Wealth, a holistic financial framework that empowers you to protect, grow, and enjoy your wealth. With 30+ years in wealth management, Scott has mastered the art of creating sustainable strategies that work for everyday investors and the ultra-wealthy alike.His mission is to spread education about finances and give people the tools that they need to reach financial independence through financial wisdom.In this episode, Scott shares how the 1% approach wealth differently and how you can apply those same principles to achieve financial freedom for yourself.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Scott’s "All Season Investing" strategy: A simple, actionable framework for navigating market cycles and achieving long-term growth.✅ The infinite banking concept – and how to use it as a strategic tool to store wealth, maintain liquidity, and fund future opportunities.✅ The 2 most important questions you should ask financial advisors before trusting them with your money—and how to avoid common pitfalls in the industry.Free Gift Get Scott's All Seasons Investing whitepaper. Visit LifestyleInvestor.com/216Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/216Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do you do when the dream life you’ve worked so hard for starts to feel empty? Christian Ray Flores went from global stardom as a musician to rediscovering purpose through service, family, and faith. His journey isn’t just inspiring—it’s a roadmap for anyone chasing a life that truly matters.Christian was living the dream—millions of fans, sold-out arenas, and chart-topping hits. But behind the glitz, he felt a void that success couldn’t fill. In this episode, Christian shares how he walked away from fame to pursue a more meaningful life. He takes us through his journey of redefining success, investing in holistic growth, and using his experiences to coach high achievers around the world.Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or simply seeking a life of greater impact, Christian’s story will challenge and inspire you to live life on your terms.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ How Christian became one of Russia’s biggest pop stars—and why he walked away.✅ Why so many high achievers feel unfulfilled—and how to break free.✅ Life-changing lessons from coaching Olympic athletes, entrepreneurs, fashion designers, artists, and Russian mafia members.Free Gift Get free access to the Xponential Life Scorecard, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/214Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/214Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week’s episode is deeply special to me and many of you who knew or were impacted by the late John Ruhlin. John was not just a master at his craft—he was a master at life, relationships, and giving. His unexpected passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and his revolutionary work in the art of gift giving.This conversation originally aired in May 2021 and remains one of the most important episodes I’ve ever recorded. John was one of my closest friends—someone I’ve known since we were 18 years old. Over decades of friendship, he continually lifted me up, connected me with incredible people, and exemplified what it means to lead with a giving heart. His company, Giftology, has transformed businesses and relationships alike, and his book has become a must-read for anyone looking to make a lasting impact.In this tribute episode, you’ll hear John’s heart, his wisdom, and his genuine perspective on life and relationships. You’ll laugh with us, reflect on his insights, and hopefully feel inspired to carry forward his legacy of giving. John’s business partner and close friend, Rod, has pledged to continue running Giftology for the next 18 years to support John’s wife, Lindsey, and their four beautiful daughters, Reagan, Blakeley, Saylor, and Layton.If you feel moved to honor John’s legacy, consider exploring the incredible work his team continues to do at giftologygroup.com. Supporting their work not only carries forward John’s mission but directly supports his family. For more details, you can visit giftologygroup.com/rwa.Thank you for listening to this heartfelt tribute. John was truly one of a kind, and I’m honored to share his story, his message, and his legacy with you.PLEASE SUPPORT JOHN'S FAMILYHonor John’s legacy and support his family by making a donation. Every little amount helps and will go directly towards taking care of his wife Lindsay, and their four daughters (Reagan, Blakely, Saylor, & Layton – age 4 to 14). CLICK HERE to make a donation.REFERRALS WITHOUT ASKINGJohn’s mission was to bring greater generosity to the world while lifting up coachable business leaders to places they never thought possible. Whether you’re an executive of a Fortune 100 company, an owner, a startup, or a solo-professional conquering your industry – GIFT∙OLOGY changes relationships forever. And relationships take you places that traditional marketing can’t. So, if you want to honor john and his work, a great place to start is by checking out Referrals Without Asking – a free resource that will allow you to turn your contacts into endless referral partners. CLICK HERE to get the guide.