Long Shot Leaders with Michael Stein-logo

Long Shot Leaders with Michael Stein

Arts & Culture Podcasts

Long Shot Leaders tell the stories and secrets of leaders, Innovators, entrepreneurs, and various high achievers. We interview people of all walks of life and explore their struggles, shortcomings, challenges, and setbacks that ultimately lead to growth and betterment. Hard-hitting and fast-moving, connecting people from all walks of life to learn about entrepreneurship, leadership, relationships, cruise ships, and any other kind of damn ship you can think of. We talk to leaders in culture, film, regular business, show business, monkey business, you name it! digging deep to find the tools, tactics, and tricks that listeners can use. Michael Stein likes deconstructing why people do what they do and how they can be better.

Location:

United States

Description:

Long Shot Leaders tell the stories and secrets of leaders, Innovators, entrepreneurs, and various high achievers. We interview people of all walks of life and explore their struggles, shortcomings, challenges, and setbacks that ultimately lead to growth and betterment. Hard-hitting and fast-moving, connecting people from all walks of life to learn about entrepreneurship, leadership, relationships, cruise ships, and any other kind of damn ship you can think of. We talk to leaders in culture, film, regular business, show business, monkey business, you name it! digging deep to find the tools, tactics, and tricks that listeners can use. Michael Stein likes deconstructing why people do what they do and how they can be better.

Twitter:

@steinmedia

Language:

English

Contact:

3104207302


Episodes
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He introduces ION, a hyper-targeted content distribution network helping creators monetize across multiple platforms, including Apple TV and Roku, Dave Behar.

2/3/2025
Dave Behar is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for branding, technology, and business development. Growing up in Southern California, he was inspired by his father’s entrepreneurial spirit, leading him to create and sell successful ventures like Team Greek, a fraternity/sorority merchandising brand, and IDIG, a beach volleyball lifestyle company. During the tech boom, Behar moved to San Francisco, where he played a key role in Pac-10 (now Pac-12) branding and worked on early-stage Silicon Valley ventures, including Hotmail. His expertise in brand development and licensing has helped shape multiple industries. ⁣ Currently, Behar leads ION, a hyper-local, hyper-targeted content distribution network that empowers creators by integrating production, distribution, and monetization across multiple platforms, including Apple TV and Roku. He also spearheads iIntelligence, a sports-focused platform supporting a "network of champions." ⁣ With a focus on innovation, scalability, and the evolving digital landscape, Behar continues to build brands, mentor entrepreneurs, and explore the intersection of AI, media, and business growth—all while embracing a flexible, travel-friendly work lifestyle.

Duration:00:36:46

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With a deep passion for value creation, tech innovation, and mentoring others, they share insights into their diverse career, from software development to building one of the first mobile app firms in Israel, Lior Weinstein.

2/3/2025
Lior Weinstein is an entrepreneur and fractional CTO/CRO based in Atlanta, Georgia. Born and raised in Israel in an entrepreneurial family, Lior developed an early passion for business and finance, launching his first company at 14 and trading stocks as a child. After serving in the Israeli special forces and intelligence, he transitioned into affiliate marketing and technology, founding one of Israel's first mobile app development companies. This venture led to the creation of successful apps like Baby First Mobile and the founding of Epoxy, a mobile marketing automation company that sold in 2014. ⁣ Lior's entrepreneurial journey also includes buying and selling businesses, focusing on optimizing operations to drive growth. He now helps companies scale by identifying growth opportunities and streamlining processes as a fractional CTOx or Chief Revenue Officer for companies with revenues between $20 million to $100 million. Additionally, he mentors CTOx through his venture CTOx and supports anti-human trafficking initiatives. ⁣ A father and passionate about education, Lior homeschools his three children while traveling globally, spending seven to eight months per year on the road. Lior is also deeply connected to his roots in Israel, using his platform to foster understanding amidst the region's complex political landscape.

Duration:01:02:38

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Known As Fabian In SOMEWHERE IN MONTANA, Matt Drago.

1/20/2025
Matt Drago is a Los Angeles-based actor known for standout roles like Fabian in Somewhere in Montana and appearances in Disney's Counting Scars, What Would Jesus Do: The Journey Continues, and the podcast No Other Way. A versatile performer, 4th-degree black belt, and creative entrepreneur, Matt balances acting, producing, and an active lifestyle. Represented by HRI Talent and Ignite Talent Management, he is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA and Actor's Equity.

Duration:00:59:54

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Completely-blind Adaptive Athlete, Marine Veteran & Suicide Survivor, Zach Tidwell.

