The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast

In Part 2 of this candid global conversation, Karl Tabbakh returns to The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast to pull back the curtain on the economic uncertainty that’s gripping both Canada and the U.S.—and what business leaders need to do about it.Dwayne and Karl dissect the real cost of tariffs, the psychological divide between the “haves” and “have nots,” and what a future recession could mean for Canadian competitiveness. They challenge leaders to rethink productivity, wealth distribution, and their own growth mindset in a time of instability.From political coalitions to personal responsibility, Karl doesn’t hold back. If you’re in business today, this episode is your compass in the chaos.Timestamps[00:01:00] – The danger of coalitions and the question of democratic representation[00:04:30] – Program creation vs. program funding: Canada’s economic blind spot[00:08:30] – Do we have the GDP to fund the lifestyle we promise?[00:10:00] – Why Canada’s mindset around growth is dangerously passive[00:13:30] – Who really pays the tariffs—and why they’re hidden taxes[00:17:30] – Are tariffs a strategy or political theatre? Dissecting Trump’s leverage[00:24:00] – The “Somewheres” vs. “Nowheres”: Stephen Harper’s cultural divide explained[00:27:00] – The information echo chamber: Why we don’t see disruption coming[00:29:00] – Education, taxation, and why we must fix the divide[00:36:00] – Capitalism’s existential threat: What happens when the system loses balance[00:43:30] – CEO pay, productivity, and compensation in a modern economy[00:48:00] – Catching a falling knife: Should you invest in uncertain times?[00:52:00] – When clarity returns, capital will too: Preparing for the rebound[00:57:00] – The world is better than you think—but you have to choose that lens[00:59:00] – Final message: Educate yourself. Lead with purpose. Elevate others.About Karl TabbakhKarl Tabbakh is a lawyer, a business leader and a strategic advisor with over 20 years of international business experience. Karl’s expertise is sought after to advise corporations, directors and business executives on a range of strategic issues and transactions both domestically and globally. He is a partner at McCarthy Tétrault LLP with a focus on M&A and private equity and serves on the firm’s Senior Leadership Team as National Leader, Markets and International Business. He was appointed by the Government of Canada as Chairman of Invest in Canada, Canada’s agency responsible for promoting, attracting and facilitating global foreign direct investments into Canada. He previously served as Chair of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and was on the Board of directors of the Canada Arab Business Council. Karl is a regular speaker on matters of governance, global investment and mergers and acquisitions. In addition to his career in Canada, Karl spent eight years in the Middle East and four years in London, UK, where he developed a solid international network and gained an understanding of international business and investments. An active community leader, Karl supports and leverages his network to benefit many non-profit and local community service organizations, including as member of the Centraide/United Way campaign. Born in Syria, Karl immigrated with his parents to Canada at age 10. He holds an LLB from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a BCL from the Université de Montréal and a B.Comm from Université Laval in Québec City. Karl is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.Notable Quotes“Imposing a tariff isn’t tax revenue. It’s a tax on your people. And I don’t think Canadians can bear more taxation.” — Karl Tabbakh“Business leaders now need a new set of skills they didn’t think they’d need. Understanding geopolitics is no longer optional.” — Karl Tabbakh“We’re not in the good old days—but we are in the best time in history. The challenge is seeing it through the noise.” — Karl Tabbakh“Growth lives in uncertainty. As business leaders, we need to stop looking for safety and start preparing for opportunity.” — Dwayne Kerrigan“You can’t catch a falling knife. But you can be ready for when it hits the floor.” — Karl TabbakhKey Takeaways & Resources1. Tariffs Are Hidden Taxes on the PeopleDon’t be fooled—tariffs may sound like strategy, but they land hardest on end users. Inflationary effects and economic drag are real.2. Program Spending Without Productivity Is a Dangerous IllusionCanada must generate more wealth before it promises more social services. Creating programs is easy. Funding them is the hard part.3. The Somewhere vs. Nowhere Divide Is WideningKarl shares Stephen Harper’s “Two Canadas” concept. Global elites share more in common with each other than with their neighbors. That gap threatens unity and trust.4. Business Leaders Must Think Politically—NowToday’s leaders need to track geopolitics, elections, and economic policy the way they track revenue and operations. Your business is no longer immune.5. Recession Risks Are Real—But So Is