Today, Mike sits down with Jayson Stirrup, Executive Director of Casa Hogar in Cabo San Lucas. Jayson takes us through his unexpected journey from Toronto, Canada, to leading a children's home in Mexico, where he dedicates his life to helping kids overcome the trauma of their pasts. He shares powerful stories of resilience, the challenges of running a nonprofit in a foreign country, and the unique strategies Casa Hogar employs to foster a nurturing environment for children. Jayson’s story exemplifies the power of extra effort put forth through servant leadership. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with Luke Gilliam, Senior Vice President at Liberty National. Luke shares his journey from a small-town upbringing in Texas to overcoming the challenges of a declining journalism industry. He dives into his transition from traditional journalism to leading a digital media startup, reflecting on the hard lessons learned along the way. Luke’s insights on innovation, leadership, and adapting to change offer valuable takeaways for anyone looking to navigate the evolving landscape of business and life. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with agency owner Brandon Jones. Brandon takes us through his journey from a small town in Lower Alabama to becoming a successful agency owner. He shares his early love for sports,  the derailment of a surgery in college, and the struggles of moving far away from home to take on his toughest challenge. Brandon’s story is a testament to perseverance, making tough decisions, and never letting adversity define you. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with Clint McLain, agency owner in Birmingham, Alabama. Clint shares his journey from living on his own out of high school on a movie theater salary to his rewarding but challenging climb to a steady career. Following his family legacy, he had to make a painful decision with one of his most prized possessions to escape rock bottom. Clint’s story highlights perseverance, adaptability, and the enduring impact of focused extra effort. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with Drew Aderholt, agency owner in Alpharetta, Georgia. Drew takes us through his journey from growing up in the insurance industry to carving out his own path within the company. He shares his experience as the son of a successful agency owner, the challenges of transitioning from the worksite to the individual market, and the unexpected hurdles he faced in his first years as an agency owner. Drew's story is a testament to the power of hard work, adapting to change, and creating your own legacy while honoring your roots. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with Chicago-based agent, Monica Klempel. Monica shares her journey, detailing her early passion for figure skating and the rigorous training that led her to the brink of the Olympics. Despite a career-ending injury, her resilience and extra effort guided her to success in academia and a thriving career in insurance. Monica’s story exemplifies the power of hard work, sacrifice, and adaptability in the face of adversity. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with a very special guest, Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence! DeMarcus shares his journey from a small town in South Carolina to the NFL, revealing how his family's work ethic and his own determination propelled him forward. He discusses the challenges he faced, from missed opportunities in his early football career to the pivotal decisions that shaped his path. DeMarcus’s story highlights the importance of resilience, faith, and hard work, offering valuable lessons on overcoming adversity and achieving success. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with the President of FC Dallas, Dan Hunt. Dan tells the story of how his family's legacy transformed American sports, starting with humble beginnings on a farm in Arkansas. He shares the bold risks his father took to pursue his passion for sports. His reflections on perseverance, integrity, and community involvement offer powerful insights into building a lasting legacy. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with Danielle Alexander, Supervising Agent from the Kevin Petersen agency and bronze medalist in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics for taekwondo. Danielle shares her journey from humble beginnings to overcoming challenges on her way to the Olympics. From facing initial resistance to winning a dramatic rematch, Danielle’s story is one of resilience and mental toughness. Her insights on breaking barriers and facing challenges head-on exemplify the power of determination. Danielle’s journey is a testament to the mental toughness needed to achieve greatness. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down with a very special guest, Olympic Gold Medalist Carly Patterson. Carly walks us down the road to the 2004 Summer Olympics, detailing her somewhat accidental entry into gymnastics and how she fell in love with the hard work the sport demanded of her. Even when faced with uncertainty, the mental toughness she forged allowed her to surpass all the grueling days and set the stage for her unprecedented Olympic performance. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike sits down for a special live audience recording with Stephanie Poe, Agency Owner in Phoenix, Arizona. Stephanie takes us through her remarkable journey from a passionate baker to a thriving agency owner. She reveals how adaptability, perseverance, and embracing change have been key to her success. Stephanie’s journey is a compelling lesson in mental toughness and the power of resilience in achieving professional and personal triumphs. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Tony DiFilippo, Agency Owner in St Louis, Missouri. From his entrepreneurial spirit in elementary school to overcoming a life-threatening health crisis, Tony's story illustrates the power of embracing challenges. Through sacrifices and unwavering resilience during personal losses, Tony offers profound insights on how true leaders develop mental toughness. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to James Lawrence, the Iron Cowboy, at the iconic Grand Ole Opry! James shares his journey from a humble upbringing in Calgary to becoming a Guinness World Record-holding endurance athlete. He discusses his early life, the pivotal moments that shaped him, and his transition into endurance sports. James also opens up about the mindset and philosophy that fueled his success, including his experiences during the 2008 economic crisis. Tune in to discover the mindset principles that have powered James's extraordinary journey of resilience and success. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Rich Correa, Senior Vice President of Sales for Globe Life Liberty National Division. Rich opens up about his early struggles, from barely graduating high school to facing the challenges of young fatherhood. Despite these hurdles, Rich chose to dig deep to build a better future for his family. Through unwavering determination and a commitment to mentoring others, Rich took the elevator up the ranks in order to send it back down. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Michelle Bourdon, Lead Worksite Corporate Trainer. Michelle shares her journey from a difficult upbringing to embracing a confident new persona to overcome insecurities. Despite facing major setbacks, her resilient mindset enabled her to transform her life by eventually achieving her goal of becoming a director. Michelle's inspiring story demonstrates the power of self-belief and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Angela Hanson, Agency Owner in Alexander City, Alabama. Angela's unwavering persistence led her from being initially rejected to getting hired with Globe Life Liberty National. She developed a "never quit" mindset, overcame her shyness, doubts, and even a major career setback. Angela's mindset and refusal to give up propelled her to make history as the first back-to-back Agency Owner of the Year.

