Send us a text

Licensed social worker and certified financial social worker Bas Moreno joins John to unpack the real-life money pressures of the sandwich generation—caring for kids and aging parents—while building toward financial freedom. Bas shares how loss, single income stretches, and debt shaped his mindset, why he now teaches life insurance, estate planning, and Social Security survivor benefits as non-negotiables, and how to “play the game without losing your integrity.” We also hit on credit rebuilding, first-gen homeownership, starting a business, and the power of networking to create opportunities. Stick around for Bas’s rapid-fire on legacy, integrity, and the #1 first step to your walk to wealth: start.

Guest: Bas Moreno, LMSW, CFSW — Certified Financial Social Worker; host of The Social Work Rants Podcast; author of Trying Through Pain. His work centers people of color navigating caregiving, mental health, and money.

Highlights: defining wealth as time with family and residual income, not hustle for hustle’s sake; discovering survivor benefits for his kids after tragedy and using life insurance to cover costs; rebuilding credit post-divorce and diving into financial literacy circa 2020; pivoting into financial social work and normalizing conversations about wills, trusts, and avoiding GoFundMe funerals.

Connect with Bas: IG/Threads @BasMorenoConsulting; Social Work Rants Podcast on YouTube & all platforms; book Trying Through Pain on Amazon/Spotify/Libro.fm; site: BasMorenoConsulting.net (in progress).

Disclaimer: Educational only; not financial advice.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this episode of the Walk 2 Wealth podcast, host John Mendez welcomes Jenny Berger, a heart-centered marketer and wellness advocate. They discuss the true meaning of wealth, which Jenny defines as health, especially after her personal health transformation during the pandemic. Jenny shares her journey of losing 110 pounds and emphasizes the importance of holistic wellness, mobility, and the cultural influences on food. They also explore the concept of Ikigai, the significance of personal branding in real estate, and the evolving landscape of marketing in the age of AI. The conversation wraps up with Jenny's insights on creating impactful content and the importance of alignment in life and work.

Takeaways

• Wealth is defined as health and well-being.
• Personal health transformations can lead to greater clarity and purpose.
• Holistic wellness encompasses physical, spiritual, and emotional health.
• Mobility is crucial as we age and face physical challenges.
• Cultural backgrounds influence our relationship with food and health.
• The concept of Ikigai helps in finding one's purpose.
• Attention spans may not be shorter, but competition for attention has increased.
• Personal branding is essential in today's marketing landscape.
• AI is changing the marketing game, but authenticity remains key.
• Alignment in mind, body, and spirit is necessary for true abundance.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this episode of the Walk 2 Wealth Podcast, host John Mendez engages in a deep conversation with Jon King, a veteran and entrepreneur. They explore the evolving definition of wealth, emphasizing experiences over material possessions. Jon shares his upbringing, the importance of work ethic, and how his military background shaped his entrepreneurial journey. The discussion also highlights the significance of creative outlets, the impact of reality TV on business growth, and the joy of helping others achieve their dreams. Throughout the conversation, they touch on personal development, community support, and the unique paths to success.

Takeaways

• Wealth is defined by experiences, not just money.
• Work ethic is crucial and can be learned from a young age.
• Transitioning from military to entrepreneurship requires strategic thinking.
• Creative outlets are essential for personal fulfillment.
• Reality TV can provide unique opportunities for business growth.
• Helping others achieve their dreams brings personal joy.
• Success is subjective and varies for each individual.
• Community support is vital for small businesses.
• Patience is a key lesson in life and business.
• Integrity is an admirable trait that fosters trust.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Wisdom Wednesday, I talk about one of the biggest mistakes first-time entrepreneurs make: trying to do everything by themselves. I break down why the “self-made” badge slows your growth, keeps you stuck in the same problem loop, and makes an already lonely journey even lonelier.

Here’s what I cover:

• The hidden costs of DIY: slower results, repeated mistakes, and burnout.
• Why community and mentors help you spot root causes—and fix them faster.
• The pride/victim trap (“no one helped me”) and how to escape it by asking better questions.
• My own mentor timeline: from cold-emailing my first mentor to hosting a 200+ person class four months into real estate, to the coach who helped me hit a $20K day—and coached me through a rough 2024.
• Opportunity cost vs. price tags (and the “ignorance tax” Alex Hormozi talks about).

If you want to go far, go together. Find people who’ve done what you want to do, plug into a solid community, and let their playbooks shorten your path.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Wisdom Wednesday, I share how “being creative” quietly kept me stuck.

I was juggling real estate, teaching social media classes, working a restaurant job, and running this podcast—four lanes, zero traction.

Everyone said, “You’re doing great for your age,” but my bank account told a different story.

In this episode, I break down why too many ideas = no progress, how comparing yourself to average creates a false sense of accomplishment, and why dabbling makes it take longer to learn if something actually works.