OpportunityCapital is sitting on the sidelines. Prepare now with strong balance sheets, smart partnerships, and scenario planning. Be ready to move when clarity returns.6. We’re Living in the Best Time in History—Despite the HeadlinesPerspective is everything. Health, connectivity, longevity, and access to knowledge have never been better. But fear sells more than facts.Connect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In one of the most urgent and eye-opening conversation, Dwayne sits down with Karl Tabbakh—top Canadian business strategist, international dealmaker, and former chair of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce—to unpack the global forces redefining the rules of business, politics, and leadership.Together, they explore what rising geopolitical tension, fractured trade alliances, and shifting world orders mean for entrepreneurs, CEOs, and decision-makers across North America. With experience advising on multi-billion-dollar cross-border transactions and leading strategic investments in Canada and the Middle East, Karl offers a rare lens into how to stay sharp—and sane—in chaotic times.This is part one of a two-part conversation filled with powerful insights on resilience, globalism, and the responsibilities of leadership in the modern era.Timestamps[00:02:45] – Why Karl was the first person Dwayne thought of for this global conversation[00:05:20] – Karl’s career snapshot: from billion-dollar deals to chairing Invest in Canada[00:09:45] – A five-year vision framework for career growth and avoiding professional stagnation[00:13:00] – Why global exposure isn't just travel—it’s transformational for decision-making[00:17:30] – The danger of only seeing the world through a North American lens[00:21:00] – Are we ignoring the signs of World War III? The breakdown of the post-WWII order[00:25:30] – What the markets are really saying about uncertainty and leadership[00:33:45] – Are nations acting out of fear, or a thirst for certainty?[00:40:00] – Why Canada must rethink its overreliance on one trade partner[00:52:00] – The hard truth about energy, natural gas, and global climate equity[01:03:00] – The upcoming Canadian election: What voters need to be asking[01:11:00] – Vision, will, and resources: Three pillars for Canada’s next leader[01:15:00] – Final thoughts: Canada’s opportunity to punch above its weight againAbout KarlKarl Tabbakh is a lawyer, a business leader and a strategic advisor with over 20 years of international business experience. Karl’s expertise is sought after to advise corporations, directors and business executives on a range of strategic issues and transactions both domestically and globally. He is a partner at McCarthy Tétrault LLP with a focus on M&A and private equity and serves on the firm’s Senior Leadership Team as National Leader, Markets and International Business. He was appointed by the Government of Canada as Chairman of Invest in Canada, Canada’s agency responsible for promoting, attracting and facilitating global foreign direct investments into Canada. He previously served as Chair of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and was on the Board of directors of the Canada Arab Business Council. Karl is a regular speaker on matters of governance, global investment and mergers and acquisitions. In addition to his career in Canada, Karl spent eight years in the Middle East and four years in London, UK, where he developed a solid international network and gained an understanding of international business and investments. An active community leader, Karl supports and leverages his network to benefit many non-profit and local community service organizations, including as member of the Centraide/United Way campaign. Born in Syria, Karl immigrated with his parents to Canada at age 10. He holds an LLB from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, a BCL from the Université de Montréal and a B.Comm from Université Laval in Québec City. Karl is fluent in French, English, and Arabic.Notable Quotes“If World War III starts, historians will look at this moment and say: all the signs were there.” – Karl Tabbakh“Business is a series of relationships. The same principles that heal marriages can heal nations.” – Dwayne Kerrigan“We’re not saying there will be war. We’re saying the rules are changing—and business can’t afford to ignore that.” – Karl Tabbakh“The future belongs to those who can see the world through more than one lens.” – Karl TabbakhKey Takeaways & Resources1. Five-Year Framework for Career ClarityDiscussions on view your professional growth in 3–5 year increments. If you're not growing or being challenged, it may be time to pivot.2. Global Perspective is a Strategic AdvantageLiving, not just traveling, in different cultures gives professionals the multi-angle lens needed for today’s complex challenges.3. A Shifting World Order Demands AdaptationPost-WWII rules of sovereignty and treaty-based certainty are being challenged. Businesses relying on geopolitical stability must rethink their risk.4. Energy Policy Must Balance Morality and RealismKarl challenges ideological energy policy, urging a globalist view that supports cleaner transitions for developing nations.6. Voters Must Demand Vision, Not Just OppositionAs Canada approaches an election, the critical question isn’t who can stand up to Trump—but who can chart a sustainable, strategic path forward.Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this bonus Q and A, Jeni Hott sits down with longtime friends to unpack the evolution of online entrepreneurship—from the early days of AOL chat rooms to today's AI-powered marketing tools. Jeni breaks down the four major business models she’s worked in, why she avoids ads (still!), and how she builds evergreen, automated systems that run themselves for months at a time.She shares how she chooses which ideas to pursue, why traffic is everything, and how she’s used the same core strategies for over two decades across wildly different businesses—from art to education to (soon) a day-trading firm. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by options or unsure how to structure your online presence, this episode is your roadmap to clarity and freedom.Learn more https://brilliantetc.com/ Timestamps:00:00 – Jeni crashes the podcast with surprise insights!01:00 – Kim Burke asks: How has Jeni’s revenue model evolved?02:30 – The 4 Online Business Models and why Jeni avoids some of them04:00 – 100M+ organic blog visits and never using paid ads05:30 – “Set it and rest” marketing: Why Jeni loves YouTube, blogging & Pinterest07:00 – Don’t do what they say you “have” to do—unless it’s aligned08:30 – How Jeni decides what businesses or models to pursue10:00 – From selling seeds on AOL to building automated funnels12:00 – Capture → Engage → Convert: Timeless strategy in any era14:00 – The surprising risk Jeni always checks before starting something new16:00 – Revenue always comes from products, not just traffic18:00 – Why learning how to capture attention is the skill that multiplies everything19:30 – Dwayne’s unexpected pivot to podcasting and building online reach21:00 – Why you don’t need to know what you’re doing to start23:00 – Jeni’s crash-course in learning how to coach 80 people at once25:00 – Real leverage: getting paid to practice and having skin in the game26:30 – The power of mindset, fast feedback loops, and action over perfection28:00 – Google vs. Instagram vs. Facebook: Which traffic platforms do what?29:30 – Blogging strategy: Pillar posts vs. supporting content31:00 – Why over-optimizing for SEO can hurt performance33:00 – Turn your profiles into funnels and lead people step-by-step35:00 – Subtle marketing psychology: name placement, repetition, familiarity36:30 – The rising role of instinct-driven selling (especially among women entrepreneurs)38:00 – Men vs. women in marketing: how coaching and communication differ39:00 – Wrap-up and reflections on the podcast’s ripple effectNotable Quotes:"You never have to do anything you don’t want to do to build a successful business.""Everything I do is based on one question: Can I set this up and not touch it for 3–4 months?""It’s never the product—it’s how you get people in front of the product.""You don’t need to know everything to start. You’ll learn faster after you begin.""Confused people don’t buy. Lead them step by step with clear direction."Mindset & Decision Filters:Ask yourself:Do I actually want to do this?Will it serve people?Can I automate and step away from it?Will it increase stress or peace in my life?Connect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of this powerful series, Jeni Hott and host Dwayne Kerrigan dive deep into the mindset and mechanics behind magnetic marketing. Jeni unpacks why traditional strategies fail, how to simplify your sales funnel, and how to shift from desperation to authority in your messaging. She breaks down the types of social media posts that actually convert, explains her timeline-based client targeting strategy, and shares how to create a "content vault" that makes your marketing repeatable and scalable.Jeni also addresses the rise of AI and how business owners can use ChatGPT and custom GPTs to build systems, streamline operations, and reclaim their time—without losing their personal touch.Timestamps:00:00 – Marketing from angst vs. marketing from leadership02:30 – Understanding "objection posts" and sales page content05:00 – FAB (Features, Advantages, Benefits) and storytelling in marketing07:30 – Jeni’s “client timeline” strategy vs. the traditional avatar model10:00 – The power of targeting tipping points for high-converting offers12:00 – Why you don’t need to convince when you're speaking with conviction13:30 – Building a content vault to reflect customer buying moments15:00 – Creating a seasonal content calendar that predicts conversions16:30 – Should a VA or OBM manage your social content? Yes—if trained well18:30 – The danger of hiring without understanding the basics20:00 – The Time Rich program and its holistic business foundations23:30 – Embracing social media instead of avoiding it26:00 – Staying in your lane and not chasing online trends29:00 – Avoiding