The Circuit of Success Podcast with Brett Gilliland

In this episode of The Circuit of Success, Brett Gilliland sits down with leadership coach and author Croft Edwards to explore what truly drives success in today’s fast-changing world. While many are focused on external factors like technology and AI, Croft makes a compelling case that the real challenge leaders face is internal. From his background in the military to decades of coaching top performers, he shares why mastering yourself is the foundation of effective leadership.   Croft introduces his powerful concept of the “Liquid Accordion,” explaining how our thoughts, emotions, and physical state constantly expand and contract, shaping how we see the world. He breaks down how resentment, ambition, and self-awareness impact decision-making, and offers practical ways to shift your mindset, build trust, and lead with intention. This conversation challenges the idea of “truth” and highlights how our perspective influences everything from relationships to performance. You’ll also learn Croft’s daily practices for growth, including the importance of staying a beginner, focusing on what you can control, and treating life as a constant practice. From building discipline through routine to betting on yourself in uncertain moments, this episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to level up their life and leadership.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of the Circuit of Success F to the 6th Power Podcast, host Brett Gilliland is joined by Tim Hammett, Scott Vieregge, Jason Baldus, Dan Laure, Ted McNulty, and Katie Martin for a powerful conversation on what it truly takes to succeed in life. From faith and Easter reflections to real-world discussions on discipline, mindset, and personal growth, this episode breaks down the core principles behind living a purpose-driven life. The F6 concept comes to life through honest, practical insights that anyone can apply.   The group dives into the daily habits that shape long-term success, including fitness routines, nutrition, time management, and building consistency. Jason Baldus shares real strategies around discipline and health, while others highlight the importance of being intentional with your time, staying present with your family, and creating structure in the middle of busy schedules. These conversations are simple, relatable, and focused on actions that actually move the needle. Beyond success in business or fitness, this episode emphasizes what matters most—faith, family, and meaningful connection. From one-on-one time with your kids to building traditions and staying grounded in your values, the group shares real-life experiences that hit home. With a mix of humor, life lessons, and practical challenges, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to grow in every area of your life and start building your own version of success.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of the Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with speaker, author, and creative mastermind Kyle Scheele. Known as the “Patron Saint of Crazy Ideas,” Kyle has built a career turning bold concepts into viral projects that capture global attention. With more than 250 million video views and features in major publications like Fast Company and The Washington Post, Kyle shares the mindset that helped him turn creativity into a powerful platform for impact.   Kyle dives deep into the myth that creativity is reserved for artists and innovators. Instead, he explains why creativity is simply problem-solving and how anyone can unlock it by collecting inspiration, connecting ideas, and taking action. From hosting a viral fake marathon with thousands of participants to burning 21,000 regrets in a massive Viking funeral project, Kyle reveals how unconventional ideas can spark meaningful conversations and inspire people to let go of fear, regrets, and limiting beliefs. This conversation also explores how fear of embarrassment stops many people from sharing their brilliance with the world and why launching imperfect ideas is often the key to breakthrough success. Kyle shares practical strategies for cultivating curiosity, capturing ideas, and living a story worth telling. If you’ve ever held back a big idea or questioned your creativity, this episode will challenge you to think differently and start bringing your ideas to life.   Watch the Full Episode Here!  

In this episode of the Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with performance coach Joel Staley to discuss how high-performing men can unlock the next level of their energy, focus, and leadership. Joel works with business owners, executives, and leaders to uncover hidden gaps in their routines that quietly drain performance, helping them lead their teams, families, and businesses at the highest level.   Over the years, Joel has worked with more than 2,000 high-performing men who appear successful on paper but still feel drained, distracted, or stuck in habits that limit their stamina and results. As a pro-physique competitor, author, podcaster, and business owner, Joel combines evidence-based health routines, performance systems, and mindset strategies to help clients become sharper, more disciplined, and more capable of handling the pressures of leadership. Joel also shares his personal story of resilience, including surviving late-stage cancer while continuing to run his business and raise his family. Throughout the conversation, he explains how small but intentional changes in daily routines, mental conditioning, and identity can create massive breakthroughs in energy, focus, and overall performance for high achievers.     Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of the Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with entrepreneur Tom Fields, founder and CEO of FYNANCIAL, to discuss his journey from financial advisor to fintech founder. Tom shares how his experience working directly with clients revealed problems within the financial services industry and inspired him to build a technology platform designed to help financial firms better serve their clients.   Tom also dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, including the risks of leaving a stable career, the challenges of building a company from the ground up, and the mindset required to push through difficult seasons. He explains the importance of discipline, daily habits, and the values he lives by, including what he calls the “Five F’s” – faith, family, finances, friends, and fitness. The conversation also explores the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and how it will transform the financial industry. Tom shares why he believes AI, data, and technology platforms will reshape the future of financial services and why entrepreneurs and professionals must learn to adapt quickly in order to stay competitive in a rapidly changing world.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

