In this powerful and humbling episode, Bart connects across continents with Mumbere Dieme, a 27-year-old leader from the mountains of Western Uganda whose story redefines what it means to rise, serve, and give.
Mumbere grew up in a poor, war-torn region where sleeping on the ground and walking barefoot to school were not uncommon. His father—a struggling but steadfast pastor—taught him faith, kindness, and the importance of serving others, even when you have little. Through Compassion International, Mumbere was sponsored as a child, receiving not only education and medical care but also the belief that he could be more than his circumstances.
That gift of opportunity became his life’s mission. After earning his nursing degree, Mumbere chose not to pursue a hospital career. Instead, he returned home to rebuild a school that had once been destroyed by storms—reviving it under the shade of a single tree and growing it into the Kyarumba Joint Christian Orphanage, Nursery, and Primary School, now serving more than 100 children. Some students walk miles each day to attend. Some cannot afford shoes. But all are learning, laughing, and discovering hope because one man decided to lead with compassion instead of comfort.
What makes this story extraordinary is not only the miles that separate Bart’s suburban Virginia world from Mumbere’s mountainous village, but how kindness—and a shared belief in possibility—bridges the distance. This is not a story of charity. It’s a story of character, connection, and calling.
Major Takeaways
Memorable Quotes
“I used to sleep on the ground. Now I help children find a place to dream.”
“Those who have little can still give much. Sometimes hope is the only thing we own.”
“Most people don’t believe kindness can change a country—but it changed mine.”
“My father taught me to serve others, not to be served. That is where love begins.”
Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode is a reminder that impact doesn’t require wealth—it requires will. Every act of kindness ripples outward, touching lives you may never meet. Mumbere’s story challenges us to re-examine comfort, gratitude, and purpose.
Wherever you live—whether it’s the suburbs of Northern Virginia or the mountains of Western Uganda—you have the power to create hope. Sometimes that begins with a single connection, a single conversation, or a single decision to do what Most People Don’t… but YOU Do.
In this heartwarming and insightful episode of For All the Marblisms, Bart welcomes Chicago-based photographer and creative professional Will Byington. Together, they explore the intersection of creativity, resilience, entrepreneurship, and authenticity, highlighting the struggles and successes that shape a meaningful career.
Will’s story is not just about capturing photos—it’s about capturing life, emotion, and connection while navigating the evolving demands of being a creative entrepreneur in a digital age.
Will’s Journey: From Film Cameras to Rock Cruises
Entrepreneurial Lessons & Insights
“You’re not an entrepreneur if you don’t fail. You have to throw things atthe wall and learn.”
Will credits his success to being part of the experience, not just documenting it. His empathy, professionalism, and genuine care make him unforgettable.
“I’m not there to be paparazzi. I’m there to capture the experience without blocking someone else’s joy.”
Whether introducing himself to fans before a cruise or helping someone improve their phone photos, Will emphasizes presence, humility, and joy.
“Life is 80% showing up. And when you do, bring energy and curiosity.”
Will admits that self-doubt once kept him from teaching photography, fearinghe’d train away his own clients. He now sees teaching as empowering:
“Rising tides lift all boats. Helping others doesn’t take from you—it expands you.”
Will shares that being a freelancer means juggling roles—creative, legal, financial, HR, and marketing—all at once.
“Being a photographer is 90% business, 10% creativity. AI tools like Marblism help us flip that balance.”
AI, Efficiency & Creativity
Bart introduces Marblism, an AI-powered productivity assistant for entrepreneurs. Will reacts with curiosity and cautious optimism, seeing potential to regain time for creativity.
“If human interaction doesn’t make it better, let AI do it.” — Bart
“I’m on the AI train… maybe still in the caboose—but learning.” — Will
Key Themes & Takeaways
Closing Reflections
Will and Bart reflect on how creativity and kindness intersect:
“It’s not about the coffee—it’s about the people.”
“It’s not about the photos—it’s about the focus.”
Will reminds listeners to capture and print their memories, because physical photos hold emotional power.
“Print your pictures. Hold them. Share them. You never know how much they’ll mean someday.”
Connect with Will
Website: willbyington.com
Instagram: @willbyington
LinkedIn: Will Byington
Classes: shotclubphotoclass.com
Final Quote
“We’re never finished. We’re evolving, learning, and sharing.