Then I give you the fix that changed everything for me: FOCUS = Follow One Course Until Success.

You’ll learn:

• How I picked one lane and set a 12-month commitment.
• My “Yes… and not right now” rule to kill distractions.
• Why focus gives you more energy, clearer feedback, and a stronger personal brand.
• A simple accountability plan you can start today.

If you’re serious about building wealth and momentum in your 20s, pick one path and go all in.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Road to Wealth update, I share a big move I just made in my business—I switched brokerages. I break down why I left Keller Williams for eXp, how it aligns with my AI teaching brand, and the opportunities it opens up (more stages, more rooms, more impact).

I also get into my money game plan and the exact steps I’m taking to dig out of debt and rebuild my credit.

Here’s what I cover:

• The real reasons I moved to eXp (access, speed, and distribution for my classes).
• My debt update and why I’m moving forward with a debt management program to slash interest and free up cash flow.
• How I’m funding the first payment, plus the monthly plan I’ll use to attack balances faster.
• Why my credit score dipped—and how I’m fixing the payment date vs. closing date mistake.
• The cash-flow plays I’m running next: paid keynote, a two-day public speaking workshop, a birthday event to fill September seats, BNI subbing, and a monthly AI masterclass to funnel into my mastermind.
• How I’m ramping Q4: getting “Train the Presenter” certified, booking more office talks, and launching live with new partners.

If you’re in the trenches—juggling business pivots, debt payoff, and a comeback plan—this episode gives you the real numbers, the mindset, and the moves I’m making next. Follow along as I document the climb, one decision at a time.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Wisdom Wednesday, I speak directly to the fellas. I’m breaking down why so many “alpha male” gurus online are the wrong role models—and what to look for instead as you build your life, faith, and business.

I share how chasing status, cars, and clout leads to shallow wins, why parroting other people’s opinions stunts your growth, and how asking God for discernment helps you spot red flags, choose better rooms, and protect your future.

Here’s what I cover:

• The difference between being weird (quirky) and a weirdo (red flag).
• Why money + muscles ≠ maturity (and how to gauge real character).
• How materialism empties you out—and what to pursue instead.
• Practical ways to ask God for discernment and apply it at events, in DMs, and in deals.
• Building on values so you attract the right friends, partners, and opportunities.

If you’re a young man focused on purpose, faith, and real success—not internet posturing—this one will help you move smarter.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Road to Wealth update, I’m keeping it 100 about a tough month: my total debt went up by $769.76 since my last check-in, bringing me to $49,416.12 across personal and business cards.

I break down exactly where the balances sit today and why interest ate my progress.

I also walk through a real option I’m considering: a debt management program with Money Management International (MMI) that would drop my monthly payments from $1,590 to $1,214 in month one and $1,144 after—about $446/monthback in my pocket.

I talk through the trade-offs, like closing my cards (goodbye points and Marriott status… for now), but also slashing interest so more money actually hits principal.

You’ll hear my due-diligence process, the difference between consolidation loans vs. programs, how payments would be routed, and why I set a follow-up for August 15 before deciding.

If you’re in the trenches with credit cards, this episode gives you the numbers, the pros/cons, and the mindset I’m using to dig out—skills over status, progress over pride, and facts over feelings.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Wisdom Wednesday episode, I’m getting real about one of the most underrated growth hacks: solitude. If you’ve ever felt torn between locking in and going out, this episode is for you.

I break down why your fear of being alone might be the very thing holding you back from reaching your full potential. From my own experience—dropping out of college during a pandemic, working two jobs, and grinding for my real estate license—I share how isolation became the launchpad for massive growth in my 20s.

Here’s what you’ll hear:

• The difference between loneliness and intentional solitude
• Why constant socializing could be slowing your success
• How taking a “sprint season” in solitude gave me the clarity and discipline to level up
• The importance of getting off the grid to tune in to your own voice (and maybe even hear from God)

This isn’t about being antisocial—it’s about knowing when to retreat so you can come back stronger. If you’re serious about chasing your goals, it's time to get comfortable being alone.

👉 Ready to level up your mindset and build wealth in your 20s? Tap play.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Road to Wealth update, I break down a simple credit card mistake that was quietly hurting my score: confusing the payment date with the closing date.

I share how I’m tracking my debt week by week, what’s actually moving the needle, and the rule I’m using to keep my utilization in check.

You’ll hear why paying on the payment date isn’t enough if you swipe again before the closing date, how I’m treating my credit card like a debit card, and the target utilization I’m aiming for to rebuild my score.

I also talk about what I’m doing to simplify payments, reduce balances across personal and business cards, and keep steady momentum without burning out.

