The Proven Entrepreneur
Podetize
It can feel lonely to be an entrepreneur. With so much on your plate, it is easy to lose focus because of all the details. At times your personal, family &/or professional lives can feel like they are falling off the tracks. That's why it is so important to learn from those ahead of you and design an efficient business roadmap for success. Learning from stories is one of the easiest and most powerful strategies for growth.
Join Don Williams as he sits down with world-class experts to help you become The Proven Entrepreneur. Build your blueprint, craft a strategy and then act for business success.
This podcast features inspiring, candid stories from real-life entrepreneurs. These proven entrepreneurs detail how they achieved success with clear, easy advice that anyone can emulate. Get motivated by hardworking individuals who reveal secrets to making twice the money in half the time. Receive their actionable tips that reduce overwhelm, stress, and depression. Understand that as a proven entrepreneur you with win or you learn and learning is just slower winning.
These conversations include the failures and losses guests encountered throughout their careers. Hear vulnerable discussions about the challenges they had to overcome as rising entrepreneurs. Discover how they turned roadblocks into their advantage. By learning how to utilize the lowest points of your business, you can create a positive shift in your own success-building story.
Don Williams is the Proven Entrepreneur who guides you in this incredible journey. He brings to the podcast the principles he learned over the past 30 years. At the young age of 19, Don became the top salesperson in the United States. In less than a year, he rose as the top sales manager in the country out of 40 offices. Don started his first company at 26 years old, and though he made many mistakes he kept learning and courageously faced every risk. After crafting his roadmap to success, Don founded a dozen business ventures.
Don has worked with more than half of Fortune 500 companies on marketing sales and service strategy execution. He is also involved with Entrepreneurs' Organization, a non-profit peer network of over 16,000 entrepreneurs worldwide. Many businesses seek Don's help in developing high-performing sales operations. His expertise is invaluable in giving birth to an entire community of business leaders.
Many entrepreneurs desire connection. And an authentic connection with other entrepreneurs, can lead to transformational change. All entrepreneurs think they are "different", but the truth is entrepreneurs are very much alike. Entrepreneurs want to know what their fellow entrepreneurs feel and think when running their businesses. Entrepreneurs want to know how their peers balance work, life and family. They want to affirm if they are on the right track or doing something wrong. There is no better way to elevate your entrepreneurship career than by learning from those who have “been there and done that”. Every success story highlighted in this podcast exudes inspiration and motivation to keep moving forward.
Tuning into these stories is a huge first step towards the success you desire. Receive brand-new guidance every week and finally take hold of your business goals in no time.
Join Don Williams in dissecting stories of success and failure. Unravel the nuggets of wisdom shared by proven entrepreneurs to bring your business to its highest potential. The life of an entrepreneur may be extremely hectic and pressuring. With the right advice and guidance, nothing can stop you from becoming a strong business leader ready to take on anything.
Become The Proven Entrepreneur today! Listen to the podcast at https://provenentrepreneurshow.com.
Location:
United States
Description:
It can feel lonely to be an entrepreneur. With so much on your plate, it is easy to lose focus because of all the details. At times your personal, family &/or professional lives can feel like they are falling off the tracks. That's why it is so important to learn from those ahead of you and design an efficient business roadmap for success. Learning from stories is one of the easiest and most powerful strategies for growth. Join Don Williams as he sits down with world-class experts to help you become The Proven Entrepreneur. Build your blueprint, craft a strategy and then act for business success. This podcast features inspiring, candid stories from real-life entrepreneurs. These proven entrepreneurs detail how they achieved success with clear, easy advice that anyone can emulate. Get motivated by hardworking individuals who reveal secrets to making twice the money in half the time. Receive their actionable tips that reduce overwhelm, stress, and depression. Understand that as a proven entrepreneur you with win or you learn and learning is just slower winning. These conversations include the failures and losses guests encountered throughout their careers. Hear vulnerable discussions about the challenges they had to overcome as rising entrepreneurs. Discover how they turned roadblocks into their advantage. By learning how to utilize the lowest points of your business, you can create a positive shift in your own success-building story. Don Williams is the Proven Entrepreneur who guides you in this incredible journey. He brings to the podcast the principles he learned over the past 30 years. At the young age of 19, Don became the top salesperson in the United States. In less than a year, he rose as the top sales manager in the country out of 40 offices. Don started his first company at 26 years old, and though he made many mistakes he kept learning and courageously faced every risk. After crafting his roadmap to success, Don founded a dozen business ventures. Don has worked with more than half of Fortune 500 companies on marketing sales and service strategy execution. He is also involved with Entrepreneurs' Organization, a non-profit peer network of over 16,000 entrepreneurs worldwide. Many businesses seek Don's help in developing high-performing sales operations. His expertise is invaluable in giving birth to an entire community of business leaders. Many entrepreneurs desire connection. And an authentic connection with other entrepreneurs, can lead to transformational change. All entrepreneurs think they are "different", but the truth is entrepreneurs are very much alike. Entrepreneurs want to know what their fellow entrepreneurs feel and think when running their businesses. Entrepreneurs want to know how their peers balance work, life and family. They want to affirm if they are on the right track or doing something wrong. There is no better way to elevate your entrepreneurship career than by learning from those who have “been there and done that”. Every success story highlighted in this podcast exudes inspiration and motivation to keep moving forward. Tuning into these stories is a huge first step towards the success you desire. Receive brand-new guidance every week and finally take hold of your business goals in no time. Join Don Williams in dissecting stories of success and failure. Unravel the nuggets of wisdom shared by proven entrepreneurs to bring your business to its highest potential. The life of an entrepreneur may be extremely hectic and pressuring. With the right advice and guidance, nothing can stop you from becoming a strong business leader ready to take on anything. Become The Proven Entrepreneur today! Listen to the podcast at https://provenentrepreneurshow.com.
