A Stern Talk

Mansur Ashkar on the Epstein Files: Who Is Connected? | Mansur Ashkar | A Stern Talk

Wed, 7 Oct 2026 21:22:00 +0000

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What happens when a debate about Israel turns into a much bigger conversation about Islam, America, Gaza, faith, and the future of the West?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Mansur Ashkar for a wide-ranging and heated conversation about Israel, Gaza, Islam in America, Sharia law, Christianity, Jesus, Muhammad, Iran, and the future of Western civilization.

The conversation begins with the question of whether America should stop funding Israel before moving into a much deeper debate over Islam's role in American society. Mansur and the other participants debate whether Islam should be limited in America, where the line between religious freedom and political ideology should be drawn, and whether Sharia law conflicts with the U.S. Constitution.

The discussion then moves directly into Gaza and Israel. Gaza becomes part of a broader argument about the end times, Hamas, Israel, civilian suffering, and the role religion plays in how people understand the conflict. The speakers debate why Gaza has become such a central issue and how different religious interpretations shape people's understanding of Israel and the Middle East.

Mansur also explains his views on Jesus and Islamic eschatology, including the Islamic belief that Jesus did not die on the cross and will return. The conversation gets heated as the participants challenge each other's understanding of Christianity, Islam, the Bible, the Quran, Muhammad, and the meaning of the Messiah.

YOUTUBE CHAPTERS 00:00 — The Islam and Christianity Debate Begins 08:30 — What Does Islam Actually Teach? 18:40 — God, Worship and Monotheism 28:30 — The Bible and the Quran 39:06 — Was Jesus a Muslim? 49:30 — How Christians and Muslims Read Scripture 58:29 — The Crucifixion Question 1:08:30 — Paul, Muhammad and Religious Authority 1:18:00 — The Trinity and the Nature of God
1:23:40 — Mansur Ashkar's Mission and Message

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN ✝️ Why Mansur argues that Jesus should be understood as a Muslim ☪️ How Islam defines submission to one God 📖 Why Muslims and Christians interpret the Bible differently 📜 How the Quran refers to earlier revelations 🧠 Why the definition of monotheism is central to the debate 🔥 Why the question of Jesus' identity creates such a major theological divide ⛪ How Christianity and Islam approach Jesus differently 📚 Why scripture and interpretation matter so much in religious debates 🗣️ Why Mansur believes direct conversations with younger generations are important 🌎 Why Mansur sees defending freedom and Western civilization as part of his mission

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ABOUT MANSUR ASHKAR Mansur Ashkar is a commentator and content creator focused on religion, culture, freedom, democracy, and Western civilization. Known online as Old Man Gamer, Mansur uses social media, public speaking, church events, and college appearances to engage both younger and older generations on the issues he believes matter most to the future of Western society.

His work is driven by a personal passion for defending freedom, democracy, and Western civilization while encouraging people to have open conversations about faith, culture, and the values that shape society.

📣 Guest: Mansur Ashkar: https://www.instagram.com/mansor_ashkar https://x.com/MansurAshkar/status/1726635865722822957

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ASTernTalk #WilliamStern #MansurAshkar #Christianity #Islam #Jesus #Bible #Quran #ChristianMuslimDebate #Religion #Faith #Monotheism

FBI Negotiator Reveals How People Are Really Manipulated... | A Stern Talk | Chris Voss

Tue, 6 Oct 2026 14:06:00 +0000

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What if the key to winning a negotiation isn't talking more but making the other person feel understood?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Chris Voss, former FBI hostage negotiator and founder of The Black Swan Group, to discuss tactical empathy, curiosity, high-stakes negotiations, business, leadership, parenting, entrepreneurship, and the psychology behind human behavior.

Chris shares lessons from his FBI career involving kidnappings, bank robberies, and hostage negotiations, and explains why great negotiation is a performance skill that has to be practiced. He breaks down how your tone of voice can change a conversation, why removing yourself as a threat can completely shift a negotiation, and how to identify who actually holds power at the table.

William and Chris also get into business, marriage, parenting, leadership, discipline, entrepreneurship, AI, and the importance of high standards with high support.

📣 Connect with us: William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern Chris Voss: https://www.instagram.com/thefbinegotiator/ https://www.blackswanltd.com/

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN 🔥 Why curiosity can be more powerful than confrontation 🧠 How tactical empathy changes difficult conversations 💡 Why your tone of voice can change a negotiation ⚠️ How to identify who actually has influence at the table 🤝 Why great negotiators focus on collaboration instead of simply winning 📈 Why negotiation requires constant practice and coaching 🎯 How “forced empathy” makes the other side think through your problem 🚀 Why Chris Voss left the FBI and became an entrepreneur

ABOUT CHRIS VOSS Chris Voss is a former FBI lead kidnapping negotiator, bestselling author of Never Split The Difference, and founder and CEO of The Black Swan Group; a negotiation, training, coaching, and consulting organization that teaches people how to achieve better outcomes in high-stakes conversations.