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Imagine knowing in your 20s what you know now—how much further ahead would you be? That’s exactly what today’s guests, Nick and Molly Pastermack, are helping ambitious investors under 35 achieve.Nick and Molly are serial entrepreneurs, mentors, and leaders of the Lifestyle Investor Foundations Mastermind—a group we started to equip young adults with the tools, strategies, and connections they need to fast-track their success.From humble beginnings as college cheerleaders to building over two dozen businesses, their story is one of grit, growth, and unwavering vision. They’ve navigated industries from real estate to wellness, all while raising two incredible children and mentoring hundreds of aspiring leaders. Their mission? To equip young professionals with the skills that truly matter—financial freedom, optimal health, emotional intelligence, and business growth.If you’re a parent, this episode provides an inspiring look at what’s possible for the next generation. Nick and Molly are creating a ripple effect for families who want to see their children thrive—helping young people make smarter choices, achieve financial independence, and lead meaningful lives.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ How Nick and Molly Pastermack turned early failures into stepping stones for building over two dozen businesses across diverse industries—and the lessons they want young professionals to take away.✅ The 4 pillars of success they teach in the Lifestyle Investor Foundations Mastermind—financial freedom, optimal health, emotional intelligence, and business growth—and why these areas are crucial for achieving lasting success.✅ Actionable strategies parents can use to empower their children to think bigger, act boldly, and make smarter financial decisions, even if they’re just starting their wealth-building journey.Free Gift To get the The Lifestyle Investor Foundations Live Event video replay, visit https://lifestyleinvestor.com/foundationsShow Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/213Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it take to rebound from crushing losses, build multiple successful companies, and turn setbacks into strategic investments? In today’s episode, I sit down with Jeremy Delk, founder of Delk Enterprises, who has mastered the art of “failing forward” to build a diverse portfolio of profitable ventures.Starting as a Wall Street trader who earned and lost millions by age 20, Jeremy’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. He shares his path from trading chaos to strategic exits, including the highs and lows of investing in early-stage companies, the lessons learned from losing big on a Ponzi scheme, and how global travel opened his perspective on business and life.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Jeremy’s incredible story of making millions at 19, losing it all in four days, and building a powerhouse VC fund across multiple industries.✅ Strategies for building teams and systems that allow you to lead without micromanaging. ✅ Jeremy’s tips for exiting at the perfect time, what makes a company worth betting on, and how to avoid the common traps that catch many entrepreneurs when they try to shift from founder to investor.Free GiftGet The 10 Commandments of a Lifestyle Investor. Visit LifestyleInvestor.com/212Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/212Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if hiring top talent for your business was easier than you thought? Today, I'm talking with my friend and Lifestyle Investor Alum Kasim Aslam, who, after selling his Google Ads agency for 8-figures, set his sights on a new mission: helping entrepreneurs scale by connecting them with top-tier executive assistants from emerging markets. In this episode, he reveals how tapping into international talent has transformed his business—and how it can transform yours, too.He breaks down the process of hiring from countries like Argentina and Colombia, where executive assistants can offer more than just admin support—they can become the backbone of your operations.In This Episode You’ll Learn:✅ The Talent Advantage: Why Kasim believes top executive assistants from emerging markets are the secret weapon for small businesses looking to scale sustainably.✅ Beyond Outsourcing: Kasim’s unique approach to finding and developing team members who don’t just assist but become critical assets to your business.✅ Building Your Talent Pipeline: How to create a hiring system that’s designed to grow your business and free up your time—all while making a global impact.Free GiftTo get access to Kasim's full Delegation Library for Entrepreneurs, which includes 80+ task ideas you can delegate to your assistant today! Visit LifestyleInvestor.com/211Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/211Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“We're going to ask the investor community to prove that they deserve the opportunity to invest in your beautiful business.” That’s a quote from today’s guest, Peter Worrell—a mergers & acquisition expert with over 4 decades of experience helping entrepreneur owner-managers achieve successful capital gain events by maximizing the enterprise value of their businesses. Pete’s here today to address one of the biggest challenges that entrepreneurs face... How can you maximize the value of your business and secure the best possible exit? Most entrepreneurs rush into selling and leave millions on the table—without even realizing it. But Pete's approach has helped countless entrepreneurs sell their companies for life-changing wealth—often far beyond what they ever dreamed possible. 