Language:
English
Episodes
Stop Posting—Start Selling: LinkedIn AI Lead Generation & Social Selling Secrets with Joe Apfelbaum
9/9/2025
Welcome! Before you hit play, let me ask you this: What would your business look like if LinkedIn stopped being a noisy feed and started acting like your smartest sales partner? Imagine waking up to a calendar filled with qualified calls—not because you spent hours posting and praying, but because a system quietly worked behind the scenes, turning connections into conversations. That’s the world we’re stepping into today—a world where strategy beats hustle, and AI becomes more than a tool; it becomes your co-pilot for growth.
In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, Joe Apfelbaum, founder of evyAI, opens up about a challenge every entrepreneur knows too well: do you keep grinding endlessly, or is there a smarter way to build your pipeline?
You’ll hear how one simple mindset shift—seeing AI as a true business partner—can flip scattered hustle into real momentum that actually shows up on your calendar. This conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
Key highlights:
If you’ve ever thought, “I’m posting, but where are the calls?”—this story nudges you toward the answer, then lets the full playbook unfold in your ears. Hit play and follow the breadcrumbs.
Duration:00:22:37
LinkedIn Mastery & Entrepreneurial Grit with Al Kushner
9/2/2025
Welcome to a conversation that goes far beyond the surface of social media strategy—this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show is a masterclass in entrepreneurial evolution, personal branding, and the untapped power of LinkedIn. Hosted by Don Williams, this episode features Al Kushner, a LinkedIn pioneer, award-winning author, and seasoned entrepreneur who’s been shaping digital networking since the platform’s earliest days.
If you’ve ever felt LinkedIn was “just another social media site,” prepare to have that myth shattered. Al Kushner shares how LinkedIn has become a cornerstone for B2B growth, personal branding, and thought leadership. From optimizing your profile to building meaningful connections, this episode offers a roadmap for professionals who want to stand out—not just show up. You’ll hear how Al helps clients transform their LinkedIn presence into a magnet for opportunity, and why skipping profile optimization is like showing up to a networking event in pajamas.
But this isn’t just about tactics—it’s about the mindset behind success. Al opens up about his entrepreneurial beginnings in the insurance industry, the grind of cold-calling, and the unexpected challenges of publishing his first book. His story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of positioning yourself as a thought leader. Whether you're a solopreneur or scaling a team, his insights on delegation, focus, and operating in your “zone of magnificence” will resonate deeply.
You’ll also get a glimpse into the future of LinkedIn—where it’s headed, why it’s still growing, and how Microsoft’s backing is shaping its evolution. Al doesn’t just talk trends; he lives them. And with over 10 books under his belt, including The AI LinkedIn Advantage, he’s proof that content creation and credibility go hand in hand.
So if you're ready to rethink your digital presence, elevate your entrepreneurial game, and learn from someone who’s been there, done that, and written the book on it—this episode is your next listen. Tune in and discover how to turn your LinkedIn profile into a legacy-building asset.
Listen now to discover how to turn your LinkedIn presence into a powerful business asset—and why your legacy might just begin with a book.
Entities Mentioned:
LinkedInMicrosoftMark CubanThe AI LinkedIn AdvantageLinkVantage.comAmazon, Barnes & Noble, Spotify, Audible
Duration:00:16:07
From Soviet Roots to Entrepreneurial Resilience – Vladimir Gendelman on The Proven Entrepreneur Show
8/26/2025
In this gripping episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams welcomes back a familiar voice—Vladimir Gendelman, founder of CompanyFolders.com. But this isn’t just a business chat. It’s a journey that begins in the gray, uniform streets of the Soviet Union and unfolds into the vibrant, unpredictable world of American entrepreneurship. Vladimir’s story isn’t just about building a company—it’s about rediscovering identity, embracing freedom, and learning how to stand out in a world that once demanded conformity.
