10 Conversations That Changed My Business And My Life

Sep 16, 2025

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Brian Thompson marks a major milestone with Episode 100 of the Mission Driven Business podcast! In this special retrospective, Brian reflects on 10 standout episodes that made a lasting impact and continue to resonate in his business and life. Whether you're new to the podcast or a long-term listener, Episode 100 captures the heart of the conversations that Mission Driven Business is all about.

Episode Highlights 1. Mike Michalowicz put profit first

In Episode 7, Mike Michalowicz flipped the traditional profit formula, redefining how business owners can approach cash flow. Mike's episode gave language and structure for something many business owners struggle with.

2. Brian Thompson opened up on the mic

In Episode 8, Brian got personal about how and why he started his own firm, Brian Thompson Financial. It was the first time he allowed himself to really be open on the mic, talking about fear, imposter system, and the drive to create something meaningful.

3. George Kinder asked the right questions

In Episode 14, George Kinder's thoughtful and grounded presence shone through as he advocated for life planning, which connects a financial plan to an individual's most meaningful goals. His three Kinder Questions have helped many people get clear about what they want their lives to look like.

4. River Nice led with empathy

In Episode 20, River spoke so clearly about how marginalized communities -- especially the LGBTQ+ community -- experience guilt or shame around money. The episode is a powerful reminder that empathy can be a superpower.

5. Anjali Jariwala wrote a new entrepreneurial story

In Episode 42, Anjali Jariwala shared how she built a thriving financial planning firm, only to turn around and write a children's book that broke sales records. It's a powerful reminder you can build whatever business you want -- and that your business can evolve with your creativity.

6. Krish Himmatramka proposed using profit for good

In Episode 57, Shark Tank alum Krish Himmatramka proved you can build a business for-profit and for-impact. His ethical engagement ring company commits to its values every step of the way.

7. LaSean Smith talked to 100 customers

In Episode 69, LaSean Smith advised new entrepreneurs to have 100 conversations in order to build a business that people actually want to use. If you're early in your business, LaSean's advice is clear, tactical, and values-based.

8. Hugo E. Gomez looked before he leaped

In Episode 79, Hugo E. Gomez tested his business idea and built a proof of concept before making the leap to full-time entrepreneurship.Now his business is thriving by serving a market overlooked by mainstream brands.

9. Channyn Lynne Parker taught philosophy

In Episode 83, Channyn Lynne Parker got poetic, talking about purpose, letting your path unfold, and trusting yourself even when it's hard. But Channyn really stands out for turning the children's song "Row, row, row your boat," into a life philosophy.

10. Masami Sato showed that small actions make a big impact

In Episode 93, Masami Sato shared how she started her company with a toddler in her kitchen and built it into a global force for good. Her company, B1G1, is built on the idea that small actions, done consistently, can change the world.

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About Brian and the Mission Driven Business Podcast

Brian Thompson, JD/CFP, is a tax attorney and Certified Financial Planner® who specializes in providing comprehensive financial planning to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who run mission-driven businesses. The Mission Driven Business podcast was born out of his passion for helping social entrepreneurs create businesses with purpose and profit.

On the podcast, Brian talks with diverse entrepreneurs and the people who support them. Listeners hear stories of experiences, strength, and hope and get practical advice to help them build businesses that might just change the world, too.