distractions: Focus on purpose, not reaction31:00 – AI tools: ChatGPT, Poe, custom GPTs & what's coming next35:00 – Household bots & humanoid robotics on the near horizon38:00 – How to create a custom GPT tailored to your business42:00 – AI learning and the “unconscious competence” advantage45:00 – Singularity and AI as human evolution, not a threat47:00 – Algorithm hacks vs. adding true value to your audience50:00 – Using engagement posts to boost algorithm reach53:00 – How to analyze comments and reels with ChatGPT55:30 – Scraping content and training AI on what’s working58:00 – 6 key post types and why simplicity wins in content strategy01:01:00 – Final thoughts: embrace, optimize, empower your teamNotable Quotes:"You don’t need to convince when you come from conviction. That’s when magic happens.""Most people aren’t your ideal client—they’re just not far enough along the timeline yet.""Complexity is the enemy of execution. Simplify, then scale.""AI is not going away. You don’t need to master it overnight, but you do need to start.""Your people can’t help you scale unless you empower them with knowledge and tools."Valuable Resources & Takeaways:Core Post Types Jeni Recommends:Value PostsObjection PostsStory PostsEngagement PostsProblem Awareness PostsAI Tools Mentioned:ChatGPT – Jeni’s favorite tool for custom GPT creation and business system building Poe – Alternate AI tool used by many entrepreneursCustom GPTs – Can be trained to match your brand voice, content style, and business needsKate Nash's Free Training – Great for building your own GPTsVoice-to-Text & Prompting – Use spoken inputs to streamline and accelerate AI useBusiness Programs:Time Rich – Jeni’s holistic program for building scalable, passive income businessesSmart Success Facebook Group – For live Q&A, free trainings, and community supportBig Concepts to Implement:Build a vault of high-performing posts based on real engagementSpeak to tipping points, not just demographicsScrape comments and analyze content with ChatGPTBuild a content calendar tied to seasonal conversionsHire for competence, but lead with understandingStay focused on serving, not keeping up with trendsUse AI to train assistants, create content, and plan strategyConnect with Dwayne KerriganFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this deeply inspiring and wide-ranging episode, Dwayne sits down with digital pioneer and serial entrepreneur Jeni Hott. What starts as a casual catch-up unfolds into a powerful conversation about life transitions, emotional intelligence, mindset mastery, and the future of business. Jeni shares her spontaneous decision to uproot her life, her son’s incredible generosity, and the legacy we leave behind—not just in business, but in how we live. They also dive into leadership identity shifts, how to handle negativity in business, and why embracing AI is not optional but essential.Whether you're a new entrepreneur or a seasoned leader navigating uncertainty, this episode is packed with wisdom, heart, and actionable insight.Timestamps:00:00 – Opening remarks and the chaos of moving02:00 – Jeni’s health scare and the wake-up call from the universe04:00 – Giving everything away: a touching story of legacy and generosity06:30 – Joy in everyday moments and the theme of intentional kindness09:00 – Why business is always about relationships10:30 – Introducing Jeni: Her trailblazing blogging success and career highlights12:00 – From nursing to naturopathic doctorate to entrepreneurship13:30 – The underestimated power of mindset in business15:00 – Scarcity vs abundance: where business owners get stuck17:00 – The identity shift from entrepreneur to leader21:30 – What defines a true leader and how to grow into it24:00 – Releasing limiting beliefs: The Sedona Method & Hale Dwoskin28:00 – Observing vs suppressing emotion in entrepreneurship30:00 – Waking Up app by Sam Harris & third-party mindfulness tools32:00 – Business mindset vs strategy: finding balance33:30 – Entering the AI Era: Why business owners must adapt36:00 – Breaking down AI in simple terms (ChatGPT, GPTs, LLMs)42:00 – Creating your own company-specific GPT (custom AI tools)48:00 – Instructional designers & the future of team training53:00 – How to simplify your operations with AI + training systems56:00 – Hiring a VA and the stages of team evolution1:01:00 – Keeping it lean: How Jeni ran a 7-figure business with minimal staffNotable Quotes:“Legacy is when you pass on that mission, that purpose, and that generosity. That’s what life is really about.”“If it doesn’t feel good, it’s probably not true. Most of your limiting beliefs are just your brain trying to keep you comfortable.”“Every entrepreneur hits that point where they must decide: will I be the bottleneck or the breakthrough?”“AI isn’t replacing you—it’s extending your potential.”