As Vladimir recounts his early days in Ukraine, listeners are transported to a time when choices were few and individuality was suppressed. His move to the U.S. as a teenager brought culture shock wrapped in abundance—aisles of cheese, colorful clothing, and the freedom to express. But it wasn’t just the variety that changed him—it was the realization that in America, you could build something entirely your own. That realization sparked the birth of CompanyFolders.com, a business born from a single customer request and a gap in the market no one else saw.
The conversation takes a dramatic turn as Vladimir opens up about a near-fatal mistake—an SEO strategy that once catapulted his site to the top of Google, only to be penalized and buried when algorithms evolved. The fallout was brutal: traffic plummeted, bankruptcy loomed, and even weekend sushi outings with his daughter became luxuries. But what followed was a masterclass in resilience. With grit, humility, and a loyal team, Vladimir rebuilt his company from the ground up—this time, with integrity and a foundation that could weather any storm.
Beyond business, this episode explores the human side of entrepreneurship. Vladimir shares his philosophy on authenticity, the power of making others feel seen, and the importance of listening with intent. His advice isn’t just for entrepreneurs—it’s for anyone who wants to lead with heart and leave a legacy that lasts. From co-authoring a book on gratitude with his wife Janet to mentoring future generations, Vladimir’s story is a testament to the impact of kindness, courage, and connection.
If you’re looking for more than just business tips—if you crave a story that stirs your soul and sharpens your mind—this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how one man’s journey from Soviet silence to entrepreneurial voice can inspire your own path to purpose. But be warned: once you start listening, you won’t want to stop.
Topics Discussed:
Entities Mentioned:
Gratitude Stories from Our Hearts
Whether you're a startup founder, digital marketer, or someone seeking inspiration from real-world entrepreneurial grit, this episode delivers valuable lessons wrapped in a heartfelt narrative.
🎧 Tune in now to discover how one man’s journey from gray Soviet streets to vibrant American business success can inspire your own path forward.
Duration:00:24:50
AI Secrets Every Entrepreneur Must Know: Speed to Lead, Content Hacks & Marketing Myths
8/19/2025
What if the secret to scaling your business wasn’t just hustle—but harnessing the right technology at the right time? In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams welcomes UK-based entrepreneur and AI innovator Jerry Jariwalla for a deep dive into how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing business growth, lead generation, and digital marketing.
Jerry’s journey is anything but ordinary. From building one of the UK’s largest locksmith companies to launching AI Builders, he’s mastered the art of solving real-world problems with smart, scalable AI solutions. This episode explores the powerful concept of Speed to Lead—an AI-driven system that ensures businesses never miss a sales opportunity by responding to inquiries instantly. Whether you're in HVAC, plumbing, law, or accounting, Jerry explains why fast lead response is no longer optional—it's essential.
Listeners will also uncover the truth behind common online marketing myths, learn how to use AI to create 120+ pieces of content per month, and discover how to rebuild a seven-figure business with just a $20/month AI subscription. Jerry shares practical strategies for prompt engineering, content repurposing, and AI-powered customer engagement, making this episode a goldmine for entrepreneurs, marketers, and business owners.
Entities mentioned include AI Builders, OpenAI, Anthropic, Claude, DeepSeek, and platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok. The conversation also touches on ethical concerns and real-world failures in AI marketing, offering a balanced perspective on the risks and rewards of this fast-evolving technology.
If you're looking to future-proof your business, boost your digital presence, and learn how to turn AI into your competitive advantage, this episode is your blueprint. Tune in and discover how to transform attention into action—and leads into loyal customers.
Duration:00:25:18
Scaling Healthcare with Data, Empathy & Grit — Jason Bryll’s Entrepreneurial Journey
8/12/2025
What does it take to build a thriving healthcare data analytics company from scratch—without investors, without a team, and without a fancy office?
In this powerful episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Jason Bryll, founder and CEO of Parable Associates, to unpack the real story behind scaling a healthcare startup that’s now helping hundreds of providers streamline operations, improve cash flow, and expand access to care.
Jason’s journey didn’t begin with a business plan or a boardroom. It started in a closet-sized home office, armed with nothing but a laptop, a vision, and a deep empathy for the healthcare industry—an empathy rooted in his own experiences as a patient. From battling severe acne in childhood to undergoing LASIK surgery, Jason’s personal health challenges shaped his mission: to empower providers with better data so they can deliver better care.