12/24/2024
Zach Tidwell is a Marine Corps veteran and suicide survivor who, after a self-inflicted gunshot wound left him blind and deaf in one ear, found a renewed perspective on life. Now 28, he uses his story of resilience to inspire others, proving that even the darkest moments can lead to incredible growth. In addition to sharing his journey, Zach founded a software company focused on creating inclusive technology accessible to everyone. He is passionate about breaking barriers and advocating for accessibility in the tech world. Zach actively pursues adventurous activities like skiing, rock climbing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, defying expectations for people with disabilities. His message centers on the power of perseverance, mental health awareness, and the ability to achieve despite any challenges.

Duration:00:50:30

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Award winning broadcaster, best-selling author & speaker, Bruce Whitfield.

12/4/2024
Bruce Whitfield empowers leaders to cut through the noise of the news cycle and focus on what truly drives long-term growth and sustainability. With a knack for delivering impactful, memorable narratives, he transforms the way audiences consume and engage with information. Over two decades, Whitfield has analyzed ambitious companies and their leaders, conducting over 50,000 interviews with top decision-makers.

Duration:00:59:28

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Founder of Real Estate Freedom Formula, Cody Hofhine

12/2/2024
Cody Hofhine, founder of Real Estate Freedom Formula and co-founder of Utah Sell Now, is a successful real estate investor, mentor, and high-performance coach recognized as a multiple Inc. 5000 business owner. Using his sales expertise, he built a 7-figure real estate business rooted in clarity, energy, and productivity. Cody has coached many to succeed in real estate and reach peak performance through his training and coaching programs.

Duration:00:41:07

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Trusted Advisor & Faith-Based Creator. Making Content Creation Easy & Effective, David Griffiths

11/29/2024
David Griffiths uses music and media to share the Gospel, inspiring his online community to transform their lives for the better. A talented gospel recording artist, minister, and coach, David uplifts others through prayer, song, strategy, and inspiration. With over 1.4 million followers across TikTok and Instagram, David is a leading voice in faith-based content creation and runs Content Creating Academy, helping Christian creators expand their reach.

Duration:00:46:17

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Twice named to The Phoenix Titan 100, he’s a leader who has mastered the art of detail and innovation in construction, Brad Leavitt.

11/22/2024
Building Success. Journey from Dreams to Construction Mastery. Brad Leavitt knows what it takes to deliver excellence. Under his guidance, AFT Construction earned a spot on the Inc 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing companies—a testament to Brad’s vision and relentless drive. Their projects shine in top publications like Fine Homebuilding and Luxe Interior Design, where they’ve been multiple-time Gold List winners. Brad’s work isn’t just construction—it’s creating lasting legacies.

Duration:00:32:51

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Developing himself from being bullied, abused and traumatized into a Licensed Professional Counselor, Jon Labman.

11/15/2024
Jonathan Labman was born in Trenton, New Jersey in the United States in 1955. He grew up in Pennsylvania, in Trenton suburbs. At 16, he won a scholarship to an international high school called the United World College of the Atlantic, in South Wales, UK, where he completed an International Baccalaureate degree. Jonathan has been fundamentally interested in human well-being, spirituality and psychology since the age of 15. During and after completing university at Covenant College, Jonathan lived in a Christian fundamentalist commune for several months in Santa Barbara California (1974), and an evangelical Christian co-operative community that devolved into a cult from 1978-1984. Following these experiences, he studied acting, movement, dance and voice in New York. Disillusioned with egotism, he turned to working with people in a healing capacity: first as a Licensed Massage Therapist, then Energetic and Psychic Healing, followed by a graduate degree in Counseling Psychology, and training as a Yoga teacher (500 hour certification). Jonathan has worked as a professional counselor since 2000. Jonathan has enjoyed the transition into Non-Dual Awareness, being spiritually Awake since July of 2001. He now teaches clients how to work with psychological distress and move towards spiritual awakening. He currently has four published books: An Ordinary Being (memoir); Simply Awake: Spiritual Enlightenment, the Simplest Thing; Taming the Three-Ring Circus of Your Mind; and Being Human and Waking Up: a guide for psychotherapy clients and enlightenment students (September 2023). He sees clients in person and in small groups, in the Doylestown, Pennsylvania area. https://www.simplyawake.com for more information.

Duration:00:49:30

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Unraveling history and myths, the battle for truth about Israel and Zionism with Laureen Lipsky.