Today, Mike is talking to Agency Owner of the year, Tim Nuckolls on our first ever recording with a live audience! Tim shares his inspiring journey from his start in electrical work to his success as an award winning leader, revealing how humility, resilience, and hard work paved his way. Tim unpacks the key moments and mindsets that shaped his path, offering insights into turning obstacles into opportunities. It's a powerful lesson in leveraging life's challenges for growth and leadership. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Jennifer Haworth, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Globe Life. Jennifer shares her early career struggles in the ruthless advertising world, which eventually led her to stumble upon Globe Life's in-house agency on a whim. By developing a mindset of turning obstacles into opportunities, Jennifer persevered through years of resistance to unify Globe Life's fragmented marketing efforts under one brand. Hear how her relationship-building talents allowed her to spearhead Globe Life's iconic sports partnerships and evolve the company into the nationally-recognized household name it is today. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Steve DiChiaro, CEO at Globe Life Liberty National. Steve shares his life story growing up in a challenging household, where he took on adult responsibilities like cooking and banking from a young age. Steve ended up deciding to leave a career he had invested 10 years into in order to find a better life for him and his family. By learning to believe in people even when they didn't believe in themselves, Steve rose to the very top of leadership and is still leading the company into new heights. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Keith Mitchell, Agency Owner in Mobile, Alabama. Growing up the son of a Liberty National Agent, Keith got to see what the business was all about from an early age. Even after moving around several times, Keith one day made the decision to follow in his father’s footsteps; but getting started wasn’t nearly as easy as he thought it would be. By adopting a mindset of growth, Keith eventually made helping people his north star and experienced true success. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Corey Hulsey, Agent in Clermont, Georgia. Corey grew up with a dream of playing football. As he continually surpassed his football goals, he eventually made his way onto the Buffalo Bills, only to get cut unexpectedly. After returning home and getting a truck driving job, he persevered and readied himself for the next opportunity. By developing a mindset of radical preparedness, Corey would set himself up for success on the football field and throughout the rest of his life. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Stephanie Briggs, Agency Owner in Austin, Texas. Stephanie was raised in a family that ran their own business. After starting her own successful company at the age of 21, she had to face failure when big box stores drove her out of business. By honing her sales skills as a jeweler and embracing her natural entrepreneurship, she eventually found the right career fit that made use of her rock-solid work ethic. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Jason Adams, Agent in Ozark, Missouri. Growing up, Jason was a highly competitive athlete, but early on in his career he found himself split between his passion and a day job. After his employer unexpectedly went out of business, he was thrust into a completely new career path. By channeling his competitive nature, he was able to achieve what he used to consider impossible. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to the original #88 for the Dallas Cowboys, Drew Pearson! We dive into the story of a football legend who overcame being undrafted out of college to become a Hall of Famer. After realizing his weak points, Drew got right to work to become the strongest version of himself. Find out how all of his struggles led to his success, the first Hail Mary pass, and a rock solid outlook for winning on the field and in life. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Keith Bennett, Regional Agency Director in Searcy, Arkansas. As a kid, he first became acquainted with tragedy when his father became paralyzed from a rare disease. As one misfortune led to another, Keith eventually turned to drugs and alcohol just to get from day to day. However, Keith didn't completely give up hope and one gesture of genuine kindness gave him the chance to become the man he needed to be. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Susan Crandall, Agency Owner in Columbia, South Carolina. Susan was living the dream life of a stay at home mom, up until the unthinkable happened and uprooted her future. She had to navigate a brand new life as a single mom, and jumped into the workforce for the first time at age 30. By being persistent, resilient and determined, Susan adopted the mindset she needed to provide well beyond the needs of her family. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Jason Everett, Agency Owner in Little Rock, Arkansas. Jason shares his whole journey from the very beginning. Growing up in small-town Arkansas, he was the first in his family to graduate college. As Jason overcame obstacles like massive debt and career transitions, he would eventually find his footing to become the man his family needed him to be.  This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle

Today, Mike is talking to Jonathan Ramos, Agency Owner in San Antonio, Texas. Jonathan shares his whole journey from the very beginning. Growing up Puerto Rico, he dreamed of becoming a professional baseball player and ended up playing in college and the minor leagues. After a substantial injury derailed his ambitions, he was given the chance to step up and turn his situation into success. This is the Level Up Lifestyle podcast. Make sure to follow along our journey by visiting our social channels here: https://linktr.ee/theleveluplifestyle