If you’re early in your money journey and want practical, real-time lessons you can use today, this one’s for you.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this Wisdom Wednesday episode, I dive deep into a dangerous mindset many smart people fall victim to — being toosmart for their own good. If you’ve ever felt like your degrees or knowledge should automatically earn you respect or success, this one’s for you.

I explore how relying too heavily on book smarts can actually limit your awareness, kill your self-awareness, and make you less approachable. I break down 5 hard truths about intellectual arrogance and how it can quietly sabotage your growth — in business, relationships, and life.

You’ll also hear how a Bible verse and a powerful Socrates quote shook me out of my own ignorance — and how leaning less on my own understanding helped me rebuild my mindset (and my finances) after hitting a major low.

Whether you're chasing financial freedom, building a brand, or leveling up in life, this episode will help you adopt the wisdom, humility, and curiosity you need to grow — and get out of your own way.

👉 If you're a young entrepreneur or ambitious creative who’s been stuck thinking, “I should know this by now,” tune in — this perspective shift might just change everything.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this powerful episode of the Walk 2 Wealth Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with two inspiring guests—my returning friend Dana Cadena and first-time guest Jio Baral. Together, they’re building something extraordinary that goes far beyond business.

Jio shares his deeply personal journey of growing up in poverty in the Philippines, losing his father at 17, and finding opportunity as a virtual assistant without ever attending college. Fast forward to today, and he's not just Dana’s right hand—he’s co-founder of Overachiever Admin Services, helping other talented VAs find purpose, clients, and financial independence.

Dana and I dive deep into what it really means to scale as an entrepreneur, the myth of “no one can do it better than me,” and the freedom that comes from hiring the right people. If you're looking to build generational wealth, learn the art of delegation, or simply hear how someone went from surviving to thriving, this one’s for you.

We also talk about:

• Why great people are your biggest ROI
• Turning admin tasks into scalable impact
• The importance of respecting your time AND your team
• Growing a business with heart, vision, and global reach

This episode is a masterclass in leadership, personal growth, and how to build wealth from anywhere in the world—even if you're starting with nothing.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this episode of the Walk 2 Wealth Podcast, I sat down with Russell Rogers — author, speaker, coach, and founder of Move Today 365 — for a powerful conversation that completely redefined the way I look at wealth.

Russell shares his journey from being a college athlete to a youth pastor, orphanage worker, landscape entrepreneur, and now a published author with 13 books under his belt. We dive deep into his belief that true wealth is built through meaningful relationships, intentional living, and consistent action.

We also explore:

• The power of saying "no" and staying aligned with your goals
• Why self-awareness is the foundation of growth
• How community and connection are central to generational wealth
• His journey of becoming more intentional after 50 and launching new projects like Community Strides
• What wealth means beyond money — and how to achieve it through service, movement, and mission-driven living

If you're on your own walk to wealth and want to create a life of purpose, abundance, and impact, this conversation will inspire you to take that first step — and keep walking with intention.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this special follow-up episode, I’m joined once again by my good friend and fellow TEDx speaker, Dr. Julie Siemers—a 45-year veteran in the nursing field turned first-time entrepreneur. Julie returns to share the incredible progress she’s made since our last conversation, including the launch of her innovative course platform “LifeBeast Solutions,” designed to close the knowledge gaps in nursing that contribute to the third leading cause of death in the U.S.—medical error.

We talk about everything from our unforgettable TEDx experience in Stamford to her recent speaking engagement in San Diego, where she integrated AI into her patient safety framework. Julie also opens up about how AI has become her secret weapon for launching 28+ courses, preparing for hospital licensing deals, and even translating content for international collaborations.

If you care about healthcare, innovation, or building generational wealth through purposeful entrepreneurship, you don’t want to miss this one. Julie’s journey is a masterclass in combining passion, purpose, and technology to make a real impact.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this episode of the Road to Wealth series, I break down exactly how I paid off over $3,000 in personal debt in just one week. I share what worked, what flopped, and how a failed $100K-in-a-day challenge still taught me priceless lessons.

You'll hear about:

• My live speaking gig and what it taught me about valuing your time
• Why only 2 of 12 tickets sold didn’t shake me
• How credit cards really work (and what I wish I knew earlier)
• The plan I’m using to pay off my highest interest cards first
• The little-known trick to boost your credit score through strategic disputes
• The mindset that keeps me moving forward, even when progress feels slow

Whether you’re drowning in debt, trying to build your brand, or both, this series is your real-time look at what it takes to chase financial freedom—one step (and one setback) at a time.

