Advertise on podcast: The Mello Millionaire with Tommy Mello

Gary Vaynerchuk — widely known as GaryVee — is a serial entrepreneur, global marketing authority, investor, and six-time New York Times bestselling author. He is the Chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia, and Creator and CEO of VeeFriends.Before founding VaynerMedia, Gary first gained recognition by growing his family’s wine business from $3 million to over $60 million in annual revenue. He's now running a global advertising and communications agency helping Fortune 1000 brands compete for consumer attention. He's a prolific angel investor who made early investments in Facebook, Twitter, Uber, Snapchat, Venmo, Coinbase, and Tumblr. He is also the co-founder of VaynerSports, Resy (acquired by American Express), and Empathy Wines (acquired by Constellation Brands).Through his content, keynote speaking, bestselling books, and daily documentation of life as a CEO, Gary reaches more than 50 million followers worldwide and generates billions of impressions annually. Known for his ability to spot cultural shifts early and translate them into practical business strategy, Gary helps leaders understand how attention, relevance, and execution drive long-term brand and company growth in an ever-evolving digital economy. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form:https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Gary: https://www.instagram.com/garyvee/?hl=en

Shirin Behzadi is a transformational CEO, investor, board member, and bestselling author whose career is defined by resilience, disciplined leadership, and purpose-driven growth. After arriving in the United States alone at 17 and working as a gas station cashier, Shirin built a remarkable business career spanning finance, private equity, and franchising. She rose from CPA and CFO roles to become CEO of Home Franchise Concepts, where she led the company’s transformation into a billion-dollar platform of home services brands, overseeing hundreds of millions in systemwide sales and a successful private equity-backed exit.Today, Shirin serves as a trusted advisor, board director, and keynote speaker, helping leaders turn adversity into strategic advantage. She has raised more than $900 million in private equity, served on corporate and nonprofit boards, and is a passionate advocate for inclusive leadership and women’s empowerment. Her national bestselling memoir, The Unexpected CEO: My Journey from Gas Station Cashier to Billion-Dollar CEO, chronicles her journey from war-torn Iran to the C-suite and offers a powerful framework for leading with vision, empathy, and courage. Known for her ability to combine operational excellence with human-centered leadership, Shirin inspires executives and entrepreneurs to build enduring success — because they can. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast:Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33GLive Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about David: ⟶ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirin-behzadi/ 00:00 The Power of Empathy in Leadership01:24 Shereen's Journey: From Iran to CEO02:43 Overcoming Adversity: The Path to Resilience09:24 The Secret Sauce of Business Success14:03 The Superpower of Adversity19:33 Leadership Lessons: CFO vs. CEO Perspectives24:35 Life After a Life-Threatening Experience30:56 Balancing Life: Priorities Beyond Finance34:27 Navigating Burnout and Finding Growth35:15 The Unexpected CEO: A Roadmap for Success

James D. White is a transformational leader with more than three decades of experience operating at the highest levels of the consumer products, retail, and restaurant industries. Best known for leading the turnaround and reinvention of Jamba Juice, James guided the company’s evolution from a made-to-order smoothie concept into a globally recognized, health-focused lifestyle brand. Across executive roles at companies including Gillette, Safeway, Nestlé Purina, and Coca-Cola, he developed a deep operating playbook rooted in brand leadership, disciplined execution, and long-term value creation. Beyond the CEO role, James is one of the most sought-after board leaders in modern business, having served on more than 20 public and private boards including Panera Bread, The Honest Company, Simply Good Foods, CAVA, Affirm, and Medallia. In 2020, he co-founded Culture Design Lab to help CEOs and executive teams intentionally design organizations built for performance, resilience, and purpose. He is also the co-author of the national bestseller Culture Design: How to Build a High-Performing, Resilient Organization with Purpose, published by Harvard Business Review Press — a practical framework shaped by decades of real-world leadership and boardroom experience. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-d-white-086ab2153 00:00 The Essence of Leadership 03:06 Transforming Company Culture 05:49 Navigating Challenges at Jamba Juice 08:57 Recruitment and Team Dynamics 12:08 The Importance of Continuous Learning 15:09 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 18:12 The Role of Technology in Leadership 20:50 Building a Leadership Pipeline 23:46 The Impact of AI on Business 27:05 Lessons from Boardroom Experiences 29:58 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Culture