00:00 Intro02:00 Why Boosting Enterprise Value is Essential for Every Entrepreneur05:23 The Right Time to Tell Your Team You’re Selling Your Business07:45 The Best Time to Start Preparing Your Business for Exit08:50 How to Make Investors Compete for a Stake in Your Business10:25 How to Level the Playing Field in Investor Negotiations13:00 Choosing the Right Advisors to Maximize Your Business Value18:26 Why High Margins, Not Just Revenue, Attract Top Investors24:14 Why Your Company’s Future Vision Drives Higher Valuation30:45 Attracting the Right Fit Investors—Not Just Any Buyer 34:00 Take Investor Calls on Your Terms, Not Theirs37:02 The Enterprise Value BookFree GiftTo get a free copy of Peter's book, Enterprise Value: How the Best Owner-Managers Build Their Fortune, Capture Their Company's Gains, and Create Their Legacy, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/210Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/210Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most people see the tax code as a maze of restrictions, but what if it’s actually a roadmap to wealth? Today’s guest, Mark Kohler, known as “America’s #1 Small Business Tax Lawyer” reveals how the tax code is packed with hidden opportunities, waiting to be uncovered—if you know where to dig. While most CPAs are simply filing forms, Mark shows you how proactive tax strategy can turn the government into your wealth-building partner. If you’re tired of missing out on hidden tax opportunities, this conversation will give you a whole new perspective on how to maximize your wealth.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ The overlooked tax-saving strategies that can free up thousands to reinvest—and why the IRS isn’t out to get you. In fact, they can actually be your ally in building wealth.✅ Why most CPAs aren’t strategizing for you — and how to find one who will. ✅ Why Mark loves to invest in short-term rentals and industrial properties as his go-tos for cash flow and tax benefits – and how he’s using real estate profits to diversify into alt assets like crypto.Free GiftGet Justin's special report, 24 Questions to Ask When Vetting a CPA. Visit LifestyleInvestor.com/209Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/209Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We all chase success. But sometimes, even after achieving everything we set out to, something feels off. I’ve seen it happen time and again: high-achieving entrepreneurs who look around one day and think, Is this all there is?Today’s guest, Erwin McManus, knows exactly how that story goes. Erwin is the founder and lead pastor of Mosaic, an artist, and author with over one million book sales who’s worked with everyone from the NFL and the Pentagon, helping them perform at the highest level while living a balanced life. In our conversation, Erwin shares what these elite performers do to rise to the top. But more importantly, he talks about why so many still end up miserable and trapped despite their achievements. And he’s sharing his best advice to help you avoid that trap.  Plus, he gives a sneak peek into his latest book, Seven Frequencies of Communication, where he breaks down how to become a world-class communicator who leads with influence and intention.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ How Erwin transformed his life from struggling to afford college and living below the poverty line to becoming an internationally renowned speaker and consultant for powerhouse organizations like the NFL and the Pentagon.✅ The habits, mental frameworks, and decision-making strategies that separate the top 1% from everyone else, and how you can apply them to your life and business.✅ Strategies for creating wealth while staying true to your values and purpose and building a life that’s financially rewarding but also deeply fulfilling.Free GiftGet Erwin's The Communicator's Tool Kit. Visit LifestyleInvestor.com/208Show Notes: LifestyleInvestor.com/208Tax Strategy MasterclassIf you're interested in learning more about Tax Strategy and how YOU can apply 28 of the best, most effective strategies right away, check out our BRAND NEW Tax Strategy Masterclass: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/taxStrategy Session For a limited time, my team is hosting free, personalized consultation calls to learn more about your goals and determine which of our courses or masterminds will get you to the next level. To book your free session, visit LifestyleInvestor.com/consultationThe Lifestyle Investor InsiderJoin The Lifestyle Investor Insider, our brand new AI - curated newsletter - FREE for all podcast listeners for a limited time: www.lifestyleinvestor.com/insiderRate & ReviewIf you enjoyed today’s episode of The Lifestyle Investor, hit the subscribe button on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly to your device. You can also help by providing an honest rating & review.Connect with Justin DonaldFacebookYouTubeInstagramLinkedInTwitterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.