But this episode isn’t just about data. It’s about resilience, relationships, and the real cost of growth.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
This episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurial strategy, healthcare innovation, and human-centered leadership. It’s packed with real-world insights for founders, executives, and anyone navigating the complex world of healthcare business.
Whether you're building a startup, scaling a service-based business, or just curious about how data can drive meaningful change in healthcare, this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to take action.
This podcast is perfect for Entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, startup founders, business strategists, and anyone who believes in building with purpose.
Listen now and discover how one entrepreneur turned a closet office into a company that’s changing lives—one data point at a time.
Duration:00:28:24
30 Years to Overnight Success: Jeff Seder’s Entrepreneurial Journey | Proven Entrepreneur Podcast
7/9/2025
What if the secret to winning the Kentucky Derby wasn’t pedigree or price—but poop, persistence, and a PhD-level understanding of biomechanics?
Meet Jeff Seder, a Harvard-educated misfit who walked away from Wall Street and into the stables—armed not with a saddle, but with science. In this unforgettable episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams uncovers the wild, brilliant, and often hilarious journey of the man who turned the horse racing world upside down.
Jeff didn’t just challenge the status quo—he obliterated it. While the industry obsessed over bloodlines and million-dollar studs, Jeff was measuring heart size, stride efficiency, and yes, even the weight of horse poop. Laughed out of rooms and dismissed as a madman, he spent 30 years building a data empire in secret—until one day, he predicted a Triple Crown winner and proved them all wrong.
This episode is more than a story about horses. It’s about grit, innovation, and the kind of entrepreneurial madness that changes industries. You’ll hear how Jeff:
Built a 48-dimensional AI model before “AI” was cool
Invented medical devices in a cornfield with MIT dropouts
Turned a $155K horse into a $50 million legend
Learned the hard way that success takes decades—and a little chaos
Whether you're a founder, a dreamer, or just someone who loves a good underdog story, this episode will leave you inspired, entertained, and maybe even a little obsessed with horse racing.
Featuring:
Listen now and discover how data, doubt, and dogged determination can change everything.
Duration:00:29:21
Gregory Shepard — 12 Startups, 12 Exits, and the Science of Startup Success
7/1/2025
Welcome to another riveting episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, hosted by the ever-curious and seasoned entrepreneur Don Williams. With nearly four decades of entrepreneurial grit under his belt, Don brings listeners into the minds of those who’ve not only dared to dream but dared to do — and do it exceptionally well.
In this episode, Don sits down with a guest whose resume reads like a startup fairy tale — but with all the grit, grind, and gut-wrenching moments that make it real. Meet Gregory Shepard: Fulbright Scholar, TEDx speaker, author of The Startup Lifecycle, and the rare entrepreneur who’s built and sold 12 companies — each one a success story in its own right.
But this isn’t just a highlight reel. Gregory opens up about the soul-crushing detour into politics, the sleepless nights wondering how to make payroll, and the raw truth behind why most startups fail — even when they have a great product. He shares how a five-year, $500,000 research project led to the creation of Startup Science, a platform designed to fix the fragmented startup ecosystem and help founders avoid the very pitfalls he once faced.
As the conversation unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey through the startup lifecycle — not the one you read in textbooks, but the one forged in the trenches. Gregory challenges conventional wisdom, especially the advice founders often receive from investors. He introduces the concept of the Ideal Acquirer Profile (IAP), a game-changing strategy that flips the traditional startup model on its head: build your company with the buyer in mind from day one.
From the dangers of overvaluation to the hidden costs of premature scaling, Gregory breaks down the anatomy of failure — and more importantly, how to avoid it. He speaks candidly about being neurodivergent, growing up in poverty, and how those experiences shaped his resilience and perspective as a founder.
This episode isn’t just for entrepreneurs — it’s for anyone who’s ever faced a mountain and wondered if they had what it takes to climb it. Gregory Shepard doesn’t just offer advice; he offers a roadmap, forged in fire, for how to build something that lasts — and how to walk away from it with your head held high.
So grab your headphones, settle in, and prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about startups. Because this isn’t just another business podcast — it’s a masterclass in entrepreneurial survival.
Duration:00:28:21
Nicole Donnelly – From Licorice Dispensers to AI Wellness: A Journey of Grit, Growth & Innovation
6/25/2025
Welcome to another episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, where we dive deep into the real stories behind the world’s most resilient and innovative business minds. I’m your host, Don Williams—entrepreneur, author, and eternal optimist—and today, I’m thrilled to introduce a guest who embodies the spirit of invention, perseverance, and purpose-driven innovation.