Kass and Mike Lazerow are serial entrepreneurs, early-stage investors, and New York Times bestselling authors, best known for their company's $745 million acquisition by Salesforce in 2012. As co-founders of GOLF.com and Buddy Media, they helped shape the early digital and social media landscape. Kass and Mike have founded multiple ventures and backed more than 100 startups, including breakout successes like Scopely and Liquid Death. In total, the companies they’ve built and supported have generated more than $10 billion in realized value. Today, Kass and Mike operate a diverse portfolio spanning venture capital, healthcare, executive recruiting, and sports. Their debut book, Shoveling $h!t: A Love Story About the Entrepreneur’s Messy Path to Success, became an instant bestseller for its candid look at what building real businesses actually demands. Known for their clarity, discipline, and long-term mindset, Kass and Mike are widely respected voices on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the realities behind sustainable success. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions 00:00 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 02:00 Building Successful Companies 06:02 Investing in the Future 09:50 Navigating Post-Exit Challenges 15:12 The Role of Emotional Intelligence 20:05 Advice for New Entrepreneurs 25:11 The Importance of Health and Longevity 29:52 Final Thoughts and Book Recommendations

Martha McSally is America's first female fighter pilot in combat, former U.S. Senator, decorated combat veteran, and one of the most accomplished leaders to ever serve in both the military and public office. Over a 26-year career in the United States Air Force, she broke barriers as one of the first women to fly combat missions in a fighter jet and later went on to command at the squadron level, leading in environments where precision, accountability, and trust were non-negotiable. She flew hundreds of hours in close-air-support missions across the Middle East and Afghanistan, earning multiple military honors for her service. After retiring from the Air Force as a Colonel, Martha transitioned into public service, representing Arizona in Congress before serving in the United States Senate. Across both arenas, she became known for her disciplined leadership style, willingness to take responsibility under pressure, and commitment to mission over ego. Today, she is a sought-after voice on leadership, resilience, and service — bringing hard-earned perspective from the battlefield, the halls of government, and life beyond titles. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Martha here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_McSally 00:00 Breaking Barriers: Martha McSally's Journey to Fighter Pilot 06:13 Leadership Lessons: Building Unbreakable Leaders 11:51 The Power of Self-Discovery and Authenticity 17:59 Reflections on Life, Legacy, and Abundance 23:47 Navigating Politics: A Call to Duty 30:11 Final Thoughts: Embracing Inner Work and Authenticity

Leo Pareja is the visionary Chief Executive Officer of eXp Realty, one of the fastest-growing and most disruptive real estate brokerages in the world. With more than two decades of real estate experience, Leo leads the company’s global strategy with a relentless focus on technology, agent empowerment, and industry transformation.  Leo began his real estate career at just 19 years old, quickly rising through the ranks to become the No. 1 agent in the world at Keller Williams by the age of 28 and selling nearly 4,000 homes during a 15-year production career. Beyond business, Leo is a recognized industry leader and thought-partner, known for his voice on real estate evolution and change leadership. He also co-founded the Pareja Family Foundation, which provides scholarships and opportunities for women and underrepresented individuals to enter the tech workforce. He is also the host of Pareja Unfiltered, a podcast where he explores what it takes to lead, grow, and win in business.  Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Leo here: https://www.instagram.com/leopareja?igsh=b2l6eGFudm01NG1y 00:00 The Journey to Real Estate Success 03:06 Transforming Real Estate with Technology 06:12 The Future of AI in Real Estate 09:04 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Work 11:58 The Human Experience in a Tech-Driven World 15:06 Finding Purpose Beyond Success 18:11 The Importance of Family and Relationships 21:06 Lessons from Business Exits 24:11 The Value of Experience Over Material Success 27:00 Influences and Inspirations in Business 30:04 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Zack Kass is a leading voice at the intersection of artificial intelligence, business, and humanity. As the former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI, he helped bring some of the world’s most powerful AI technologies out of the lab and into the hands of millions — shaping how organizations and society engage with AI at scale. Today, Zack is a global AI advisor, keynote speaker, and strategist, helping executives, governments, and institutions navigate what may be the most disruptive technological shift in human history. Known for his rare ability to make complex AI concepts practical, human, and actionable, Zack doesn’t traffic in hype — he focuses on what actually matters: how AI will change work, leadership, creativity, and power. His message is clear and urgent: AI isn’t just a tool. It’s a new operating system for society — and those who learn to work with it will define the future. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions 00:00 The Dawn of Unmetered Intelligence 10:04 The Future of Energy and AI 20:05 Societal Shifts and Human Purpose 30:09 Navigating the Home Services Industry 40:03 Reflections on AI and Human Interaction

