Advertise on podcast: Super U Podcast

What happens when the biggest battle isn't happening around you—it's happening inside your head? On this episode of Super U, Erik Qualman sits down with retired U.S. Navy Captain, engineer, leadership expert, author, and speaker Dr. Jenn Donahue. During her 27-year military career, Jenn built a bridge across the Euphrates during the Iraq War, commanded an 800-person battalion in Afghanistan, and survived an assassination plot. Yet she reveals that one of her toughest battles wasn't enemy fire—it was self-doubt. Jenn shares how a toxic boss nearly broke her confidence, why you shouldn't let your "head win," and how to recognize the inner voices that keep us stuck, including her "mean little voice" and "sneaky little bastard." She also explains why everyone needs a "battle buddy," how great leaders see the individual rather than just the organization, and why the best leaders focus on making their people better. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, leadership, self-awareness, trusting your team, and finding the courage to become who you're meant to be. Get your copy of Jenn Donahue's quote book here: https://www.daretorise.co/quotes Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

In this episode of the Super U Podcast, Erik Qualman sits down with legendary sports agent, entrepreneur, and best-selling author Leigh Steinberg. Often credited as the real-life inspiration for the Oscar-winning film Jerry Maguire, Leigh has spent decades helping some of the world's greatest athletes turn talent into enduring brands, careers, and legacies. Leigh shares lessons from representing more than 300 professional athletes and coaches across football, basketball, baseball, hockey, boxing, and golf. With an unprecedented eight number-one overall NFL Draft picks and 62 total first-round picks, his career is defined by record-setting contracts, bold negotiations, and a relentless belief in the power of preparation, relationships, and vision. The conversation explores what it takes to build a personal brand, negotiate with confidence, and turn success into meaningful impact. Leigh also discusses securing more than $4 billion for his clients and directing over $750 million to charitable causes around the world, offering a powerful perspective on how achievement can be used to create opportunities far beyond the individual. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, leader, parent, or simply someone looking to maximize your potential, this episode offers an inspiring look at what it means to build a legacy and use success to make a difference. Learn More About MDEnvoy: From speaking at conferences to publishing research to weighing in on public health conversations, many physicians put in hard work to be visible beyond the doctor's office. Yet most lack the resources to turn that visibility into brand deals, paid speaking engagements, or long-term career positioning outside traditional medicine. Why should doctors, much like athletes or influencers, be thinking about monetizing their professional brand, and what does it look like when they can capitalize on their visibility?   Through MDEnvoy, co-founders Leigh Steinberg and Dr. Michael Suk aim to help today's physicians enter into long-lasting and mutually successful relationships with their employers and provide other strategic support, including relocation planning, wealth management, intellectual property protection, branding, and more. https://mdenvoy.com/ Connect on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Connect on Facebook Connect on X Follow on YouTube Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

What if the key to winning a negotiation isn't being the loudest person in the room—but knowing when to listen, when to pause, and how to build trust? On this episode of the Super U Podcast, Erik Qualman sits down with attorney, entrepreneur, talent executive, professor, and veteran dealmaker Ken Sterling, author of Tilt the Room. Ken shares the strategies he's developed across law, business, technology, entertainment, and high-stakes dealmaking to help people influence outcomes without becoming aggressive or burning bridges. Ken breaks down his Tilt the Room framework—trust, influence, leverage, and timing—and explains why successful negotiation is less about overpowering the other side and more about understanding people, preparing for the room, and creating relationships that last beyond a single deal. The conversation explores how to: • Build trust and rapport before you ever need leverage • Read the room and understand the people sitting across the table • Prepare thoroughly while staying flexible in the moment • Use silence and the "power of the pause" to your advantage • Stay calm under pressure instead of resorting to bullying • Avoid overplaying your hand when you have leverage • Give difficult feedback without destroying trust • Stay focused and fully present during high-stakes conversations • Approach negotiation as a long-term relationship rather than a one-time transaction Ken also shares his memorable philosophy: "Never call someone's baby ugly." In negotiation and leadership, ideas can feel deeply personal—and dismissing someone's idea can damage the trust and influence you've worked hard to build. From billion-dollar dealmaking principles to everyday negotiations at work and home, this episode is a masterclass in how to tilt the room without tipping the scales too far. Tune in for practical insights on negotiation, leadership, focus, influence, and the human side of getting to yes. Connect with Ken Sterling: www.sterlingmedialaw.com www.bigspeak.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/kensterling/ https://www.instagram.com/ken.sterling/ Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