On this episode of the Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Corey Schonhorst for an honest and impactful discussion about control, confidence, rejection, and daily discipline. Corey shares his journey from growing up with emotional armor built in childhood to discovering how letting go of control transformed his mindset. They dive deep into how fear, cynicism, and self-doubt can keep us stuck — and why embracing discomfort is the key to growth. Corey opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, how rejection became a tool for learning instead of a setback, and why gratitude, faith, and consistent routines laid the groundwork for his success. From journaling worries to reframing daily challenges, this conversation is packed with real wisdom on how to stay focused on purpose instead of fear. If you’re ready to take responsibility for your mindset and daily habits, this episode will give you clarity and motivation. Brett and Corey also explore practical tools for handling anxiety, building confidence through action, and pushing toward your goals with intention. Whether you’re facing personal fears, professional hurdles, or the daily grind, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you move forward with resilience and purpose. Connect with Corey and follow his journey: Instagram and  LinkedIn   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of the Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland dives into the second installment of the F to the 6th Power framework: faith, family, fitness, firm, fun, and finances. Joined by Scott, Dan, Jason, and Tim, this conversation breaks down practical habits that help high performers stay grounded, disciplined, and intentional in every area of life. From daily prayer routines to tracking nutrition and setting quarterly goals, this episode is packed with actionable strategies. On the faith side, the team discusses building a consistent morning routine, using Bible apps, guided prayer, journaling, and reading powerful books like Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis, Chase the Lion by Mark Batterson, and Atomic Habits by James Clear. They share how 10 minutes a day with God can reduce anxiety and create lasting peace. If you struggle with consistency, busy schedules, or staying spiritually focused, this segment offers simple and realistic steps. The episode also covers staying present with your spouse and kids, eliminating distractions, planning meaningful time together, building gratitude through the 3-2-1 journaling method, and transforming your health through disciplined nutrition tracking using tools like MyFitnessPal. Whether you’re a business owner, leader, parent, or entrepreneur, this conversation will challenge you to stop making excuses and start living intentionally. Success isn’t accidental. It’s built daily. Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of the Circuit of Success, host Brett Gilliland sits down with Shawn Walchef, founder of Cali BBQ Media, restaurateur, and a leading voice in storytelling and digital hospitality. Raised by his Bulgarian immigrant grandfather, Shawn shares the foundational lessons that shaped his life and leadership: stay curious, get involved, and ask for help. These principles became the backbone of his entrepreneurial journey and continue to guide how he builds businesses and relationships today.   Shawn dives into how podcasting and content creation didn’t just support his restaurant—it transformed it. By focusing on authentic storytelling, building in public, and serving the “audience of one,” he turned a local BBQ restaurant into a scalable media company working with best-in-class restaurant technology brands. He explains why vanity metrics don’t matter, why perfection kills progress, and why the real advantage comes from starting before you feel ready. This conversation goes far beyond the restaurant industry. Whether you’re a wealth manager, business owner, or entrepreneur in any field, Shawn shares why every business is now a media and hospitality business, how smartphones have leveled the playing field, and why the future belongs to those willing to be the show—not the commercial. If you’re looking for practical insight, real-world leadership lessons, and a clear blueprint for using content to grow trust and revenue, this episode delivers.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

Grant Wistrom’s journey from a sports-driven household in Central Florida to three national championships at Nebraska and a Super Bowl with the St. Louis Rams is a story of discipline, resilience, and relentless work ethic. In this episode, Grant sits down with Brett Gilliland to share the lessons that shaped his career, from growing up under the guidance of parents who never missed a practice to navigating the pressures of elite competition at every level.   Beyond the trophies and accolades, Grant emphasizes the mental game—how he managed pressure, self-imposed expectations, and the challenges of performing under scrutiny. He discusses the importance of relationships, accountability, and self-policing teams, offering insights that translate seamlessly from sports to business and personal growth. Listeners will learn why focus, effort, and humility define true champions. Today, Grant channels his leadership into his business ventures and personal life. He shares strategies for building high-performing teams, staying present in the moment, and investing in coaching to foster growth. From lessons on perseverance to maintaining health, mindset, and purpose after sports, this episode delivers actionable advice for athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving for success on and off the field.   Watch the Full Episode Here!

In this episode of the Circuit of Success Podcast, host Brett Gilliland sits down with ESPN college basketball analyst Jay Bilas for a powerful conversation on preparation, leadership, and credibility. Known for his work on ESPN’s College GameDay, Saturday Primetime, SportsCenter, and ESPN.com, Jay shares how his journey through elite college basketball, coaching, law, and broadcasting shaped his disciplined approach to success.   Jay explains the habits most people never see, including relentless preparation, staying curious, and applying the “next play mentality” taught by Coach Mike Krzyzewski. He breaks down how thoughtful analysis, intellectual honesty, and respectful disagreement have helped him become one of the most trusted voices in college basketball and sports media. The conversation also explores the evolving landscape of college basketball, including NIL, the transfer portal, player compensation, and leadership in a high-noise world. This episode delivers timeless lessons for athletes, coaches, executives, and anyone looking to build credibility, stay relevant, and lead with integrity over the long term.   Watch the Full Episode Here!