11/8/2024
Laureen Lipsky is the CEO and Founder of Taking Back the Narrative, a Zionist education initiative. Her unique background includes a 20-year period of being anti-Israel, influenced by media and certain Jewish organizations using antisemitic language. In 2014, her views shifted after she was shocked by anti-Israel narratives on CNN during the first Hamas war. This sparked her commitment to learning and teaching accurate Jewish history, non-antisemitic terminology, and the importance of Israel as the Jewish homeland. Laureen’s op-eds have appeared in outlets like The Federalist, American Thinker, and JNS. Her organization, Taking Back the Narrative, is the culmination of her work since 2014, and she has been recognized as a leading voice in Zionist education.

Duration:01:10:19

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From cybersecurity expert to pioneer in emotional intelligence and cybersecurity innovation, a top performer to true leader, Christian Espinosa.

11/4/2024
Christian Espinosa is a cybersecurity expert, bestselling author, and founder of Blue Goat Cyber. With a background in the U.S. Air Force, he combines his technical skills with emotional intelligence to offer human-centered cybersecurity solutions that help organizations stay protected. Early in his career, Christian focused on being "the smartest person in the room," but he soon recognized the importance of collaboration and empathy. His book, The Smartest Person in the Room, guides leaders in balancing high IQ with emotional intelligence to strengthen team dynamics. Beyond cybersecurity, Christian is an adventurer, competing in Ironman triathlons, climbing mountains, and practicing survival skills. He now coaches technical professionals to develop soft skills, find balance, and build a sense of belonging in their careers.

Duration:00:25:34

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A disaster preparedness expert shares his inspiring journey from lifeguard and EMT to leading a successful disaster preparedness company with innovative challenges like a record-breaking CPR marathon, Patrick Hardy.

11/1/2024
Patrick Hardy is a disaster preparedness expert from Mission Viejo, California, whose career began as a lifeguard and EMT. After witnessing the chaos of Hurricane Katrina, he became dedicated to emergency planning, even writing to Louisiana's governor, which led to a position with the state’s Homeland Security team. This experience highlighted the need for disaster resilience in small businesses, inspiring him to establish a company that offers Fortune 500-level disaster preparedness to smaller enterprises. His innovative approach earned him funding through a British "Dragon’s Den" pitch, and he successfully led his company for 15 years. ⁣ Now focusing on content creation, Patrick aims to empower communities through engaging disaster challenges, including a record-breaking CPR marathon and a cat shelter evacuation. As a Guinness World Record holder for pushups with weighted vests, he recently performed over 100,000 CPR compressions on a mannequin in 28 hours to raise awareness about CPR's importance. ⁣ Patrick plans to undertake 100 unique CPR challenges worldwide to demonstrate the feasibility of CPR in extreme conditions, such as hurricane-force winds and subzero temperatures. With a mission to make CPR appealing and accessible, he invites people to follow his journey on his website and YouTube channel, where he shares engaging content and encourages community participation in disaster preparedness.

Duration:00:31:58

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Born without arms has transformed her life into an inspiring story of adaptability and strength from mastering daily tasks with her feet to piloting a custom-built plane she calls the “Impossible Airplane,” Jessica Cox.

10/30/2024
Jessica Cox, born without arms, has turned her life into a testament to adaptability, resilience, and the power of possibility. Growing up in Arizona, she faced unique challenges but developed remarkable strength and dexterity in her legs, allowing her to live independently and accomplish tasks typically done with hands. ⁣ Despite physical obstacles, Jessica found social acceptance often more difficult, but she transformed these experiences into fuel for her inspiring career as a motivational speaker. Jessica has traveled to 29 countries, sharing her story to encourage others to embrace challenges and find strength in adaptability. As an advocate for disability empowerment, she also leads Right Footed, a nonprofit mentoring children with similar disabilities. ⁣ Jessica’s current project, the “Impossible Airplane”—a plane designed to be flown using feet alone—symbolizes her mission to redefine possibilities. She hopes to fly it over the 2028 Summer Olympics, inspiring others to see beyond physical limitations. Discover more at jessicacox.com and theimpossibleairplane.com.

Duration:00:24:38

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His life story, confronting the challenging topic of suicide and mental health and his struggles with identity and self-worth, exacerbated by injuries and the pressures of social media, leading to a suicide attempt at 16, Pat Broe.