We are living our dream while chasing our dream.” — Will Byington
Live from IMEX America in Las Vegas, Bart sits down with Kevin Brown — Senior Manager of Go-to-Market and Editorial Strategies at Alliants. From an unexpected encounter with a hotel CEO to building a career on creativity, Kevin shares how gut checks, human connection, and breaking norms have shaped his professional journey and his philosophy on hospitality.
Major Takeaways /Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
Resources and Links:
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This inspiring conversation with Denise dives into her extraordinary 40+ year career in the travel industry, her rebirth into health and wellness, and her daily commitment to walking 10 miles—over 1,172 consecutive days. From surviving trauma to creating three thriving businesses, Denise shares her journey of resilience, self-belief, and intentional living. Her story beautifully weaves together entrepreneurship, personal health, and a mindset of awe.
Major Takeaways / Learnings:
Memorable Quotes:
Why It Matters / How to Use It:
Denise’s story is a masterclass in intentional living: starting small, anchoring in personal rituals, and committing to yourself daily. Entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone feeling stuck can use her example to reset their habits—focusing on health, gratitude, and purpose. It’s a reminder that awe isn’t found on a screen; it’s found in how you live each day.
Connect with Denise:
Instagram: thehealthy_traveler
Email: TripPro@verizon.net
Special note: Denise embodies the spirit of “Most People Don’t… But YOU Do.” She doesn’t just talk about mindset and movement—she lives it.
In this debut episode of the new For All the Marbles series, sponsored by Marblism, Bart sits down with Doug Baarman—Senior Vice President of ConferenceDirect and founder of Team Baarman. Doug shares his journey from corporate leadership at Marriott International to becoming an entrepreneur. This conversation dives into the why behind his leap, the playbook he’s built to help others succeed, and the mindset required to build a fulfilling business—and life.
Major Takeaways / Learnings
1. Do It for the Right Reasons
2. Entrepreneurship Is About Structure, Not Just Passion
3. Mindset Over Perks
4. Surround Yourself with Support
5. Learn Relentlessly
6. Activity Drives Outcomes
7. Ego Down, Curiosity Up
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
For everyone: Share what you do with the world—confidence, not arrogance, builds opportunities.
In this episode, Bart sits down with Alex Koster live from IMEX America to explore his personal journey from driving tractors at 14 to becoming a global leader in competitive socialization experiences. Alex shares the “no compromise” philosophy behind F1 Arcade, how fun can be both inclusive and transformative, and why play might just be the next big thing in workplace learning and connection.
Major Takeaways / Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
Resources and Links:
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc
Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.
It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.
Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.
https://www.bartaberkey.com/wishes-inc-landing-page
In this deeply emotional and inspiring episode, Bart Berkey sits down with Mike Cooper, founder and CEO of Cooper Disposal in Cleveland, Ohio — a blue-collar entrepreneur who rose from an unstable childhood to build a thriving, values-driven waste-management business.
Their conversation—born from a spontaneous meeting in a Naples hotel lobby—unfolds into a raw and redemptive life story about grit, grace, and growth.
Key Themes & Takeaways
1. From Survival to Success
Mike grew up in Canton, Ohio, surrounded by hardship:
He earned a college scholarship, but at age 18 was shot four times during a fight outside a bar—an event that nearly ended his life and football dreams. Still, he says, “I didn’t know I was struggling until I saw the other side of the world.”
2. Breaking the Chain
Mike married his high-school sweetheart Sheila, who “saved his life.”
Her family showed him unconditional love and gave him a model of stability he had never known. Realizing he had to escape the violence of his hometown, he moved to Cleveland and began again—working three jobs and learning the waste business from the ground up.
“It took a village to raise me. Now I’m building a new one.”
3. Building Cooper Disposal
After years of sales success at BFI Waste, Mike cashed out his 401(k) and bought his own garbage truck. Broke but determined, he founded Cooper Disposal in his driveway.
He vowed that his company would stand on truth, service, and follow-through — promising customers, “If I say I’ll deliver, I will.”
He personally drove trucks, took service calls under fake aliases (“I’ll call the owner,” when he was the owner), and built the business through authenticity, reputation, and relentless work ethic.
“Most people talk about what they’re going to do. I just do it.”
4. Giving Back & Paying Forward
Mike brought his beloved Canton football traditions—team dinners, community pride, mentoring youth—to Avon, where he now lives.