Recognized globally as a leading authority on negotiation, Chris developed his approach through decades of experience in crisis negotiation. Today, he and The Black Swan Group apply those principles to business, sales, leadership, difficult conversations, and high-stakes communication through The Black Swan Method® and Tactical Empathy®.

Never Split The Difference has introduced millions of readers around the world to Chris's negotiation methodology. Through The Black Swan Group, Chris and his team help people go beyond understanding the concepts in the book and develop negotiation as a practical, repeatable performance skill through training, coaching, practice, and live experiences.

The Black Swan Group offers in-person negotiation training, live and self-paced online negotiation training, coaching, keynote speaking, and advanced negotiation experiences for business owners, leaders, sales professionals, and other professionals who want to become more effective dealmakers.

Learn from Chris Voss and The Black Swan Group: Negotiation training and resources: https://www.blackswanltd.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm=campaign=asterntalk

In-person and live training: https://www.blackswanltd.com/live-events?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=asterntalk

Online negotiation training: https://www.blackswanltd.com/online-negotiation-classes?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=asterntalk

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CHAPTERS 0:00 The Real Evil Behind Extremism 2:49 “Be Curious, Not Furious” 7:27 How Your Voice Changes a Negotiation 9:52 Negotiating Across Cultures 14:18 How Chris Voss Starts a Negotiation 19:32 Inside an FBI Hostage Negotiation 23:02 How to Negotiate With Powerful People 26:42 How Chris Identified the Real Kidnapper 33:27 Can Negotiation Save a Relationship? 36:04 Why Negotiation Is a Skill You Can Lose 39:10 Why Lawyers Understand Negotiation 41:59 The Best Way to Learn Any Skill 46:16 Why Failure Is Part of Success 49:32 Tactical Empathy in Business 52:01 The Human Need More Powerful Than Survival 55:04 Chris Voss Explains “Forced Empathy” 59:36 Parenting, Discipline & Raising Strong Kids 1:02:54 Why Chris Voss Left the FBI 1:07:20 Negotiating Your Career & Getting Ahead 1:11:22 The Values That Shaped Chris Voss 1:15:41 How Chris Raised His Son 1:25:24 Government vs. The Private Sector 1:28:01 Why Gratitude Makes You a Better Negotiator 1:33:23 The Art of Influence Without Manipulation 1:42:28 Why Negotiation Matters Even More in the AI Era

What’s the biggest negotiation lesson you took from Chris Voss? Drop your answer below. 👇

ChrisVoss #WilliamStern #ASternTalk #NeverSplitTheDifference #Negotiation #TacticalEmpathy #BlackSwanGroup

Yasha Tehrani of Rex Watches: Is the Watch Industry a Scam?... | A Stern Talk

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 21:11:29 +0000

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What happens when a luxury industry built on trust gets flooded with super fakes, fake hype, fake scarcity, and real money?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Yasha Tehrani, owner of Rex Watches, to discuss Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, luxury watches, super fakes, the gray market, watch investing, Rolex waitlists, diamonds, gold, social media, and the trust-based world behind high-end timepieces.

Yasha explains why the luxury watch business is not as simple as buying low and selling high. One fake watch, one bad deal, or one dishonest move can destroy a reputation. In a market where hundreds of thousands of dollars can move on trust alone, the seller matters just as much as the watch.

The conversation breaks down the rise of Chinese super fakes, why even authorized dealers can make mistakes, and why buyers need to stop chasing the cheapest price and start buying from people who actually know what they are doing.

William and Yasha also dig into the Rolex waitlist myth, how Rolex controls scarcity, why gray market pricing exists, and why the right watch can feel more like a status signal, investment vehicle, and social currency than a simple accessory.

Then the episode moves into watch culture, 47th Street drama, luxury influencers, old money buyers, crypto bros, lab diamonds, gold, and whether watches are still one of the last luxury markets where trust, reputation, and handshake deals actually matter.

This is a conversation about money, status, trust, scarcity, luxury, and why the watch on your wrist says more than most people want to admit.

Watch until the end for Yasha’s advice on what watch a 25-year-old finance bro should buy, what watch tells other dads you made it, why he would put $50,000 into gold or watches before diamonds, and how fast he can source a platinum Daytona if you know exactly what you want.