Joining us from Vancouver, Canada, is Nicole Donnelly—founder of AI Smart Ventures, a serial entrepreneur, and a passionate advocate for using artificial intelligence to improve lives. But Nicole’s story doesn’t begin in a boardroom or a tech lab. It begins in a mobile home on a dusty desert road, where a young girl with a wild imagination crafted licorice dispensers and left them in neighbors’ mailboxes, believing—wholeheartedly—that she could make their lives better.
That same spirit of service and creativity has carried Nicole through decades of entrepreneurship, from selling her first company during the 2008 financial crisis to building AI-powered wellness tools that help women manage perimenopause and hormonal health. In this episode, Nicole opens up about the emotional toll of being sued by her own family, the lessons she learned about hiring and trusting the wrong people, and how she rebuilt her business—and her relationships—one step at a time.
We explore the power of automation not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a system of care. Nicole shares how she created “Charlie,” an AI agent trained on women’s health data that offers personalized supplement, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations based on the user’s cycle. She explains how AI can be used to automate empathy, scale support, and even remind you when it’s time to eat black beans to reduce PMS symptoms.
But this episode isn’t just about tech—it’s about trust, trauma, and transformation. Nicole and I discuss the psychological weight of entrepreneurship, the importance of starting before you’re ready, and why testing your idea with real paying customers is more valuable than any business plan. We also talk about the darker side of AI—how it can be misused—and why Nicole would ban its use in human trafficking and exploitation if she could.
You’ll also hear about tools like StrengthsFinder, Kolbe, and Culture Index, and how Nicole uses them to build stronger, more aligned teams. We touch on the power of mindset, the importance of asking AI first, and how even something as simple as automating your inbox can save you hours each week.
Whether you’re a founder, a dreamer, or someone navigating the messy middle of building something meaningful, this episode will speak to your heart and your hustle. Nicole’s story is a reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about healing, growing, and daring to believe that your ideas can change lives.
🔗 Mentioned in this episode:
Duration:00:21:37
The Solopreneur’s Path to $15K/Month with Moe Choice - Proven Strategy
6/17/2025
Welcome, podcast lovers and entrepreneurial minds!
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build a thriving business on your own terms—without investors, employees, or even a traditional office—this episode is your front-row seat to the truth behind the solopreneur journey.
In this episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with the one and only Moe Choice, a fiercely independent solopreneur who walked away from a successful business empire in Dubai to rebuild from scratch—on his own terms. What drives someone to leave behind wealth, reputation, and comfort? What does freedom really mean when you're building a business solo?
Topics Discussed:
This isn’t just another entrepreneur mindset podcast—it’s a raw, real, and refreshingly honest look at what it takes to succeed as a solopreneur in 2025. Whether you're figuring out how to start as a solopreneur, looking to master LinkedIn for solopreneurs, or searching for the best solopreneur podcasts to fuel your journey, this episode delivers.
Ask yourself:
If these questions hit home, hit play. This is the personal branding podcast episode you didn’t know you needed.
Tune in now and discover how to build a business that’s profitable, purposeful, and 100% yours.
Visit our websites to learn more: https://provenentrepreneurshow.com/
Duration:00:19:49
How Ethan King Doubled His Business With AI & Automation | The Future of Entrepreneurship
6/10/2025
What if the secret to scaling your business wasn’t working harder—but automating smarter?
In this high-energy and insight-packed episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams welcomes back visionary entrepreneur Ethan King for a conversation that bridges creativity, technology, and the future of work. Ethan, known for building successful ventures like Zeus’s Closet and Stuff for Greeks, shares how a business crisis forced him to embrace automation—and how that pivot not only saved his company but doubled its revenue with half the staff.
But this episode goes far beyond business survival. Ethan dives deep into how AI and automation are transforming everything—from marketing and operations to personal productivity and even romance. Yes, you read that right. Ethan shares how he automated monthly flower deliveries to his wife, blending tech with authenticity in a way that’s both hilarious and heartwarming.
Topics Discussed:
Ethan also shares golden nuggets on how to simplify your life, automate your health habits, and think differently about what’s possible in the age of AI. Whether you're a startup founder, a seasoned CEO, or just AI-curious, this episode is your roadmap to working less, scaling faster, and living smarter.
Tune in now to learn how to future-proof your business and unlock exponential growth with the power of AI.
Duration:00:26:48
From Startup to 2000+ Clients: John Horn’s Blueprint for Digital Marketing Success
6/3/2025
Welcome to another episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, where we dive deep into the stories behind today’s most successful business leaders. In this episode, host Don Williams sits down with John Horn, the CEO of Stub Group — a digital marketing agency that has helped over 2,000 businesses grow through smart, ROI-driven advertising.
