Guest: Kevin Thompson WHY.os: Contribute – Clarify – Trust
Kevin Thompson is a relationship-building expert and entrepreneur who has mastered the art of making authentic connections that drive success. With decades of experience, Kevin has helped countless business owners create meaningful partnerships by focusing on contribution and trust. In this episode, Kevin shares how his approach to business is rooted in helping others succeed first, which in turn fuels his own achievements.
How giving leads to personal and business growth
Why genuine relationships are the foundation of long-term success
Practical tips to balance family and business without sacrificing either
Tune in now to hear Kevin’s straightforward advice on making a lasting impact.
02:15 – The Importance of Contribution 06:40 – Building Authentic Relationships 11:05 – Embracing Vulnerability in Business 16:30 – The Power of Giving Over Receiving 21:50 – Balancing Family and Business 27:20 – Using Revenue to Create Impact 32:45 – The Challenge of Receiving Help 38:10 – Strategic Partnerships for Mutual Benefit 44:25 – Impact vs. Profit 49:00 – The Active Appreciation Challenge
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How Giving First Leads to Lasting Success: Lessons from Kevin Thompson
When it comes to building lasting success, Kevin Thompson knows a thing or two. He’s not your typical business guru. Instead of focusing on the hard grind or quick wins, Kevin’s secret sauce is all about relationships—authentic, meaningful connections that go beyond transactions. In this episode of Beyond Your WHY, Kevin talks about how putting others first, whether in business or life, creates a ripple effect that ultimately leads to your own success. And believe me, this isn’t just feel-good advice—it’s practical, proven, and totally doable.
Kevin’s approach isn’t about networking for the sake of it. He’s built a career helping others grow by first understanding what they need and then figuring out how he can support them. He talks about how the business world often gets it backward—focusing too much on the “what’s in it for me” and too little on “how can I help?” And here’s the kicker: when you stop worrying about yourself, that’s when things start to fall into place. “When others succeed, I succeed,” Kevin says, and that mindset has been the foundation of his entire career.
Building Relationships, Not Transactions
Kevin dives deep into the idea that genuine relationships—not transactions—are the key to long-term success. In the episode, he shares how approaching people with the intention to help, rather than to get something in return, has completely transformed his business. It’s not just about finding clients; it’s about finding people you want to see win. “Focus on relationships, not transactions,” Kevin says. That simple shift in mindset can change everything in how you approach your career and personal life.
The best part? You don’t need to be a super-connector or a natural extrovert to apply Kevin’s advice. He gives actionable tips, like taking time each day to reach out to people you appreciate. He even suggests sending a message to 10 people in your contact list just to let them know you value them. No sales pitch, no hidden agenda—just appreciation. That’s how you build a network of people who not only like you but are eager to help you when the time comes.
The Power of Giving Without Expectation
Another major takeaway from the episode is Kevin’s focus on giving without expecting anything in return. It sounds counterintuitive, especially in a world where we’re taught to hustle and grind. But Kevin explains that when you shift your mindset to giving first, incredible things start to happen. He shares how this principle has led to partnerships and opportunities that he never could have predicted. “Give, and it will come back to you,” he says, but warns that it’s not always immediate or obvious. The point isn’t to give with strings attached—it’s to give because it feels right, and in time, the rewards will find you.
This giving-first mentality has shaped the way Kevin approaches not just his business relationships, but also his family life. “I don’t work weekends; that’s family time,” he shares, underscoring the importance of setting boundaries and putting your priorities in order. His philosophy is a reminder that success isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s also about how you show up for the people who matter most.
Embracing Vulnerability and Asking for Help
One of the more surprising insights from Kevin was his take on vulnerability. For someone who’s spent his career helping others, you’d think he’d be a natural at receiving help. But Kevin admits that wasn’t always the case. “I used to suck at receiving,” he confesses, explaining that learning to ask for help was a game-changer for him, both personally and professionally. He talks about how vulnerability and openness have allowed him to build deeper, more meaningful connections—something that has enriched both his business and his life.
By embracing vulnerability and stepping away from the typical “lone wolf” mentality, Kevin has been able to open doors to opportunities and partnerships that would have been out of reach otherwise. It’s a lesson we can all take to heart—sometimes, asking for help is the bravest and smartest thing you can do.