YOUTUBE CHAPTERS

0:00 The Superfake Problem
2:07 Buy The Seller
7:00 Stop Waiting For Rolex
11:19 Why Men Want Rolex
17:03 Holy Grail Watches
20:29 The Wrong Watch
27:30 Does Rolex Throttle Supply?
31:14 Best First Watch
35:30 Watches As Investments
41:09 Watch Dealer Reality TV
44:53 Gold, Crypto, And Diamonds
50:08 How To Source Any Watch

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

⌚ Why luxury watches are built on trust, reputation, and verification
🚨 How Chinese super fakes are changing the watch market
💰 Why the cheapest watch is often the most expensive mistake
👑 Why Rolex controls both the new and gray market
⏳ Why the Rolex waitlist is not what most customers think it is
🔥 Which watches Yasha sees as true status symbols
📈 How gold, scarcity, and trends move luxury watch prices
💎 Why lab diamonds changed the natural diamond market
🤝 How seven-figure watch deals still happen on trust
🏆 What watch Yasha recommends for young finance guys and successful dads

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📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:

Yasha Tehrani of Rex Watches LLC: https://www.instagram.com/rexwatchesllc/reels/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/people/Rex-Watches-LLC/61559224547142/

https://www.tiktok.com/@rexwatches?_r=1&_t=ZT-94elhvROwGr

#YashaTehrani #RexWatchesLLC #WilliamStern #ASternTalk #LuxuryWatches #Rolex #PatekPhilippe #AudemarsPiguet

Who Really Speaks for the Jews?... | Daniel Mael | A Stern Talk

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 20:47:10 +0000

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What happens when truth becomes too expensive for media, politics, religion, and even your own community?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Daniel Mael, writer, commentator, podcast host, and founder of The Mael Review, to discuss Judaism, antisemitism, Chabad, media corruption, Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, Ben Shapiro, Israel, online conspiracy funnels, the ADL, Jewish identity, and the fight for truth in modern America.

Daniel shares how his own Jewish identity became stronger after a Birthright trip, why he spoke up on campus about free speech and Jewish issues, and how his background shaped the way he looks at today’s political and religious battles. The conversation starts with Judaism, education, respect, discipline, and why boundaries still matter in a world that keeps trying to erase them.

Then the episode moves into the online machine. Daniel breaks down how podcast culture, social media incentives, bots, foreign influence, and conspiracy content can create the illusion of mass momentum. William and Daniel discuss Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, Megyn Kelly, Sean Ryan, Ben Shapiro, and why some trusted voices on the right have started laundering anti-Israel and anti-Jewish narratives under the cover of “just asking questions.”

The conversation also digs into Reform Judaism, Chabad, Christian theology being folded into Jewish spaces, the ADL, American Jewish weakness, assimilation, Shabbat, Jewish philanthropy, and why Daniel believes American Jews need to reconnect with authentic Judaism instead of relying on political organizations to save them.

This is a conversation about truth. In media. In politics. In Judaism. In philanthropy. And in the way communities decide who deserves trust.

Watch until the end for Daniel’s advice on where Jewish donors should actually put their money, why local community support matters, and why every Jewish institution needs to be held to a higher standard of honesty.

CHAPTERS

0:00 Daniel Mael Joins
2:19 Judaism And Chabad
9:31 The Rebbe Question
16:30 Anti-Zionism And The Right
24:19 Media Standards Fell Apart
32:29 Israel, Iran, And Influence
37:38 Tucker, Candace, And Ben
47:13 Judaism Under Pressure
1:03:09 Being Jewish In America
1:05:25 The ADL Problem
1:12:03 Where Should Jews Donate?

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

🔥 Why Daniel Mael believes truth matters even when it is uncomfortable
✡️ How Chabad shaped his view of Judaism, discipline, and identity
🧢 Why dress codes, honorifics, and boundaries still matter
📱 How bots and online influence campaigns distort public opinion
🎙️ Why podcast incentives reward conspiracy content
🇮🇱 How anti-Zionism can become a thin veil for antisemitism
🧠 Why Daniel believes Ben Shapiro is different from Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens
🏛️ Why the ADL has lost trust with many Jews
🕍 Why authentic Judaism matters more than political Jewish branding
💰 How Jewish donors should think about charity, legacy, and accountability

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📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:
Daniel Mael: https://www.instagram.com/themaelman/?hl=en
The Mael Review: https://danielmael.substack.com/p/magen-david-adom-tells-the-truth
The Daniel Mael Show: https://www.youtube.com/@DanielMaelTV

#DanielMael #WilliamStern #AsternTalk #TheMaelReview #DanielMaelShow #Chabad #Judaism #JewishIdentity #Antisemitism #AntiZionism #TuckerCarlson #CandaceOwens #BenShapiro #MegynKelly

Marissa Streit: You Deserve Nothing But Responsibility... | A Stern Talk

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 19:52:01 +0000

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What happens when a generation grows up inside social media, loses faith in capitalism, and starts confusing freedom with entitlement?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Marissa Streit, CEO of PragerU, to discuss technology, morality, social media, capitalism, socialism, PBS, ESG, DEI, education, parenting, and the future of the American dream.