John’s journey is anything but ordinary. From working in a warehouse at age 10 to becoming the first employee at his brother’s startup, John has played a pivotal role in scaling Stub Group into a powerhouse agency managing hundreds of millions in ad spend. His story is one of grit, strategy, and relentless focus on results.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
John also shares his thoughts on the future of digital marketing, the importance of tracking ROI, and why best practices from platforms like Google and Meta aren’t always in your best interest.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or business owner looking to scale, this episode is packed with actionable insights and hard-earned wisdom.
Key Entities Mentioned in this episode:
John Horn (Guest): CEO of Stub GroupDon Williams: Stub Group: The Proven Entrepreneur Show
Duration:00:16:19
From South Central to Champion: Jamelle Holieway’s Untold Journey to NCAA Glory
5/26/2025
What does it take to go from sixth on the depth chart to leading your team to a national championship as a true freshman? In this unforgettable episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with 1985 NCAA National Champion quarterback Jamelle Holieway—a man whose story is as powerful off the field as it is on it.
Raised in South Central Los Angeles and thrust into the spotlight at the University of Oklahoma, Jamelle shares the moment he was unexpectedly called to replace Troy Aikman, how he handled the pressure of 80,000 roaring fans at Owen Field, and what it was like to practice against a defense stacked with legends like Tony Casillas, Brian Bosworth, and Ricky Dixon.
But this episode goes far beyond football.
Jamelle opens up about:
From South Central to the 1985 National Championship
Whether you're a sports fan, an entrepreneur, or someone navigating your own path to purpose, this episode is packed with inspiration, authenticity, and life-changing insight.
Tune in now to hear how Jamelle Holieway turned pressure into purpose—and why his story still echoes through the halls of Oklahoma football and beyond.
Duration:00:16:39
How ADHD Became Her Superpower: Skye Waterson’s Journey from Burnout to Business Breakthrough
5/19/2025
Get ready for an episode that’s as insightful as it is inspiring. In this edition of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams welcomes the dynamic and deeply relatable Skye Waterson, founder of Unconventional Organization. Broadcasting from opposite ends of the world—Texas and New Zealand—Don and Skye dive into a conversation that will resonate with every entrepreneur who’s ever struggled with focus, burnout, or the pressure to “do it all.”
Skye shares her powerful journey from academia to entrepreneurship, revealing how a late ADHD diagnosis during her PhD became the catalyst for a complete life and career transformation. She opens up about the emotional and financial toll of shutting down her first business—a healthy frozen food startup—during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how that painful pivot led to the creation of a more agile, purpose-driven venture.
Key Insights:
Key Entities Mentioned:
Skye Waterson – Don Williams – Unconventional Organization – The ADHD Skills Lab – Shark Tank – COVID-19 Pandemic –
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your to-do list, distracted by new ideas, or unsure how to turn your passion into profit—this episode is for you. Skye’s story is a masterclass in resilience, self-awareness, and the power of building a business that works with your brain, not against it.
Visit our websites to learn more: https://provenentrepreneurshow.com/
Duration:00:21:31
How OwnWell Helps Homeowners Slash Property Taxes | Colton Pace on Proven Entrepreneur
5/12/2025
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show! Today, host Don Williams sits down with Colton Pace, the visionary founder of OwnWell, a company dedicated to democratizing access to real estate expertise and helping homeowners save on property taxes, insurance, mortgages, and utilities.
In this episode, Don and Colton dive deep into the world of property tax representation, exploring how OwnWell has revolutionized the way homeowners can dispute their property tax assessments and save money. Colton shares insights into the company's marquee product, which has gained widespread adoption across the country, and explains the contingency fee model that makes it a no-brainer for customers to sign up.
Listeners will also get a glimpse into Colton's entrepreneurial journey, from his early days of ranch work and mowing lawns in Texas to his college years at the University of Washington, where he studied information systems and operations. Colton recounts his first business venture, MobileFix, and how his passion for finance led him to work for a family office managing assets for one of the wealthiest individuals in the country. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of scaling OwnWell from 700 to 60,000 customers in just one year, and the importance of hiring the right people and maintaining a strong company culture.
Tune in to hear Colton's valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, including the importance of taking risks and betting on yourself. Whether you're a homeowner looking to save on property taxes or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with insights and stories that you won't want to miss.
Visit our websites to learn more: https://provenentrepreneurshow.com/
Duration:00:16:21
From $0 to $1 Billion: Ami Kassar's Entrepreneurial Journey
5/5/2025
Welcome, listeners! We're thrilled to have you join us for another inspiring episode of the Proven Entrepreneur Show. In today's episode, host Don Williams sits down with the remarkable Ami Kassar, founder and CEO of MultiFunding. Get ready to dive into an engaging conversation that explores the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the intricacies of business funding, and the resilience required to build a billion-dollar company.