How to Start Applying Kevin’s Wisdom Today
If there’s one thing to take away from this episode, it’s that success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter by focusing on relationships, giving without expectation, and embracing vulnerability. Kevin Thompson’s approach to business and life is simple, but incredibly effective. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business leader, or just someone looking to make deeper connections, his advice will resonate and inspire.
Ready to dive deeper into these lessons? Listen to the full episode of Beyond Your WHY with Kevin Thompson and start applying these insights to your life today. You’ll be amazed at the results.
About Kevin Thompson
After selling $16.1 Million of his own products and services solely through strategic partnerships, Kevin Thompson intimately understands the value of relationships.
As host of the Million Dollar Relationships podcast and founder of the Impact & Legacy Collective he creates positive change on a global scale by facilitating relationships that impact millions of people.
In his role as the conduit of trust for those he serves, Kevin cuts through the red tape, quickly opens doors that are closed to others, eliminates rejection and guarantees a red-carpet reception.
Guest: Mark J. Carter WHY.os: Make Sense – Challenge – Clarify
Mark J. Carter is a networking expert, social media strategist, and podcast host who went from being an introverted high school student to a successful networker. Mark’s experiences in sales, public speaking, and coaching have shaped his approach to building meaningful relationships in business. His book, Idea Climbing, provides actionable advice on how to create and sustain a strong network.
Learn how to build strong relationships and get valuable referrals.
Discover the benefits of niche networking events over large, generic ones.
Find out how to use social media to grow your professional network effectively.
Listen to the episode now to hear Mark’s straightforward tips and stories that can help you connect with others and succeed in your career.
00:00 The Power of Making Sense 03:03 From Introvert to Expert Networker 09:11 Navigating the Transition from Sales to Coaching 19:33 The Importance of Networking and Building Relationships 21:23 Harnessing the Power of Social Media for Networking 23:20 Building Relationships and Getting Referrals 27:06 Memorable Interviews and Unexpected Opportunities 29:08 Favorite Interviews and Lessons Learned
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From Introvert to Networking Pro: How Mark J. Carter Turned Relationships into Success
In this episode of the Beyond Your WHY Podcast, Dr. Gary Sanchez chats with Mark J. Carter—a guy who’s cracked the code on networking, even though he started out as the shy kid in high school. Mark’s story is a relatable one, filled with twists and turns that led him from sales to coaching, and eventually to becoming a social media strategist and podcast host. But what makes Mark special isn’t just his resume—it’s how he turned building relationships into a powerful tool for success. Whether you’re a seasoned networker or someone who still breaks a sweat at the thought of small talk, Mark’s insights offer something for everyone.
Now, why should you care about what Mark has to say? For one, he’s not just another “networking guru” throwing around buzzwords. He’s a guy who’s been in the trenches, made his fair share of mistakes, and figured out what really works when it comes to connecting with people. Plus, he’s got this knack for making complex situations understandable—a skill that comes in handy whether you’re at a networking event or trying to make sense of a chaotic work project. So, grab your coffee (or whatever helps you focus), and let’s dive into the good stuff.
The Power of Making Sense
Mark’s journey has been all about making sense of the chaos around him. He’s got what Dr. Gary Sanchez calls the “Make Sense” WHY, which is all about solving problems and breaking down complex situations into something everyone can understand. This is a skill that served him well as he transitioned from sales to coaching. In Mark’s words, “You help people get unstuck and move forward by helping them solve their problems.” It’s not about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about cutting through the noise and offering clarity. Whether you’re helping a client understand a product or trying to explain a new strategy to your team, this ability to make sense of things is a game-changer.
Building Relationships Like a Pro
Mark didn’t just wake up one day as a networking expert. It took years of trial and error, but he eventually figured out that the key to successful networking isn’t about how many business cards you can collect—it’s about building real, meaningful relationships. He talks about how niche networking events can be more valuable than large, generic ones because they allow you to connect with people who share your interests and goals. “At the end of the day, it was all about building relationships, getting referrals, and then it eventually started to be, then it became getting into the events,” Mark says. It’s a reminder that the quality of your connections often matters more than the quantity.