What does it take to perform at your highest level—not just once, but consistently, when the pressure is on? In this episode of the Super U Podcast, hosted by Erik Qualman, we sit down with Dr. Tom Mitchell, performance coach and former sports psychiatrist for the Golden State Warriors, to explore the mindset behind peak performance. Tom shares insights from his career working with elite athletes, coaches, and leaders, along with lessons from his book co-written with legendary quarterback Joe Montana. Tom also pulls back the curtain on his time working alongside Chris Mullin, his experiences as a college basketball coach and the unique lessons that coaching taught him about leadership, resilience, and bringing out the best in others. The conversation explores mentality, focus, and what it really takes to perform when the stakes are high. Tom shares practical strategies for staying present, maintaining confidence, handling pressure, and keeping your mind focused on what you can control.  Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, leader, or simply someone looking to perform at a higher level, this episode is packed with powerful stories and actionable lessons on developing the mindset to stay focused, overcome challenges, and become your best self. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

What does it really take to stay focused in a world full of distraction? In this special audience Q&A episode, bestselling author, keynote speaker, and professor Erik Qualman answers questions spanning leadership, AI, keynote speaking, business, personal growth, and the habits that have shaped his career. Topics include: • How Erik prepares backstage before a keynote • Favorite places and audiences he's spoken to around the world • Where he'd most like to speak next • How focus influences leadership and decision-making • AI, innovation, and the future of work • Lessons learned from writing bestselling books • Building a career around purpose, curiosity, and continuous learning • Advice for aspiring speakers, leaders, and entrepreneurs Whether you're leading a company, building a business, preparing for your next presentation, or simply looking to become more focused in your personal and professional life, this episode offers practical insights you can put into action immediately. Because the future doesn't belong to the biggest, the fastest, or the loudest. The future belongs to the focused. Submit your questions for Erik to [email protected] Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

In this episode of the Super U Podcast, Erik Qualman sits down with Derek Notman and Adam Holt, founders of REBL Dads and co-authors of the new book REBL Dad. Drawing from conversations with more than 100 successful fathers, Derek and Adam share powerful lessons on what it means to lead with intention at home and at work. The discussion explores the realities of modern fatherhood, especially for entrepreneurs and high achievers who are striving to balance career ambitions with family responsibilities. Derek and Adam discuss the inspiration behind the REBL Dads community, their annual gatherings on Necker Island with Richard Branson, and the insights that emerged from interviewing fathers from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Listeners will learn why intentional presence emerged as the most common trait among successful dads, how family values and communication can strengthen relationships, and why legacy is about far more than financial success. The conversation also touches on mentorship, vulnerability, work-life integration, and practical ways fathers can create meaningful moments with their children. Whether you're a parent, entrepreneur, leader, or simply someone striving to make a greater impact in the lives of those you love, this episode offers actionable insights and heartfelt stories that will inspire you to show up more intentionally every day. Learn More About REBL Dads: Buy REBL Dad on Amazon Website: rebldads.com Email: [email protected] Connect with Derek: linkedin.com/in/dereknotman Connect with Adam: linkedin.com/in/hadamholt X: @REBL_Dads Instagram: @REBLDads facebook.com/rebldads Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

In this inspiring episode of the Super U Podcast, Kirsten Maitland shares her remarkable journey from a difficult childhood in England to becoming the co-founder and CEO of Rebel Cheese — one of Time Magazine's Best Innovations of 2025. Kirsten opens up about growing up in foster care, joining the U.S. Navy at 16, building a successful career in tech consulting, and ultimately leaving it all behind to pursue a mission-driven business with her husband. She takes listeners behind the scenes of their unforgettable Shark Tank experience, including the intense pitch preparation, the emotional rollercoaster of filming, and what it was really like landing a deal with Mark Cuban. The conversation also dives into entrepreneurship during COVID, scaling an e-commerce business from scratch, the future of AI and search, and why 74% of Rebel Cheese customers aren't even vegan. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, innovation, leadership, and betting on yourself when everyone else says it won't work. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

What if you could grow a business faster without taking on all the risk, time, and cost yourself? In this episode of the Super U Podcast, we sit down with franchising expert Dr. Tom DuFore, founder and CEO of Big Sky Franchise Team, to break down how franchising helps entrepreneurs scale smarter. With over 20 years of experience and more than 600 brands advised, including household names Tom shares the real mechanics behind turning one successful business into many. We explore the three biggest problems franchising solves—capital, management, and time—and why it's become one of the most powerful growth strategies for entrepreneurs today. Whether you're a first-time business owner, a corporate professional looking for a change, or someone thinking about scaling your existing company, this conversation is packed with practical insights. Tom also pulls back the curtain on what it's really like to own a franchise, what surprises people most, where they struggle, and why following the system is often the key to success. Plus, he shares firsthand lessons from his own experience as a multi-unit franchise owner. If you've ever wondered whether franchising is the right move or how to take your business to the next level—this episode gives you a clear, honest roadmap. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