In this episode, Ami Kassar shares his incredible journey from starting MultiFunding 15 years ago to achieving the milestone of $1 billion in business funding. You'll hear about the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the strategies he used to help entrepreneurs secure loans transparently and effectively. Ami's story is not just about numbers; it's about the impact his company has had on job creation and business growth, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts.
Don and Ami also delve into the myths surrounding business lending and the importance of finding the right lender. Ami discusses how MultiFunding has debunked common misconceptions and provided responsible lending solutions to thousands of businesses. With a default rate of just 1.1%, MultiFunding's success is a testament to their commitment to ethical and effective lending practices. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to navigate the world of business funding.
Finally, Ami reflects on his personal experiences and the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship. From his early days in South Africa to moving to the United States and starting his own business, Ami's journey is a powerful reminder that success often comes from perseverance and adaptability.
Tune in to hear Ami Kassar's inspiring journey and gain valuable insights into the world of entrepreneurship and business funding. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tips to help you succeed. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation with one of the most influential figures in the world of business funding.
Duration:00:19:21
Transforming Business Efficiency with AI: Zulfiya Forsythe's Journey
4/28/2025
Welcome, listeners! Dive into the latest episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, where host Don Williams brings you an inspiring conversation with Zulfiya Forsythe, the dynamic founder and CEO of the Omadli Group. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of AI and data analytics, and discover how Zulfiya is transforming business operations to unlock unprecedented efficiency and growth.
In this episode, Don Williams sits down with Zulfiya Forsythe, a trailblazing entrepreneur from Boston, Massachusetts. Zulfiya shares her remarkable journey from corporate life to founding the Omadli Group, a company dedicated to helping businesses optimize their operations using cutting-edge AI and data analytics solutions.
Zulfiya Forsythe opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, starting from her days in corporate America to the bold decision to launch her own company amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She recounts the initial hurdles she faced, including the transition from a secure corporate job to the uncertain world of freelancing. Zulfiya's story is a testament to resilience and determination, as she navigated the complexities of starting a business and eventually found success with the Omadli Group.
The conversation delves into the core mission of the Omadli Group, which is to help businesses buy back their time through innovative technology solutions. Zulfiya explains how her company leverages AI and data analytics to streamline business operations, reduce manual tasks, and provide real-time insights that are crucial for growth. She emphasizes the value of clean and unbiased data, likening it to the "new raw oil" in the age of AI. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how data can be harnessed to drive efficiency and make informed decisions.
Don and Zulfiya discuss the broader implications of AI in business, touching on the importance of building a solid data foundation before implementing AI solutions. Zulfiya shares her experiences and the lessons she learned along the way, including the significance of understanding customer needs and the power of perseverance. The episode concludes with Zulfiya offering practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, encouraging them to believe in their ideas, embrace failure as part of the success journey, and continuously strive for improvement.
Tune in to this enlightening episode and discover how AI and data analytics can revolutionize your business operations. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from The Proven Entrepreneur Show!
Entities Mentioned:
Don Williams - Host
Zulfiya Forsythe - Founder & CEO of Omadli Group
Omadli Group - Business management consultant Firm
Upwork - Freelancing platform
Duration:00:14:46
Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit with Gina Mollicone-Long
4/21/2025
Welcome listeners! We're thrilled to have you join us for another exciting episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show. I'm your host, Don Williams, and today we have a truly special guest, Gina Mollicone-Long. Gina is not only a dear friend but also one of the most inspiring entrepreneurs I've had the pleasure of knowing. Get ready for a conversation filled with incredible stories, valuable insights, and a whole lot of inspiration.
In this episode, Gina takes us on a journey through her fascinating life, starting with her family's immigrant roots. She shares the courageous story of her grandparents, who left everything behind in Europe to start anew in Canada. Their resilience and entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundation for Gina's own path. From her early days studying chemical engineering to working as a welder at Chrysler, Gina's diverse experiences have shaped her unique perspective on business and life.
Gina's corporate journey at Procter & Gamble provided her with invaluable lessons, but it was her transition to entrepreneurship that truly defined her career. She opens up about the challenges she faced, including navigating the impact of 9/11 on her business and the unprecedented hurdles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through it all, Gina's unwavering belief in perseverance and self-belief shines through, offering listeners a powerful reminder that success often comes from embracing adversity.
As Gina prepares to embark on a new adventure, pursuing a PhD in neurotheology at Oxford University, she reflects on the importance of following your bliss and never giving up. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Gina's insights will inspire and motivate you to keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles.
Key Entities Mentioned:
Gina Mollicone-Long: Entrepreneur, author, and speaker.
Don Williams: Host of The Proven Entrepreneur Show.
Procter & Gamble: Gina's former employer.