Dr. Jim Rabeau is a leading quantum physicist and one of Australia’s foremost voices in quantum sensing and emerging quantum technologies. With a career spanning fundamental physics, applied research, and industry translation, Jim works at the frontier of technologies that are set to define the coming decades. His research focuses on harnessing quantum effects at the nanoscale—transforming deep physics into practical tools with applications in sensing, imaging, materials science, and beyond. As quantum technology moves from theory to world-changing capability, Jim has been at the center of shaping what that future looks like. He is known for building bridges between academia, industry, and government, helping ensure quantum breakthroughs translate into real-world impact. From redefining how we measure the physical world to enabling entirely new classes of technology, quantum represents a foundational shift—and Jim is one of the scientists helping turn that shift into reality. Whether advising decision-makers or explaining why quantum matters now, he brings rare clarity to a field that will reshape industries, economies, and how we understand the limits of what technology can do. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: The Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G About Jim Rabeau and Deteqt: https://deteqt.tech/ 00:00 Exploring Quantum Sensing and Its Potential 10:35 Navigating Without GPS: The Future of Magnetic Field Sensing 17:47 The Impact of Quantum Technology on Other Industries 24:08 Bridging the Gap: Emotional Intelligence in Quantum Tech 30:07 Reflections on Success and Personal Growth

Steve Varsano is the world’s most recognizable private jet broker and the founder of The Jet Business — a luxury aviation firm that has redefined how billion-dollar aircraft are bought and sold. A former Wall Street trader turned aviation power broker, Steve has facilitated billions of dollars in private jet transactions for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, royalty, and global elites. Known for his unapologetic honesty, sharp instincts, and larger-than-life presence, he’s become a trusted voice in an industry where trust is everything. From pioneering transparent jet sales to building the most iconic showroom in private aviation, Steve doesn’t just sell jets — he changes how power, speed, and access move around the world. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form:https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Steve: https://www.instagram.com/stevevarsano/?hl=en 00:00 The Journey to Private Aviation Success 09:59 The Role of Education and Client Empowerment 20:06 Work-Life Balance in a Demanding Industry 30:10 The Future of Aviation and Technology 40:00 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

David Bach is a renowned financial educator and author, shares his insights on achieving financial freedom through simple yet effective strategies. In this conversation, he emphasizes the importance of paying yourself first, automating savings, and the power of compound interest. The discussion also covers the significance of homeownership, tax strategies for retirement accounts, and the future of wealth creation. Bach's personal anecdotes and practical advice inspire listeners to take control of their finances and build lasting wealth. Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about David: ⟶ https://davidbach.com/ 00:00 The Path to Financial Freedom 03:07 Pay Yourself First: The Key to Wealth 05:52 The Power of Compound Interest 09:03 Automating Your Savings and Investments 11:49 The Importance of Homeownership 14:40 Understanding Wealth and Freedom 18:01 The Role of Real Estate in Wealth Building 20:53 Tax Strategies for Retirement Accounts 23:54 The Future of Wealth Creation 26:41 Building Relationships for Success 29:39 The Importance of Discipline and Habits

Henrik Werdelin is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and author who has spent well over a decade building wildly successful ventures from scratch. He co-founded BARK (including the famed BarkBox), helping turn a simple idea for dog-owners into a publicly traded company that redefined pet retail. Along the way he also helped launch Prehype — a venture-studio that incubated and accelerated dozens of startups across industries — turning creative ideas into real businesses.  Today, Henrik is at the forefront of a new wave: he co-founded Audos, an AI-native platform designed to make entrepreneurship accessible to thousands — perhaps millions — of aspiring builders. In his new book, Me, My Customer and AI, he explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the relationship between founders, customers, and ideas. Henrik blends his track-record of building big brands with a forward-looking vision of scalable, intelligent venture creation — proving that whether the product is pet toys or AI startups, success comes down to creativity, execution, and a human-first mindset. 0:00 Introduction to Henrik Werdelin3:00 The Role of AI in Entrepreneurship9:00 Building BarkBox and Business Insights18:00 The Future of AI and Business27:00 Challenges and Rewards of Going Public36:00 Personal Insights and AdviceCheck Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions

Robert Cialdini is a world-leading psychologist and bestselling author whose groundbreaking research on the science of influence has shaped modern understanding of persuasion and decision-making. Often called the godfather of influence, he introduced the now-classic principles of persuasion that guide leaders, marketers, and communicators around the globe. He is the author of the seminal books Influence and Pre-Suasion, which have sold millions of copies and been translated into dozens of languages. Cialdini’s work continues to define best practices in ethical persuasion, earning him recognition as one of the most influential behavioral scientists of our time. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Robert Cialdini 03:00 Principles of Ethical Influence 09:00 The Power of Reciprocity 15:00 Commitment and Consistency 21:00 Social Proof and Authority 27:00 Unity: The New Principle 33:00 Personal Insights and Anecdotes 39:00 Practical Applications of Influence Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Robert: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Cialdini