What if the only thing standing between you and major media coverage… is how you tell your story? In this episode, we're joined by KJ Blattenbauer, founder and CEO of Hearsay PR, a powerhouse publicist who helps overlooked experts become headline makers. With nearly 30 years of experience and clients featured in outlets like Forbes, Architectural Digest, Fast Company, and The Today Show, KJ knows exactly what it takes to break through a crowded media landscape. She shares the real strategies behind getting noticed—whether you're an entrepreneur, author, founder, or creative—and why most people never get the visibility they deserve. We dive into: The simple framework to clarify your message and stand out instantly Why most pitches fail (and how to fix yours in 5–7 sentences) The follow-up strategy that dramatically increases your success rate How to use AI the right way in PR (and where it falls short) The truth about "pay-to-play" media—and whether it's worth it Why you should start PR before you feel ready KJ also breaks down how to think like the media, craft irresistible subject lines, and position yourself as the go-to expert in your space. If you've ever felt like you have something valuable to share, but aren't getting the attention to match—this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to change that. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

Ever wonder what really happens behind your favorite TV shows? Doug Weitzbuch has been in the room for it all—producing everything from Hell's Kitchen to Duck Dynasty—and in this episode, he shares the wild, unfiltered reality of the entertainment industry. From getting chewed out by Gordon Ramsay to helping shape a cultural phenomenon, Doug takes us inside the chaos, creativity, and constant hustle of unscripted television. We also dive into his latest venture, Housle—a viral daily game that turns real estate into a surprisingly addictive challenge and how he brought it to life outside of Hollywood. Along the way, we explore: Why some shows explode while others flop The pressure (and freedom) of freelance creative work What it's like producing 1,200 contestants for a single show And how to stay grounded while chasing big opportunities This episode is equal parts entertaining and eye-opening. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

This audio clip from Erik Qualman's #1 bestselling book The Focus Project explores the true meaning of meditation. It challenges the idea that meditation requires a perfect setting (like sitting in the lotus position surrounded by candles) and instead reframes it as simply being fully present in any given moment.   5x #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 55 countries and reached over 50 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind Harry Potter's J.K. Rowling.   Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected]   Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.   Learn more at https://equalman.com

What if you could sit down and have a conversation with a loved one who's no longer here? In this powerful episode of Super U, Erik sits down with entrepreneur and Reflekta.AI founder Miles Spencer to explore how technology is reshaping the way we preserve—and interact with—human legacy. From turning old photos, voice clips, and family stories into dynamic digital experiences, to navigating the emotional weight of reconnecting with the past, Miles shares how AI can deepen human connection rather than replace it. They also dive into the realities of building a startup at lightning speed, lessons learned from multiple exits (and dozens of failures), and why being "ready enough" is often all you need to take the leap. This conversation blends cutting-edge innovation with timeless themes of storytelling, family, and purpose—leaving you thinking differently about both the future of AI and the legacy you're creating today. In this episode, you'll learn: How AI can preserve family stories and bring memories to life Why emotional readiness matters just as much as technical capability The entrepreneurial mindset behind launching and scaling quickly Practical storytelling tips to make your message unforgettable Tune in for a thought-provoking episode that challenges what it means to live on—and how technology can help us do it more meaningfully. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

What if you didn't have to quit your job to build something bigger? On this episode of the Super U Podcast, Erik Qualman joins Travis Chappell on the Travis Makes Money podcast to break down the real path to entrepreneurship—one that's often overlooked. From selling marigold seeds door-to-door as a kid to working at Yahoo during the dot-com boom, Erik shares how his journey wasn't a straight leap, but a strategic build.  You'll learn: Why you don't need to quit your job to start your dream How to turn side projects into scalable income streams The power of asking (and why "no" is often your biggest missed opportunity) What most people get wrong about writing books and building a brand How speaking, content, and creativity can become powerful revenue drivers This conversation is packed with practical insights on digital leadership, entrepreneurship, and building a career that works for you—not the other way around. Five-time #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 60 countries and reached over 60 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind the Harry Potter series. Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected] Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.

This audio clip from Erik Qualman's #1 bestselling book The Focus Project highlights the importance of sleep quality and shares practical ways to improve your sleep habits.   5x #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 55 countries and reached over 50 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind Harry Potter's J.K. Rowling.   Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected]   Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.   Learn more at https://equalman.com

This audio clip from Erik Qualman's #1 bestselling book The Focus Project challenges the classic phrase "Practice Makes Perfect," explaining why it isn't entirely true, and how a simple rewording makes it far more powerful.   5x #1 Bestselling Author and Motivational Speaker Erik Qualman has performed in over 55 countries and reached over 50 million people this past decade. He was voted the 2nd Most Likable Author in the World behind Harry Potter's J.K. Rowling.   Have Erik speak at your conference: [email protected]   Motivational Speaker | Erik Qualman has inspired audiences at FedEx, Chase, ADP, Huawei, Starbucks, Godiva, FBI, Google, and many more on Focus and Digital Leadership.   Learn more at https://equalman.com