He sponsors local programs, mentors young athletes, and regularly visits his old neighborhood to remind kids that “You can break the chain too.”
His success mantra blends humility and humor: “Talking trash all day—but always delivering.”
5. Mental Health, Vulnerability & Healing
For the first time publicly, Mike opens up about childhood abuse, lifelong anxiety, and recent therapy.
He describes his commitment to self-care and his decision to sponsor local mental-health initiatives in Avon:
“I’ve been running hard my whole life. It’s time to breathe and enjoy life.”
Bart connects with Mike on shared struggles panic attacks, performance pressure, and self-expectations and together they model masculine vulnerability and emotional honesty.
6. Faith, Family & Fulfillment
Mike’s story centers on faith, family, and gratitude:
Lessons for Listeners
🔗 Connect & Support
“You call, we haul.”
Follow Mike and his son Mitch on Facebook (Cleveland, Ohio) for creative ads, community updates, and their famous four-second Super Bowl commercial.
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
In this episode of Most People Don’t… But YOU Do!, Bart sits down with Dr. Fares Khalid Alaboud, Regional Director of Al Fares International Travel & Tourism. With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence and 15 years of experience in innovation and product leadership, Dr. Fares bridges travel, technology, and business strategy. From gratitude stones to groundbreaking AI applications in hospitality, this conversation blends personal storytelling with future-facing lessons on service, risk-taking, and curiosity.
💡 Major Takeaways / Learnings
💬 Memorable Quotes
✨ Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode reveals the intersection of technology and humanity: how AI can enhance, but never replace, gratitude, care, and human connection. Leaders and professionals can take away practical lessons on digital transformation, innovation, and customer service—while also being reminded to keep kindness, curiosity, and personal impact at the heart of their work.
Resources and Links:
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc
Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.
It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.
Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.
https://www.bartaberkey.com/wishes-inc-landing-page
In this episode of Most People Don’t…But YOU Do!, Bart Berkey sits down with Horst Schulze, co-founder of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, founder of Capella Hotel Group, and author of Excellence Wins. Widely recognized as one of the most influential leaders in modern hospitality, Schulze shares stories from his 65-year career, beginning as a teenage server’s assistant in Germany to reshaping the global standard of service. He offers profound lessons on leadership, technology, customer experience, marriage, vision, and living with high intent.
Major Takeaways / Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
Schulze’s wisdom extends far beyond hospitality. Leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals in any field can apply his principles: set a vision, act with excellence, honor human dignity, and align decisions with the good of all stakeholders. His approach to work, family, and purpose reminds us that success is not about shortcuts—it’s about relentless intent, self-management, and service.
Resources and Links:
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc
Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.
It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.
Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.
https://www.bartaberkey.com/wishes-inc-landing-page
In this special solo episode, Bart shares personal stories and lessons from his trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he was invited to speak at the KBLT Congress on travel and hospitality. From Lufthansa flight attendants anticipating a young family’s needs, to warm welcomes at immigration, to Ritz-Carlton staff redefining overdelivery, Bart explores what it means to personalize, customize, and truly notice people—whether clients, guests, or teammates.
Major Takeaways / Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode is a reminder that in a world where everyone is busy, the true differentiator is focus and intentionality. Whether in sales, service, or leadership, slow down long enough to notice, anticipate, and act. Build the systems and habits that allow you to go from simply delivering to truly overdelivering.
Resources and Links:
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc
Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.
It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.
Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.
https://www.bartaberkey.com/wishes-inc-landing-page
In this heartfelt episode, Bart sits down with Teresa Rohr, a travel designer with Pink Pineapple Travel, who has transformed her passion for teaching and helping others into a career that creates unforgettable travel memories. Teresa shares her journey from elementary school teacher to becoming a Cancer Aware Travel Advisor, where she helps families touched by cancer experience meaningful travel with compassion, empathy, and specialized care. Her story is one of kindness, resilience, and going beyond what “most people don’t.”
Major Takeaways / Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode reminds us that kindness and empathy aren’t extras—they’re essentials. Teresa shows us how small actions like a smile, a handwritten note, or thoughtful travel planning can transform lives. For those touched by cancer, her message is powerful: life doesn’t stop—keep living, keep traveling, keep creating memories. For all listeners, the lesson is clear: do what most people don’t—go the extra mile to help others feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Resources and Links:
Agency Website: www.PinkPineappleTravel.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-rohr-ba8b1b383/
Facebook Travel Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/5419554094780424
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc
Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.