“You don’t need a massive team to be massively successful. You need systems that work.”Valuable Resources & Takeaways: Mindset Tools:The Sedona Method (Hale Dwoskin)Waking Up app (Sam Harris)"Do the Work" App (Marie Hayes)AI & Business Tools:ChatGPT & Custom GPTsInstructional Design Support: Kate NashOBM & VA Hiring: MaryRose Speed’s VA AcademyOnline Business Structure: Time Rich Program by Jeni HottConnect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast with Emily Williams, we continue the gripping story of her fall and her inspiring rise. After leaving a toxic relationship, Emily found herself homeless. Through the depths of addiction, she reached a turning point—choosing sobriety and a fresh start. This episode delves into the hard truths of addiction, the power of structured recovery, and the mental strength required to rebuild a shattered life. Just when she thought she had overcome the hardest challenges, a devastating accident left her with a broken neck—the same injury that paralyzed Christopher Reeve. Against all odds, Emily survived and, through sheer determination, found her way back to the sport she loves.Her story is one of resilience, personal accountability, and the unwavering belief that even from the lowest points, we can rise again.Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Introduction and recap of Part 1[00:02:00] – Homelessness and living in psychosis after leaving her relationship[00:04:00] – Arrested while in a delusional state and the shocking credit card charges[00:06:00] – Voices in her head: The terrifying psychosis fueled by addiction[00:08:00] – The transition from a mental hospital to rehab[00:10:00] – Sober living: The structure that saved her life[00:13:00] – Learning responsibility, humility, and discipline in sobriety[00:17:00] – Managing expectations, avoiding victim mentality, and taking ownership[00:20:00] – The importance of purpose and self-belief in recovery[00:23:00] – The accident: A near-fatal fall that broke her neck[00:27:00] – Learning to navigate sobriety while managing severe pain[00:30:00] – Facing judgment and proving herself again in the equestrian world[00:35:00] – Teaching, coaching, and rediscovering her passion for horses[00:40:00] – Handling criticism and learning not to care about what others think[00:45:00] – Finding gratitude, purpose, and a new outlook on life[00:47:00] – Where to find Emily and how to reach out for helpNotable Quotes:"I had hit rock bottom so many times, I didn’t even realize how far I had fallen." – Emily Williams"I wasn’t just struggling with addiction—I was battling my own mind." – Emily Williams"You can’t fix a problem until you stop running from it." – Emily Williams"No one chose to put drugs in me but me. No one kept me in a bad relationship but me. I had to take responsibility for my own choices." – Emily Williams"I thought my life was over, but then I realized I had been given another chance to write a new story." – Emily WilliamsMental Health & Addiction Support:SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP or www.samhsa.govNational Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.orgAlcoholics Anonymous (AA) & Narcotics Anonymous (NA): www.aa.org | www.na.orgFollow & Connect with Emily Williams: Instagram: @therealemilywilliamsConnect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this deeply moving episode, Dwayne sits down with Emily Williams to explore her remarkable story. Once a rising star in the equestrian world, Emily's life took a devastating turn following the loss of her mother. Battling grief, addiction, and an abusive relationship, she faced homelessness and despair before making a courageous decision to reclaim her life. This candid conversation delves into the emotional depths of her struggles, the impact of shame and guilt, and the strength it takes to rebuild. Listeners will gain insight into addiction, loss, resilience, and the importance of self-awareness in overcoming personal battles. Emily's story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to rise, fall, and rise again.Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Introduction to the episode and guest, Emily Williams[00:01:30] –Dwayne shares how he discovered Emily’s story[00:03:00] – The connection between business, relationships, and personal struggles[00:06:00] – Emily’s early success: A prodigy in the equestrian world[00:08:00] – The loss of her mother and the emotional impact[00:10:00] – The beginning of addiction: Partying, Adderall, and grief-driven rebellion[00:14:00] – The transition from discipline to self-destruction[00:17:00] – Losing responsibility and how it accelerates addiction[00:22:00] – Dropping out of school and falling into the party lifestyle[00:25:00] – Shame, guilt, and feeling undeserving of redemption[00:32:00] – A toxic relationship: Drug use, manipulation, and emotional control[00:39:00] – The descent into meth use and how it rewires the brain[00:42:00] – The breaking point: Walking away from addiction and an abusive relationship[00:47:00] – Narcissism, control, and the power of saying ‘no’[00:48:30] – Teaser for next week’s continuation of Emily’s journeyNotable Quotes:"Sometimes the most challenging situations are what we learn the most from." – Emily Williams"I felt so small… I had to lie to myself to be okay with who I was, but I wasn’t okay." – Emily