Social Media: Your Networking Secret Weapon
In today’s world, if you’re not leveraging social media for networking, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. Mark emphasizes how powerful these platforms can be for expanding your professional network. But it’s not just about blasting out posts and hoping for the best. Mark’s approach is more strategic—he’s all about using social media to build relationships and get referrals. He shares tips on how to engage with your audience in a way that’s authentic and valuable. “I got good at getting right to the point of, okay, I need one actionable idea from every interview I go into,” he explains. This focus on value-driven content is what sets successful networkers apart from those just going through the motions.
Mark J. Carter’s story is a testament to the power of making sense of things, building meaningful relationships, and using the tools at your disposal—like social media—to create success. His journey from introvert to networking pro is proof that you don’t have to be born with a “networking gene” to make it in this world. Instead, it’s about understanding your WHY, focusing on the relationships that matter, and continually learning from each experience.
So, if you’re looking to improve your networking skills or just want to hear some solid advice from someone who’s been there, done that, this episode is a must-listen. Head over to the podcast to catch the full conversation and start applying these insights to your own life. Your network—and your career—will thank you.
About Mark J. Carter
Mark has always been curious about how successful people got where they are in life. He has been interviewing successful people for 25 years, posting interviews online for 12 of those years. Each interview is a “how to” interview which means as a viewer/reader/listener you get actionable advice about how to grow personally and professionally.
Mark’s other projects include events and marketing initiatives. He has collaborated with TED’s founder Richard Saul Wurman to create a world-class conference and helped with branding for the world’s largest chapter of Meeting Professionals International (MPI). He has launched book tours and events for New York Times best-selling business authors, helping them share their big ideas with the world. Mark still enjoys interviewing people and posts many of the interviews on his YouTube station https://www.youtube.com/@markjcarter, his Idea Climbing podcast and Idea Climbing internet radio show.
Mark also serves as a podcast host for B2B organizations for entrepreneurs.
Mark’s interviews culminated in his recent book, “Idea Climbing: How to Create a Support System for Your Next Big Idea” www.IdeaClimbingBook.com
Guest: Jerome Myers WHY.os: Contribute – Make Sense – Trust
In this episode of the Beyond Your Why podcast, Dr. Gary Sanchez explores the WHY of Contribute through the experiences of Jerome Myers, a former award-winning engineer turned business strategist. Myers shares his journey from a young boy inspired by a garbage man’s work ethic to becoming a leader who strives to make a significant impact on the world. His story takes us from a fascination with engineering to a realization that his true passion lies in solving problems within businesses and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Myers discusses his corporate experiences, including leading a division from scratch to $20 million in revenue, and his transition into entrepreneurship, particularly in real estate. The episode delves into the importance of aligning one’s work with their core values, the challenges of navigating career transitions, and the fulfillment found in contributing to a greater cause.
Finding One’s Why: The importance of discovering and living by one’s core motivations.
Career Transition: Myers’ shift from engineering to entrepreneurship and real estate investment.
Impact and Contribution: The drive to make a significant difference in the lives of others and the community.
Leadership and Growth: Building and leading teams to achieve remarkable growth in the corporate and entrepreneurial worlds.
Overcoming Challenges: Navigating the obstacles of career changes and the journey of self-discovery.
Tune into this episode to delve into Jerome Myers’ inspiring journey and discover how aligning your career with your ‘why’ can lead to meaningful success and fulfillment.
02:20– Jerome Myers’ reaction to the Nine Whys 03:44 – Myers’ Why: Contributing to a Greater Cause 04:50 – Jerome Myers’ Background and Early Influences 07:58 – Transition from Engineering to Business Strategy 13:04 – Decoupling Time for Money: A Key Turning Point 15:44 – Leadership and Growth: From $0 to $20 Million 19:30 – The Human Side of Business: Challenges and Responsibilities 22:43 – Myers’ Post-Corporate Journey and Real Estate Ventures 25:54 – Introducing Jerome Myers’ Book: “Your Next” 30:35 – The Founder’s Exit Paradox and Finding Fulfillment 36:22 – Making an Impact Beyond Business Success 39:33 – The Importance of Knowing Your Why in Transitions
Listen to the podcast here
Jerome Myers’ Shift: From Engineering to Real Estate Success
Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming at your desk about a different life? Well, today, let’s dive into the story of Jerome Myers, a beacon for anyone considering a significant life pivot. His journey from being an award-winning engineer to a pioneering real estate entrepreneur isn’t just a tale of change; it’s a blueprint for daring to follow your passion.