It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.
Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.
https://www.bartaberkey.com/wishes-inc-landing-page
In this energizing and transparent episode, Bart Berkey sits down with Ulric Musset—founder of Marblism and creator of the AI assistant suite—to explore what it really means to create with purpose. From building his first website at age 12 to becoming the #1 product on Product Hunt, Ulric shares his journey of learning, failing, pivoting, and eventually creating a tool that saves people time, generates opportunity, and allows entrepreneurs to scale with AI-powered teammates.
The conversation dives into the why behind his work: not fame or fortune—but the simple joy of building something useful that helps others. If you’re a business owner, creator, or dreamer trying to do what “most people don’t,” this episode will open your eyes to what's possible when purpose meets persistence… and you finally get some help from Ava, Stan, Sonny, Rachel, and the rest of Ulric’s AI dream team.
💡 Major Takeaways / Learnings
💬 Memorable Quotes
✨ Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode is for entrepreneurs, solo founders, side-hustlers, and visionaries who are stuck doing it all themselves. If you’ve ever wished for a team but couldn’t afford one—this is your wake-up call. Ulric’s journey reminds us that tools born from pain often deliver the most purpose. Marblism isn’t just AI—it’s a co-worker that doesn’t sleep, complain, or ghost you mid-project.
Listen to learn how Ulric turned nerdy curiosity into scalable impact—and how you can too.
We’re sharing this technology tool with you, so you can expand your impact with fewer hours too!
Sign Up for Marblism
Use code MPD for 25% off.
What happens when a Bronx-born Division 1 athlete becomes one of the most trusted, admired, and emotionally intelligent leaders in the travel industry?
In this heartfelt and energizing episode, Bart sits down with Ray Snisky, Group President of ALG Vacations and Amstar DMC, for an unforgettable conversation about confidence, kindness, humility, and hope. Ray shares deeply personal stories—from growing up with food stamps and driving tow trucks at age 13, to leading teams through 9/11, the financial crisis, and COVID with optimism and calm. You’ll hear how sports, mentors, and a mindset of “nothing to lose, everything to give” shaped his leadership—and why vulnerability and values matter more than spreadsheets.
From launching the Kindness Conference to empowering teams with trust and autonomy, Ray gives a masterclass in people-first leadership and living with purpose.
Major Takeaways/ Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
If you lead people, want to become a better version of yourself, or are looking for proof that kindness is good business, this episode is your blueprint. Whether you're a CEO, coach, or just trying to stay grounded in hard times, Ray’s stories will reset your mindset—and reignite your hope.
Resources and Links
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
What happens when a simple subject line transforms your entire leadership approach? In this solo episode, Bart Berkey shares the profound moment when a three-word email—“BTW, good morning”—became a turning point in how he leads with humanity, not just hustle. This deeply personal story reveals why connection must come before direction, and how one assistant's courage sparked a lasting shift in Bart's leadership mindset.
Major Takeaways
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode challenges the default mode of leadership many fall into—prioritizing urgency over empathy. Whether you're managing a team or building relationships, the shift from task-first to people-first can unlock deeper trust, better collaboration, and higher performance. Try Bart’s 3P approach in your next email or 1-on-1, and watch your team’s response change.
Resources & Links:
What if your mood isn’t just in your mind—but in your gut? In this powerful episode, GI psychologist Dr. Daphne Spyropoulos of Cleveland Clinic explains the surprising science behind gut health, serotonin, shame, and self-talk. We unpack how social media affects our self-worth, whyyour inner critic might just be habit, and how small shifts in thought can change everything.
You’ll also hear the viral “cereal story” thatmakes neuroplasticity (rewiring your brain) easy to understand—and even easier to apply. If you’ve ever felt anxious, judged, or stuck in self-doubt, this conversation will show you how to build emotional resilience from the insideout.
Resource & Links:
We all carry a little hogwash — the untruths we’ve convinced ourselves are real.
In this solo episode, Bart unpacks the emotional and psychological baggage we carry disguised as “logic”: the thoughts like “I’m not good enough”, “They must be mad at me”, or “I always mess things up.” Spoiler alert:it’s all hogwash.