10/28/2024
Pat Broe is a speaker and author who candidly shares his journey through the complexities of mental health, identity, and resilience. Growing up as a military child, Pat moved frequently across the United States, which shaped his understanding of family dynamics and personal struggles. His mother, a special education teacher, dedicated herself to supporting his brother, who has autism, while his father transitioned from military service to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, emphasizing the value of hard work and stability. Pat's experiences during his youth were marked by the pressure to fit in, leading him to adopt a false persona that masked his internal conflicts. Struggling with mental health issues, exacerbated by injuries and the reliance on opioid pain medication, Pat faced multiple panic attacks and a suicide attempt at 16. This pivotal moment led him to take responsibility for his well-being and seek help, ultimately igniting a profound personal transformation. In his journey toward healing, Pat emphasizes the importance of community, self-acceptance, and proactive engagement in mental health. His story gained traction when he published an article detailing his struggles, which resonated with many and sparked discussions about the mental health challenges faced by today’s youth. This led him to write his book, The Real Confident U, aimed at fostering understanding and resilience among readers. Pat’s message encourages openness about mental health and personal development, advocating for practices that promote gratitude and well-being. He continues to inspire others through speaking engagements and podcasts, sharing insights from his journey to help those grappling with their own struggles.

Duration:00:39:37

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A recruiter and coach as she shares her transformative journey through the pandemic that inspired her book Thriving After 40, Jolie Downs.

10/25/2024
Jolie Downs is a dynamic recruiter, coach, and author known for her compelling insights into personal growth and resilience. Her experiences during the pandemic inspired her to write Thriving After 40, a transformative book that explores universal principles for leading a fulfilling life. Originally focused on addressing ageism, Jolie shifted her perspective to uncover common traits of success through interviews with individuals who have faced adversity and emerged stronger. In her work, Jolie emphasizes the importance of setting clear personal goals, cultivating gratitude, and reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. She advocates for the philosophy of "Amor Fati," or loving one’s fate, encouraging others to embrace life’s realities and make empowering choices. Her book features poignant stories, including that of a woman with incurable cancer who chose to prioritize a meaningful life over despair, illustrating the power of resilience. In addition to her writing, Jolie hosts a podcast where she shares her journey and insights. She is also the founder of Paradigm Staffing, where she combines her expertise in recruitment with her passion for coaching. Jolie is currently developing a two-month group coaching program set to launch in early 2025, focusing on practical applications of personal development principles. As she progresses in her endeavors, Jolie is working on an audiobook version of Thriving After 40, set for release in January 2025, aiming to deliver the material with the impactful style of renowned self-help figures. She openly discusses her experiences with imposter syndrome, emphasizing that such barriers should not deter individuals from pursuing their goals. Jolie Downs remains an accessible and engaging presence on social media, including LinkedIn and Instagram, and her book is available on Amazon and soon on iBooks. Through her work, Jolie aims to inspire others to embrace their unique journeys and foster a mindset of gratitude and positivity.

Duration:00:45:31

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He is the CrossFit champion shares his remarkable journey from a sports-loving childhood to becoming a successful gym owner and fitness entrepreneur, Jason Khalipa.

10/23/2024
Jason Khalipa is a renowned CrossFit champion, successful gym owner, and passionate fitness entrepreneur, hailing from San Jose, California. His athletic journey began in childhood, engaging in various sports, including BMX racing and football, before working at a gym as a teenager. After winning the CrossFit Games, Khalipa transitioned into the world of fitness entrepreneurship, opening multiple gyms and partnering with corporate wellness programs for major companies like Twitter and GoPro. Khalipa's philosophy emphasizes pushing physical limits for personal growth, which he continues to embody through pursuits like jiu-jitsu and tactical games. He promotes an "AMRAP Mentality"—"As Many Reps As Possible"—encouraging others to be fully present and focused in their lives. Beyond fitness, Khalipa values the importance of relationships, particularly with his high school sweetheart, who has been a crucial source of support throughout his career. Committed to community impact, Khalipa hosts free men's workouts and inspires fathers to prioritize fitness for the sake of their families. He believes in the power of exercise to enhance both mental and physical well-being, advocating for strong relationships and finding a supportive tribe. Khalipa continues to share his insights through his podcast, focusing on fitness, fatherhood, and personal growth, motivating others to engage in active lifestyles.

Duration:00:30:52

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His incredible journey from a rock musician to the founder of a successful full-service marketing agency, Barry Labov.

10/21/2024
Barry Labov is a former rock musician turned successful business owner and marketing expert. Originally from Philadelphia, Barry started his career producing jingles before transitioning into the business world following his father's passing. He founded a small jingle company that grew into a renowned full-service marketing agency, working with high-profile brands like Volkswagen and Harley Davidson. Labov is known for his innovative five-step process to help companies differentiate their brands, focusing on rallying employees and effectively communicating to the market. His book, The Power of Differentiation, became a #1 new marketing book on Amazon, offering practical strategies for business growth and brand success. Despite challenges like the Great Recession and pandemic, Barry continues to work with diverse clients while sharing insights on entrepreneurship and business leadership.