Kevin O’Leary is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and television personality best known as “Mr. Wonderful” on Shark Tank. Before he became “Mr. Wonderful,” he was building software companies and collaborating with innovators like Steve Jobs — experiences that sharpened his belief that clarity, product focus, and disciplined execution separate real businesses from the noise.After selling his first company in one of the biggest tech acquisitions of its era, O’Leary launched O’Leary Ventures, a diversified investment firm that backs founders who value data over ego and performance over posturing. His portfolio now stretches across consumer goods, technology, manufacturing, and financial products, reflecting his philosophy that a good deal is simple, scalable, and rooted in numbers that actually add up.Known for his blunt honesty and zero-fluff communication style, O’Leary has become a global voice for business clarity in a world drowning in hype. Both on and off the show, he forces entrepreneurs to think sharper, defend their decisions, and understand exactly why a deal is — or isn’t — worth doing. 01:36 Introduction and Power of Listening 03:25 Kevin O'Leary's Background and Philosophy 06:27 Truth and Business Ethics 09:38 Investment Strategies and Market Insights 12:54 Future of Business and Technology 24:03 Brand Building and Storytelling 28:20 Closing Thoughts and Reflections Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions

Damian Costa is a Las Vegas entertainment executive, producer, and entrepreneur shaping the next generation of live experiences on and off the Strip. A former Caesars Entertainment executive turned founder, Damian has led multimillion-dollar productions, developed hit shows, and helped reimagine how audiences connect with performance, hospitality, and brand storytelling. With deep roots in both the creative and business sides of entertainment, he’s built a reputation for transforming big ideas into scalable ventures that thrive in one of the world’s most competitive markets. Today, Damian continues to champion innovation in Las Vegas — blending artistry, commerce, and community to keep the city’s entertainment heartbeat strong. 00:00:00 Damian Costa's Deep Roots in Las Vegas Entertainment00:02:45 The Evolution of Las Vegas Entertainment and Experiences00:06:19 The Human Transaction of Live Entertainment in Vegas00:10:28 Inside Jimmy Kimmel's Club and the Art of Comedy 00:16:09 Nurturing Tomorrow's Stars in Las Vegas's Unique Scene00:20:55 Game-Changing Advice and Challenging the Status Quo00:25:34 Building Lasting Wealth and Understanding Scarcity's Power Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions Learn more about Damian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damian-costa-86926756/

Andy Elliott is the founder of The Elliott Group, a fast-growing sales training organization known for its high-energy approach to performance and leadership. Drawing on his years in automotive sales, Andy built a national following by teaching aggressive, mindset-driven sales strategies. While his style and methods often spark debate, there’s no denying his impact on modern sales culture — and his ability to motivate teams to break through plateaus and chase excellence with intensity. Jacqueline Elliott, Andy’s wife and business partner, serves as the driving force behind the company’s operations and brand strategy. A former fitness professional turned entrepreneur, she’s known for her leadership, discipline, and focus on culture-building within The Elliott Group. In our conversation, Andy and Jacqueline open up about what drives the Elliott mindset, how they push their limits, and why comfort is the enemy of growth. 00:00:00 Pursuing Greatness: Andy & Jacqueline's GOAT Philosophy00:01:10 Pivoting from Automotive Sales to People Development00:04:00 Achieving Sustainable Success and Family Integration00:07:07 Embracing the 'Having It All' Life Philosophy00:09:17 Transitioning from Operator to Empowered Owner00:11:52 Mastering Work Ethic and Intentional Time Management00:16:30 The Power of Intentionality, Focus, and Discipline00:21:01 The Art of Commitment and Daily Reinvention00:23:24 Implementing Strategic Downtime and Building Trust00:26:38 Building Confidence Through Patterns and Reinvention00:31:37 The Difference Between Getting Rich and Living Rich00:36:45 The Power of Daily Self-Development and Decisive Action Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok  ⟶ https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram ⟶ https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook ⟶https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/ My other podcast: Home Service Expert ⟶ https://open.spotify.com/show/4WHQ3ldGThHsP1cfzNF33G Live Q&A submission form: https://homeserviceexpert.com/questions