Through personal stories, science-backed insights, and a practical truth-vs-hogwash exercise, Bart guides listeners to recognize triggers, reject negative narratives, and rewrite their inner dialogue. You'll learn how small shifts in thought lead to big shifts in life — moving from stuck to stable, from fear to forward motion.
Major Takeaways & Lessons
80% of daily thoughts are negative, and 95% are repetitive. Labeling the false ones as “hogwash” helps break the cycle.
Thoughts like “I’m not good enough” or “They’re mad at me” feel real, but they’re often assumptions rooted in fear, not fact.
Make two columns. In one, list your negative self-talk (“hogwash”); in the other, write the truth that challenges it.
Hogwash often begins at the moment of emotional trigger. Recognizing the origin of the story helps you rewrite it.
Whether the trigger is from childhood or yesterday, your belief can shift. Start by noticing it, naming it, and replacing it.
Studies show that writing down worries moves them out of your subconscious, reducing repetitive, anxious thoughts.
Our brains are wired to detect threats. But when we call out hogwash, we make space for gratitude, hope, and awe.
Bart shares a personal story about childhood trauma and how identifying the untruths it planted helped him heal and help others.
Hogwash clouds our ability to see joy, hope, and potential. Recognizing and clearing it is what reveals the “glimmer.”
Everyone carries hogwash. The difference is: Most people don’t stop to question it — but you do.
Plus, Bart introduces the first step in his new “Trigger → Glimmer → Awe” framework — helping you feel better, do better, and be better.
Resource & Links:
What do a wholesale floral empire, the Bluetooth symbol, and 14 million monthly readers have in common? Michael Politz.
In this episode, Bart sits down with the endlessly curious and wildly creative founder of Food & Beverage Magazine. Michael shares his unbelievable path—from crafting the now-iconic Bluetooth logo to being mentored by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous legend Robin Leach, to growing one of the most influential publications in hospitality and F&B.
But the real magic? It started long before the media empire—when Michael, as a young man, sat at a local deli with wise, self-made grandfathers. He listened. He asked questions. And what they shared about work ethic, humility, and legacy would quietly shape every bold move he made after that.
This episode is a masterclass in curiosity, legacy, listening, and why most people don’t take the first step—but Michael always does.
Major Takeaways / Learnings
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It
This episode is a reminder that success starts with curiosity—and grows through listening, learning, and lifting others. Michael’s journey is proof that bold ideas are only half the battle. The other half? Paying attention to the wisdom around you.
Take action by:
• Asking better questions
• Listening like it matters (because it does)
• Capturing the wisdom of mentors
• Acting on what you hear
Michael did. And he built an empire because of it.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpolitz/
Food and Beverage Magazine - https://www.fb101.com/
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
This podcast episode is brought to you by Wishes.Inc
Wishes, Inc. is a transparent giving platform that lets donors see exactly where their money goes.
It rewards users with cashback and perks through virtual payment tools.
Fast, traceable, and efficient—Wishes makes doing good feel even better.
In this deeply personal and powerful conversation, Bart Berkey sits down with global speaker, activist, and content creator Spencer West — known for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on his hands and redefining what's possible. He is more than a gentleman without legs; he is a human being with heart.
Together, they explore what it means to be kind to yourself, how to ask for help, and why we must create space for others while owning our story. From his viral TikToks to his upcoming book Breaking Free, Spencer shares lessons on resilience, identity, burnout, leadership, and the power of showing up authentically.
Major Takeaways / Learnings
Leaders and changemakers often overlook self-kindness. Spencer reminds us: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Start by being gentle with yourself, especially in moments of stress or uncertainty.
Spencer shares moving stories—from climbing Indian temples to emotional breakdowns—that prove the most powerful leaders are the ones willing to be vulnerable and ask for help.
As a queer, disabled individual, Spencer chooses to speak out—not for attention, but to educate, advocate, and help others feel seen. “I could stay silent. But I won’t.”
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on his hands wasn’t just symbolic—it raised over half a million dollars to provide clean water for 12,500 people for LIFE. Purpose turns pain into impact.
While working for a nonprofit, Spencer traveled over 100 days a year and realized hustle culture had taken over. The pandemic forced a reset, teaching him to prioritize therapy, rest, and joy.
Help should be consensual. A well-meaning stranger once lifted Spencer’s wheelchair into a car without asking—violating trust and autonomy. Spencer’s advice: Offer. Pause. Respect the answer.