🎯 Keywords: personal finance 101, how to build wealth in your 20s, financial independence, pay off debt fast, credit card tips

Subscribe so you don't miss the next update on my journey to wealth.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In today's Wisdom Wednesday, I break down the powerful truth behind the phrase "bad company corrupts good character." Growing up, I heard sayings like "show me your friends, and I'll show you your future," but it took real-life lessons—some hard and uncomfortable—to truly understand how critical this advice is.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why tolerating bad behaviors around you eventually leads you down the wrong path.
• The painful real-life examples from my own life about how being around the wrong friends got people I care about into trouble.
• Six practical reasons why bad company always ends up pulling you down (including a lesson straight from my grandma!).
• The simple but life-changing solution to finding and keeping good company.

Whether you're trying to break free from toxic relationships, align yourself with better influences, or simply figure out who to keep close as you level up—this episode is your wake-up call.

🎯 Keywords: personal growth, financial independence, good character, entrepreneurship tips, young entrepreneurs, biblical wisdom, mindset shift, how to build wealth in your 20s.

Tune in every Wednesday for a fresh dose of wisdom to help you build lasting success—spiritually, mentally, and financially!

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

At 23 years old, I’ve learned that the path to generational wealth, happiness, and financial independence is never a straight line. In this powerful episode of the Walk 2 Wealth Podcast, I sit down with Ngo Okafor—a two-time Golden Gloves boxing champion, fitness entrepreneur, and founder of 28 Days Greater.

But Ngo’s journey didn’t start with a six-pack and success. He grew up a sickly child in Nigeria, battling asthma and a rigid family belief that education—not entrepreneurship—was the only way out. By 15, he was in college. By 18, he realized something vital: he wasn’t fulfilled.

From corporate layoffs to modeling rejections to building a one-of-a-kind gym in the heart of NYC, Ngo shares the raw truth behind chasing fulfillment, finding your purpose, and building a life that feels as good as it looks.

We talk about:

• How to pivot when life derails your plan
• Turning rejection into redirection
• The mindset shift that separates the dreamers from the doers
• What it really takes to build wealth in your 20s
• Why the pursuit of happiness is your ultimate ROI

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, identity, and finding meaning beyond money.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

In this brutally honest solo episode of the Walk 2 Wealth Podcast, I open up like never before.

I reveal my exact financial situation—including how I racked up over $50,000 in credit card debt by 23. From maxed-out personal and business cards to a plummeting credit score and closed accounts, I break down the raw numbers, the mistakes that got me here, and the emotional toll of navigating this season.

But this isn’t just about the debt—this is about redemption.

You’ll learn:

• Why I don’t regret dropping out of college (even though I’m worse off financially… for now)
• How I’m using the debt snowball method to fight my way out
• What I’ve learned about money, mindset, and discipline
• Why most people avoid these conversations—and why I refuse to stay silent

If you’ve ever felt ashamed of your financial situation or overwhelmed by debt, this episode is for you. It’s the start of a transparent journey to rebuild credit, restore peace of mind, and walk the road to wealth—one step at a time.

🔑 Let’s make money a conversation, not a taboo.
📈 Let’s build the habits now so we can afford the life we dream of later.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

I’m super excited to bring you this episode featuring my friend Amanda Whitespeare—mom of three, powerhouse entrepreneur, and real estate mogul based in Houston, Texas. Amanda’s story is one of courage, clarity, and breaking the mold. She was on track to become a doctor, even had her med school plans lined up… until a moment of truth changed everything.

In this episode, Amanda walks us through her journey from a traditional “get good grades, go to school” upbringing to building a multi-business real estate empire. She shares how she made $180K her first year in real estate, why she ditched burnout culture, and how motherhood pushed her to build a business that supports—not sacrifices—her family life.

We dive into how she scaled from hustling glow sticks in parking lots as a kid to running a 1,000-agent downline, launching a title company, and embracing multiple streams of income. Amanda breaks down how to shift from being a solo agent to a business owner and how to actually retire from real estate—something most agents never do.

If you’ve ever wrestled with the pressure to play it safe or questioned whether it’s “too late” to pivot, this conversation will light a fire under you.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI

Send us a text

Welcome to the very first episode of Wisdom Wednesdays, a new series on the Walk 2 Wealth podcast where I’ll be sharing the real, raw, and relevant life lessons I’m learning on my personal journey to wealth — especially as someone who didn’t grow up with financial literacy.

In this kickoff episode, I talk about:

• Why so much advice online is either bad, worldly, or surface-level
• The difference between wisdom and information (and why it matters)
• The story of King Solomon and what it teaches us about true success
• My current financial situation (spoiler: I’m still in the trenches)
• What to expect from this new weekly series

If you’ve ever felt lost in a sea of contradictory advice and want biblical, practical, and time-tested wisdom to help guide you — this is for you.

Support the show

👇 Take your next step toward leveling up:

→Join John's Live Challenge today←
https://www.aiwontreplacemechallenge....

John's Freebies
AI Newsletter
https://www.stopandstare.media/blog

AI Starter Kit
https://www.stopandstare.media/AI