WilliamsResources & Mentions:Books: The Coddling of the American Mind – Jonathan Haidt & Greg LukianoffMental Health & Addiction Support:National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): www.drugabuse.govSAMHSA’s National Helpline: www.samhsa.gov or call 1-800-662-HELPNarcotics Anonymous (NA): www.na.orgConnect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this powerful continuation of our conversation with Jessica Janzen, author of Bring the Joy, we dive deeper into the transformational power of perspective, purpose, and resilience. Jessica shares deeply personal stories about finding gratitude in everyday struggles, embracing life's "nudges," and how shifting our mindset can unlock joy—even in our darkest moments. We discuss how to reframe challenges, the importance of energy management, and the impact of small, intentional actions. Jessica also offers insight into personal growth, mental health, and the balance between ambition and presence. If you're seeking to cultivate more joy in your life or help others do the same, this episode is a must-listen!Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Introduction & Recap of Part 1[00:01:00] – Overcoming resistance to joy and reframing daily struggles[00:02:30] – The dishwasher story: Perspective shift from burden to blessing[00:05:00] – The power of certainty and how small moments shape our purpose[00:08:00] – Following nudges[00:12:00] – Faith, purpose, and the role of free will in shaping our experiences[00:14:00] – Society’s obsession with immediacy vs. the power of consistency[00:16:00] – Transforming grief into purpose: Love for Lewiston Foundation[00:19:00] – The energy we bring: The impact of our presence on those around us[00:22:00] – Supporting others through hardship: The power of simply being there[00:24:00] – Strategies for recharging your battery: Emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical health[00:29:00] – Small disciplines that build a foundation for joy[00:32:00] – The danger of “should-ing” yourself and learning to say no[00:36:00] – Thought patterns, rewiring the brain, and the science of manifestation[00:42:00] – Finding joy in the present moment rather than chasing the next milestone[00:47:00] – The impact of expectations and judgment on our ability to experience joy[00:52:00] – How to identify and shift your primary question for a more joyful life[00:56:00] – What’s it like to be on the other side of me? A powerful self-awareness question from Ryan Leak[01:01:00] – Final reflections and Jessica’s resources for finding joy[01:02:30] – How to connect with Jessica and support her workNotable Quotes:🔹 "You might not be able to change your circumstances, but you can change the outcome and what it looks like." – Jessica Janzen🔹 "Joy doesn’t just arrive. It’s the combination of small choices and habits stacked over time." – Jessica Janzen🔹 "We’ve over-romanticized purpose. What if your purpose is just to be kind because that’s what someone else needs?" – Jessica Janzen🔹 "If you have the ability to move your body, do it. Someone in a hospital would give anything to walk to the end of the block." – Jessica Janzen🔹 "What you resist most in others is what you have yet to accept in yourself." – Dwayne Kerrigan🔹 "If this is all I get, I want to live a chapter worth rereading." – Jessica Janzen🔹 "What’s it like to be on the other side of me?" – Ryan Leak (shared by Jessica)Resources Mentioned:📚 Bring the Joy – Jessica Janzen (Available on Amazon & Goodreads)📚 Atlas of the Heart – Brené Brown📚 Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation – Dr. James Doty📚 Level Up – Ryan Leak🌍 Jessica’s Website📲 Instagram: @thejessicajanzen🎗️ Love for Lewiston FoundationCall to Action:If you found this episode valuable, please share it with a friend or colleague who could use some joy in their life. Support Jessica’s mission by purchasing Bring the Joy or contributing to the Love for Lewiston Foundation. And don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review—every share creates a ripple effect of knowledge and inspiration!Connect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In this deeply moving and insightful episode of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast, host Dwayne Kerrigan sits down with Jessica Janzen, a speaker, author, philanthropist, and coach who has dedicated her life to bringing the joy. Jessica shares her extraordinary journey of resilience—from experiencing bullying and battling mental health struggles to facing the heartbreaking loss of her son, Lewiston, to spinal muscular atrophy.Despite unimaginable pain, Jessica embraced a mindset shift that led her to create the Love for Lewiston Foundation, raise over $3 million for research and support, and become a beacon of joy for others. Through this candid conversation, she and Dwayne explore the power of perspective, the importance of mental and physical health, and how choosing joy—even in the darkest times—can transform lives.Join us as Jessica offers practical steps on how to build a life filled with meaning, connection, and purpose, whether in business or in personal life. Don’t press pause on this one—this episode is packed with invaluable wisdom that can truly change the way you approach challenges.Timestamps & Key Moments:[00:00:00] – Jessica’s philosophy: “Instead of a pity party, we had a dance party.”