In hard times, don’t rush to solutions. Acknowledge what’s difficult. Sit in discomfort. Then gather your people and move forward together.
Spencer balances speaking, social media, and activism with family, fun, and fulfillment. He urges others to explore what they want and need—then pursue it unapologetically.
Spencer’s answer to Bart’s signature question hits home: “Most people don’t take the time to figure out what they want and need.” The first step toward fulfillment is pausing long enough to reflect.
Memorable Quotes
Why It Matters / How to Use It:
This episode is a guide for anyone navigating leadership, identity, burnout, or uncertainty. Spencer teaches us that real strength lies in vulnerability, listening, and authenticity. Whether you're managing a team, raising a family, or simply trying to make it through the day—Spencer’s story will move you to pause, reflect, and lead with heart.
Instagram - @spencer2thewest
TikTok - @spencer2thewest
Facebook - Spencer West (page)
Linktree - “spencer2thewest”
Website - Spencer2thewest.com
Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn
In this deeply human and heartfelt episode, Bart Berkey sits down with the legendary Edward Mady — author of Honing the Human Edge, former GM of The Beverly Hills Hotel and Hotel Bel-Air, and a true icon in luxury hospitality. From his humble beginnings in a family diner to leading 128 award-winning teams, Edward shares the powerful principle that shaped his leadership: crack the code of others’ hidden strengths and help them grow. With stories of grit, empathy, and purpose, this conversation is a masterclass in humanistic leadership and emotional intelligence.
________________________________________
Major Takeaways / Learnings:
________________________________________
Memorable Quotes:
________________________________________
Why It Matters / How to Use It:
This episode is a playbook for anyone who wants to lead with more empathy, resilience, and impact — whether in hospitality, business, or life. Edward reminds us that it’s not enough to manage people — we must see them, support them, and help them discover their own edge. Apply this by:
This is not just leadership — this is legacy.
Resources & Links:
In this inspiring episode, Bart Berkey sits down with Gavin Mlinar, CEO of Blacklisted Consulting and author of Yes, Your Way to Success. Why Don’t You? Gavin shares the remarkable story of how his upbringing, mindset, and resilience have driven him to negotiate billion-dollar contracts, become an endurance athlete, and launch his own company—all through one key trait: decisiveness.
Together, they unpack what it takes to keep going when most people quit, and how to act with confidence even when conditions aren’t perfect.
Major Takeaways / Learnings:
1. Most People Don’t Ask… But Gavin Does. Gavin landed on this podcast simply by reaching out with authenticity and persistence—something most people don’t do.
2. Rejection is Practice. Cold-calling 100 people a day at Merrill Lynch taught Gavin to normalize “no.” He reframed rejection as part of the process, not a signal to stop.
3. Decisiveness Is a Superpower. According to his book coach (also a therapist), Gavin is one of the most decisive people they’ve ever met—and that’s what makes him different.
4. Forget Perfect—Take Action. Waiting for the perfect moment or perfect plan often leads to stagnation. Gavin encourages forward momentum over perfectionism.
5. Two Steps to Progress: 1) Research and validate through resources and conversations. 2) Make a decision, take action, and adjust along the way.
6. Ask for Help. Often. Most people don’t ask—but most people are predisposed to help when asked. Gavin encourages breaking through that hesitation.
7. Effort + Attitude = Progress. Gavin teaches his kids—and lives himself—by these two values. You don’t need perfection, just consistent energy and a positive mindset.
Memorable Quotes:
1. “Most people don’t ask for help. But most people are predisposed to help when asked.” – Gavin Mlinar
2. “There are very few things in life that are final. Failure is just learning in disguise.” – Gavin
3. “You get to wake up early. You get to catch that flight. That shift in mindset is everything.” – Bart Berkey
4. “Most people don’t… say yes.” – Gavin Mlinar
Why It Matters / How to Use It:
Listeners will walk away with practical tools to become more decisive, more resilient, and more open to opportunities. Gavin’s approach—research, then act—can be applied to anything from writing a book to launching a business, asking for a promotion, or learning how to surf.
His mindset of saying "yes" before conditions are perfect is a challenge to the perfectionist in all of us and his emphasis on attitude and effort is a reminder that consistency and courage can unlock extraordinary results.
Resources & Links:
Fill in the Blank:
Most people don’t…
" say yes. "