Jerome Myers stands out because he dared to question the status quo. He’s the former engineer who looked beyond the accolades and the comfort of a steady paycheck to seek a path filled with purpose and impact. Faced with the realization that his true calling lay outside the confines of engineering, Jerome embarked on a quest for a more fulfilling career. His decision to enter the real estate industry was propelled by a desire to create lasting value in communities and to redefine success on his own terms.
In this Episode:
The importance of listening to your inner voice that yearns for more.
Effective strategies for transitioning between careers without losing your sense of direction.
How aiming to positively influence the lives of others can redefine your definition of achievement.
Jerome’s Story Unfolded
The Early Days
Jerome was where many find themselves: successful on paper but emotionally uninvested. His engineering career was marked by success after success, yet there was a void that professional achievements couldn’t fill. This sense of longing led him to question his career path, wondering if there was a way to blend success with satisfaction. Jerome’s realization that his passion lay not in the accolades but in the potential to enact real change was the first step towards a new horizon.
The Big Decision
Deciding to step away from a lucrative engineering career, Jerome ventured into the unpredictable world of real estate with little more than a vision and unyielding determination. This wasn’t merely a job switch; it was a fundamental shift in his life’s direction, akin to rewriting his personal and professional identity from scratch. Jerome’s story underscores the daunting nature of such a leap, but more importantly, it highlights the exhilarating sense of possibility that comes with pursuing what truly matters to you.
Making an Impact
In real estate, Jerome found his calling. His approach went beyond buying and selling; it was about crafting spaces that fostered community and connection. Through his ventures, he has demonstrated that profit and purpose can go hand in hand, inspiring others to consider how their work impacts the broader world. Jerome’s success in real estate is a testament to the idea that when you align your career with your values, the reward extends beyond financial gain to include personal fulfillment and societal contribution.
Why Jerome’s Story Matters
Jerome’s narrative is compelling because it touches on a universal truth: many of us crave work that feeds our soul as well as our bank account. It challenges the conventional wisdom that changing careers is too risky or that it’s too late to chase a dream. His journey is a powerful example of how redefining success on your own terms can lead to a more rewarding life, both professionally and personally.
Key Takeaways for a Fulfilling Career
Following your passion requires courage, especially when it means leaving behind the familiar.
Embracing change, though fraught with uncertainty, opens the door to unparalleled growth and satisfaction.
The true measure of success is found not in accolades and achievements, but in the impact you have on the world and the fulfillment you derive from your work.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Jerome Myers’ story is an invitation to reflect on what truly makes us happy and fulfilled. If his journey from the predictability of engineering to the dynamic world of real estate teaches us anything, it’s that the first step toward a more fulfilling career is believing in the possibility of change. Whether you’re contemplating a slight shift or a complete overhaul of your career, remember that the path to fulfillment is personal and fraught with challenges but infinitely rewarding.
Jerome Myers didn’t just change careers; he transformed his life by aligning his work with his deepest values. His story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue a path that brings joy and meaning into your life and the lives of those around you.
So, ask yourself: What change have you been dreaming of? More importantly, what’s stopping you from taking the first step toward that dream today? Remember, your journey to a more fulfilling career is just waiting to begin. Let Jerome Myers’ story be the nudge you need to take that leap.
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About Jerome Myers
An award-winning engineer turned business strategist, Jerome uses his rich experience and innate understanding of human emotions to ensure that your journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship is a fulfilling one.
At the helm of a division of a multibillion-dollar Fortune 550 company, Jerome created a thriving $20M operation with 175 dedicated team members. Now, he employs that expertise to advise leaders across diverse industries, from real estate to healthcare, guiding them to double their revenue, harmony in their work-life integration, and ramp up their charitable contributions.
His multifaceted experience also extends to the realm of real estate and academia. Jerome wears the hat of a general partner in a multifamily real estate portfolio and lends his strategic acumen to the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Entrepreneurship Advisory Board, driving entrepreneurial progress.
Kevin Thompson is a relationship-building expert and entrepreneur who has mastered the art of making authentic connections that drive success. With decades of experience, Kevin has helped countless business owners create meaningful partnerships by focusing on contribution and trust. In this episode, Kevin shares how his approach to business is rooted in helping others succeed first, which in turn fuels his own achievements.
Tune in now to hear Kevin’s straightforward advice on making a lasting impact.