The Playbook With David Meltzer

In today’s episode, I sit down with John Assaraf, a two-time New York Times bestselling author known for teaching people how to strengthen the brain’s “neuro muscles” through his concept of Innercise. John shares his personal transformation from a troubled teen to a committed student of personal growth after one life-changing question from a mentor. We explore how small, consistent actions can rewire thought patterns, build empowering habits, and unlock greater potential. John explains why visualization works, how habits form in the brain, and why reducing goals to the smallest possible steps creates lasting change. His story shows what’s possible when commitment replaces mere interest.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Victoria B. Lozano, Executive Vice President of Brand Marketing at Crayola, to talk about how creativity shapes our lives across generations. She shares how Crayola’s mission has always gone beyond crayons, focusing on wellness, education, and inspiring simple creative moments every day. We explore how creativity improves problem solving, critical thinking, and emotional well-being—not just for children, but for adults seeking stress relief and joy. Victoria also discusses Crayola’s Campaign for Creativity, the evolving role of digital tools, and how the brand continues to innovate while staying true to its purpose of making humans more human.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Christopher “Chip” Paucek, a visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of Pro Athlete Community (PAC). Chip shares how PAC provides a lifelong locker room for professional athletes, offering mentorship, coaching, and education that help them thrive well beyond their playing careers. We explore the unique challenges athletes face when the lights go out—judgment, isolation, and the struggle to find new purpose—and how PAC helps them channel the same grit and determination that carried them to the top of their sport into building fulfilling futures. Chip’s journey also reflects his own drive to keep learning, building, and giving back.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Sahil Bloom, investor, writer, and bestselling author of The Five Types of Wealth. We talk about the moment that shifted his perspective on success, when he realized time with loved ones was finite and worth protecting at all costs. Sahil shares how that decision led him and his wife to move across the country to be near family, and how he now views time as the ultimate form of wealth. We also explore compounding investments in health, relationships, and curiosity, the concept of anti goals, and the power of defining a life razor to create clarity in chaotic times.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dave Asprey, entrepreneur, author, and widely regarded as the father of biohacking. We talk about his new book Heavily Meditated and the tools he’s developed to help people reset their nervous systems, dissolve stress, and unlock inner peace. Dave explains how triggers are programmed into our bodies and how we can shut off the ones that no longer serve us. He also shares why recovery is often more important than stress itself, the science of sleep and jet lag, and why time as we know it may be an illusion.

In this episode, I share why the habits that have brought me the most success often go against what the world tells us. True growth doesn’t come from saying yes to everything, moving faster, or chasing perfection—it comes from small, consistent actions, slowing down to gain clarity, and creating space for what really matters. By learning to say no, trusting the power of compounding behaviors, and permitting yourself to pause, you’ll find that success becomes more sustainable and more fulfilling. To join my next free Friday Training sessions, email me at david@dmeltzer.com

In today’s episode, I explore how fear acts as a time traveler, pulling us into the past with guilt and regret or pushing us into the future with anxiety and doubt. I break down why fear can’t exist in the present and how grounding yourself in the now creates space for clarity, ease, and action. You’ll hear why canceling outdated patterns, clearing subconscious interference, and connecting to your deeper truth are critical steps in shifting from fear to faith. With practical tools and powerful mindset shifts, I share how to transform fear into fuel and unlock your full potential in every moment.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Liz Claman, the number one business news anchorwoman in America, for a conversation on staying grounded in an overwhelming world. Liz shares how she manages the relentless pace of information, her long-game approach to investing, and why disadvantage can be a surprising advantage. We discuss the importance of teaching kids the value of hard work, developing irreplaceable skills in the age of AI, and embracing the uncertainty that comes with building a career. From her early days ripping wire copy at 4 a.m. to thriving on a national stage, Liz’s journey is proof that grit never goes out of style.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Ross Mandel, a longtime Wall Street executive and entrepreneur, for a conversation about resilience, rebuilding, and the lessons that only come through adversity. Ross shares how losing his father at 16 shaped his worldview and his drive to create lasting impact. We talk about growing up with nothing, recovering from major losses, and why values matter more than appearances. I open up about my early years as a ball boy, my journey through wealth and bankruptcy, and how the teachings of Think and Grow Rich continue to shape my mission to help others stay grounded in intention and consistent action.

In today’s episode, I share how faith became my foundation when I hit rock bottom, and why combining it with wisdom creates unstoppable momentum. I break down the dangers of living in a zero sum game, the importance of asking uncomfortable questions, and how trust and vetting can prevent costly mistakes. You’ll hear why leading by example influences young people far more than lectures, the three lessons I give my kids, and how to focus on expanding your skills, knowledge, and desires instead of “pivoting.” From building confidence to applying your why with purpose, this conversation is about aligning with what truly moves you forward.