.[00:05:00] – Jessica’s journey: From struggling in school to building an impact-driven life.[00:09:00] – The moment everything changed: Lewiston’s diagnosis and Jessica’s decision to “bring the joy.”[00:14:00] – Lessons in perspective: The profound realization that movement and health are gifts.[00:18:00] – Rewriting your story: How Jessica reinvented herself after years of feeling like she didn’t belong.[00:25:00] – The power of energy: How showing up authentically transforms connections and opportunities.[00:30:00] – The role of fitness in mental and emotional well-being.[00:37:00] – Serving others: How helping someone else can shift your entire mindset.[00:42:00] – The battle with negative thoughts: How our brains search for evidence and how to train them differently.[00:50:00] – One powerful question to change your mindset before bed: "What worked today?"[00:54:00] – Finding purpose in the smallest things—why joy is often found in the ordinary.[01:00:00] – Final thoughts: The importance of perspective and gratitude in business and life.Notable Quotes:“It takes just as much time to see the good as it does to see the bad.” – Jessica Janzen“If you feel like you don’t belong, start showing up as the person you want to be around.” – Jessica JanzenResources Mentioned in This Episode:📖 Jessica Janzen’s Book – Bring the Joy https://a.co/d/d9P4u75📚 Book RecommendationChange Your Brain Every Day by Dr. Daniel Amen https://a.co/d/3XWVP1NLeveling Up by Ryan Leak https://a.co/d/3XWVP1N🏥 Jessica’s Nonprofit – Love for Lewiston Foundation (Supporting SMA research and families) https://www.loveforlewiston.com/If you found value in this episode, please share it with someone who could benefit from Jessica’s incredible story. Subscribe to The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast for Part 2 of this conversation, where we’ll dive even deeper into the ways joy can fuel success in business and life.🎧 Listen next week for Part 2!Connect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Alan Stein Jr., we take a deep dive into elite performance principles that apply to business, sports, and life. Alan shares the three key pillars of success—mastering fundamentals, balancing confidence with humility, and focusing on the process over outcome. He also introduces the "Next Play Mentality", a game-changing mindset that helps high performers stay locked in, bounce back from setbacks, and consistently improve.If you're struggling with execution, overcomplicating success, or letting past failures hold you back, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you move forward and level up.Timestamps & Key Topics:[00:00:00] Setting Big Goals Without Fear of FailureAlan shares why he sets ambitious goals and is okay with missing themHow to reframe failure as a learning opportunity [00:02:00] The 3 Pillars of High Performance1️Mastering the Fundamentals – Why the best never get bored with the basics2️Confidence + Humility – Earn confidence through preparation, but stay coachable3️Process Over Outcome – Stop obsessing over goals; focus on small daily actions[00:06:00] Complexity Undermines ExecutionWhy making things too complicated leads to inactionHow simplifying habits (like a 15-minute walk) can lead to massive transformation[00:12:00] Why People Struggle to Execute Simple ActionsThe comparison trap—why people set unrealistic goalsHow society sells complexity and why the basics aren’t monetizable [00:19:00] Want to Be Great? Do the Verb!The difference between wanting success and doing the work"If you want to be an author, you have to write." [00:32:00] The "Next Play Mentality"How elite athletes forget mistakes instantly and focus on executionWhy carrying negativity from past failures hurts future performanceHow business leaders and entrepreneurs can apply this to sales, leadership, and daily decisions [00:37:00] Next Play on a Macro Level: Life TransitionsApplying the next play mindset to career shifts, relationships, and setbacksMoving forward after adversity rather than dwelling on what’s lost[00:41:00] Final Thoughts & How to Connect with AlanWhy listening is the most underrated skill in business & relationshipsAlan shares how to reach out to him directlyKey Takeaways:Simplicity wins. Complexity kills execution—the best stick to the basics.Earn your confidence. Keep your humility. Preparation and self-discipline create real belief in yourself.Focus on the process. Small daily actions lead to long-term success.Next play. Stop dwelling on failures—focus on the next action that moves you forward.Want to be great? Do the work. Success isn’t about wanting it, it’s about doing it consistently.Connect with Dwayne KerriganLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/Website: www.dwaynekerrigan.comDisclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.