Chrysler Corporation: Where Gina worked as a welder during her university years.
Morgan Stanley: Gina's brief encounter with the financial world.
NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming): A significant part of Gina's coaching and training methodology.
Oxford University: Gina's upcoming PhD journey in neurotheology.
Duration:00:38:27
Transforming Teen Lives: Austin Davis on Mental Health & Entrepreneurship
4/14/2025
In this inspiring episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Austin Davis, the visionary founder of Clearfork Academy. Austin shares his incredible journey from a youth pastor to a leading mental health professional, dedicated to transforming the lives of teenagers struggling with mental health and substance use issues.
Join us as Austin discusses the mission of Clearfork Academy, which provides comprehensive care for adolescents through detox, residential treatment, and outpatient programs. He opens up about his entrepreneurial spirit, influenced by his father's business endeavors, and how his faith and passion for helping others led him to pivot from pastoral ministry to mental health counseling.
Austin also shares valuable lessons from his entrepreneurial journey, including the challenges of scaling his business, the importance of finding the right team, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a mental health advocate, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with insights and heartfelt stories.
Tune in to hear about:
Tune in The Proven Entrepreneur Show and don't miss this episode filled with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference in their community.
Listen now and be inspired to create your own legacy!
Key Entities:
Austin Davis: Founder of Clearfork Academy
Don Williams: Host of The Proven Entrepreneur Show
Clearfork Academy: Clearfork Academy is a teen rehab in Texas
Duration:00:21:18
Revolutionizing Customer Engagement with AI: Insights from Regal.ai's Alex Levin
4/7/2025
Welcome to The Proven Entrepreneur Show, where host Don Williams brings you transformative insights from the world of entrepreneurship. In this episode, Don sits down with Alex Levin, co-founder of Regal.ai, a company at the forefront of AI innovation in customer engagement.
Alex Levin shares his compelling journey from a traditional business background to leading Regal.ai, a tech company revolutionizing customer interactions with advanced AI agents. Discover how Regal.ai's AI agents handle 20-40% of customer interactions for large enterprises, making voice communication not only efficient but also cost-effective. Alex delves into the evolution of AI technology, the economic benefits of voice AI, and the strategic decisions that have propelled Regal.ai's growth.
Key Topics Discussed:
This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for top executives, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals. Learn about the economic advantages of AI in customer service, the importance of maintaining high hiring standards, and the benefits of a usage-based pricing model. Alex Levin's insights offer actionable advice on leveraging AI to enhance customer engagement and drive business growth.
In this episode provides sophisticated yet accessible insights into the world of AI and entrepreneurship. Alex Levin's story is not just about facts; it's about the transformation and discovery that unfolds as he navigates the challenges and breakthroughs in the tech industry.
Tune in The Proven Entrepreneur Show to gain valuable insights into the world of AI and entrepreneurship, and discover how Regal.ai is revolutionizing customer service. Don't miss this episode packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories!
Key Entities:
Alex Levin: Co-founder of Regal.ai, a company specializing in AI agents for customer interactions.
Don Williams: Host of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, with 35 years of experience in the contact center industry.
Regal.ai: Innovator in AI technology, providing AI agents that enhance customer service and operational efficiency.
OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, Google: Leading companies in AI technology, contributing to the advancements that make Regal.ai's solutions possible.
Duration:00:22:56
Transforming Lives: Luke Mickelson's Journey with Sleep in Heavenly Peace | The Proven Entrepreneur Show
3/31/2025
In this heartwarming episode of The Proven Entrepreneur Show, host Don Williams sits down with Luke Mickelson, the inspiring founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring no child sleeps on the floor. Luke shares his incredible journey from building the first bed in his garage to leading a global movement that has delivered nearly 300,000 beds to children in need across four countries.
Discover the powerful story behind the mission statement "No kid sleeps on the floor in our town," and learn how a simple act of kindness transformed Luke's life and the lives of countless children. Luke discusses the challenges and triumphs of running a nonprofit, the importance of community involvement, and the impact of being named one of CNN's Top 10 Heroes in 2018.
Don and Luke delve into the significance of passion and purpose in entrepreneurship, the value of humility and leadership, and the future goals for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, including ambitious plans to expand globally and reach more children in need. This episode is filled with motivational insights, touching anecdotes, and practical advice for anyone looking to make a difference in their community.
Tune in to hear about:
Featured:
Guest: Luke Mickelson, Founder, Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Host: Don Williams, The Proven Entrepreneur Show
Entity: Sleep in Heavenly Peace: A Non-profit Organization
Don't miss this inspiring conversation that highlights the power of compassion, community, and entrepreneurial spirit. Listen now and be motivated to take action in your own community!
Duration:00:46:07