Duration:00:23:41

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Her authentic journey into the field of archaeology, reflecting on her beginnings in Philadelphia where a passion for history and fossils ignited at the young age of 12, Jodi Magness.

10/18/2024
Jodi Magness is a prominent archaeologist known for her extensive research in the Holy Land. Growing up in Philadelphia without a background in archaeology, Jodi discovered her passion for the field at the age of 12, inspired by a history teacher and her childhood interests in fossils and dinosaurs. After moving to Miami, she participated in a transformative study tour in Israel in 1972, which deepened her love for the country. ⁣ Jodi pursued her education at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she double-majored in archaeology and general history, despite facing challenges due to the intensive curriculum in Hebrew. Her studies coincided with significant historical events, including the Yom Kippur War, shaping her perspective on the region's complex history. After completing her BA, she initially considered law school but decided to stay in Israel, eventually working as a guide at the Ngedi Field School near the Dead Sea. She later pursued a PhD in classical archaeology at the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on ancient pottery from Jerusalem. ⁣ Jodi has made significant contributions to archaeology, particularly through her excavations at the Huqoq site in Galilee, where she uncovered a monumental synagogue featuring stunning mosaics. Throughout her career, she has emphasized the scientific nature of archaeology, advocating for its role in understanding human history through material remains. Jodi continues to teach and conduct research, focusing on publishing her findings from over a decade of work at Huqoq, and remains dedicated to her mission of educating others about the rich history of the Holy Land.

Duration:01:14:57

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A life journey beginning with his experience in foster care and eventual adoption into a white family and embraced "dark work" to foster personal growth and reconciliation, Anthony Truck.

10/16/2024
Anthony Trucks is a dynamic speaker, author, and personal development coach known for his remarkable journey from foster care to success. Abandoned at the age of three and moving between six homes before being adopted at 14, Anthony faced significant challenges, including feeling out of place as the only Black child in his adoptive family. Despite early struggles with football, he dedicated himself to the sport, earning a college scholarship and a brief career in the NFL, which was cut short by injuries. Following a difficult period marked by personal loss and divorce, Anthony embraced what he calls "dark work," a process of self-improvement that led to personal growth and reconciliation with his ex-wife. Now remarried and a devoted father, he travels the world to inspire others to develop strong identities and overcome obstacles through resilience and hard work. Anthony emphasizes the importance of ownership in personal development and helps clients cultivate their "dominators' identities" through an intentional 16-week program. He focuses on self-governance and transformation, guiding individuals to face their challenges and create healthier habits. With a passion for sharing his insights, Anthony encourages others to appreciate the journey of personal growth and the significance of meaningful relationships over material success.

Duration:00:27:42

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A South African adventurer, shares her extraordinary life living among wildlife, reflecting on her upbringing during apartheid and the financial struggles that fueled her drive for independence, Ann Wilson.

10/14/2024
Ann Wilson is a South African who leads a unique lifestyle immersed in the wild, sharing her experiences through engaging videos. Her home features an eight-foot-high outdoor tub where giraffes and elephants occasionally come to drink, providing a glimpse into her extraordinary surroundings. As winter settles in, she humorously recounts the mischief caused by roaming elephants, which she incorporates into her maintenance budget. Reflecting on her journey, Ann feels privileged to live in such a vibrant environment, though she acknowledges the hard work that has gone into achieving her dream. ⁣ Growing up as the fifth of six children in a typical middle-class South African family during the height of apartheid, Ann was shaped by the struggles of her upbringing. Her father worked tirelessly to support the family, while her mother instilled the value of education as a pathway to success. Witnessing societal injustices fueled Ann's activism during her university years, where she became involved in the anti-apartheid movement. ⁣ Throughout her life, Ann has lived in various parts of the world, but she cherishes her life in South Africa, often highlighting the laid-back, positive attitudes of her friends. Her journey towards financial independence and security began after witnessing her mother’s challenges following their father's passing, which motivated Ann to seek a stable career in civil engineering. However, her quest for true financial freedom led her to explore unconventional paths, including real estate and investing. Today, Ann is not only a wildlife enthusiast but also a passionate advocate for conservation and community empowerment. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of gratitude and living a fulfilling life that goes beyond mere financial success.

Duration:00:51:35