Marissa explains why technology is never neutral. Social media, AI, YouTube, X, and Instagram can be used to serve good, but they can also be used to manipulate, distract, and weaken an entire generation. That is why she argues PragerU puts morality first, even when the message is not popular and even when the algorithm rewards something else.

The conversation moves into the battle for young minds. William and Marissa discuss why support for capitalism is falling among young Americans, why socialism is being repackaged as compassion, and why schools, corporations, and media platforms have pushed victim mentality over personal responsibility. Marissa argues that America’s problem is not just political. It is moral.

They also break down the difference between PragerU and PBS, the danger of collective grievance, the pressure of ESG and DEI inside corporate America, and why big institutions often make life harder for the small business owner trying to build something real.

Then the episode turns to parenting, social media, technology, and the American dream. Marissa explains why kids need to be taught responsibility, morality, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and discernment before they are handed a phone and thrown into the digital world.

This is a conversation about technology, truth, freedom, parenting, faith, business, and whether America still has the moral immune system needed to survive what is coming next.

Watch until the end for Marissa’s advice on when kids should be allowed on social media, why she compares it to dropping your child off alone at the mall, and why PragerU believes short educational content can start conversations that parents need to be having at home.

CHAPTERS

0:00 Social Media And Capitalism
1:13 Technology Can Serve Good
3:14 Morality Over Popularity
7:57 PragerU Versus PBS
13:17 Victim Bingo Explained
21:12 America’s Moral Immune System
29:20 Why Capitalism Is Losing
31:42 Socialism With Lipstick
37:07 ESG And Corporate Pressure
45:25 Capitalism Is Not Perfect
48:59 The American Dream
57:16 Technology And Technocrats
1:01:41 PragerU For Parents
1:03:31 Kids And Social Media

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

🔥 Why Marissa Streit believes technology must be guided by morality
📱 How social media is shaping the worldview of young Americans
💰 Why support for capitalism is falling among the next generation
🏛️ Why PragerU sees itself as different from PBS and government-funded media
🧠 How schools and institutions push victim mentality over personal responsibility
🇺🇸 Why Marissa believes America needs one shared identity again
🏢 How ESG and DEI create pressure inside corporate America
💼 Why small businesses struggle under regulation and social governance
🙏 Why biblical morality matters to America’s founding and future
👨‍👩‍👧 Why parents need to prepare kids before giving them social media

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📣 Connect with us:
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📣 Guest:
Marissa Streit: https://www.instagram.com/marissastreit/
PragerU: https://www.prageru.com/

SEO KEYWORDS

Marissa Streit, PragerU, William Stern, A Stern Talk, PragerU CEO, social media and kids, capitalism, socialism, communism, American dream

Henry Manoucheri: Religion Is Being Weaponized... | A Stern Talk

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:29:19 +0000

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What happens when a country loses its discipline, its faith, and its will to build?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Henry Manoucheri, founder, chairman, and CEO of Universe Holdings, to discuss Iran, Israel, faith, real estate, inflation, social media, and the American dream.

Henry shares how his family left Iran just before the revolution, why he believes regime change is far harder than most people understand, and what the West still gets wrong about the Iranian government. The conversation moves from war and religion to assimilation, antisemitism, the future of Israel, and why the U.S.-Israel relationship may face serious pressure if America keeps drifting politically.

Then the episode shifts into business. Henry breaks down why he still believes in California real estate, why inflation may stay higher for longer, why young people feel locked out of homeownership, and how discipline, family, faith, and long-term thinking shaped his success.

This is a conversation about survival. National survival. Family survival. Business survival. And the values that either build a future or destroy one.

Watch until the end for Henry’s five-year predictions on mortgage rates, inflation, apartment rents, California real estate, and the U.S. economy.

YOUTUBE CHAPTERS

0:00 Iran’s Regime Problem
6:54 Staying In Power
13:36 Death Culture Explained
20:48 Can Iran Be Free?
25:42 The Assimilation Question
33:00 Mamdani And America
40:52 Jews And Bad Decisions
48:58 Can Iran Fall?
1:05:20 Inflation Is Here
1:20:36 Real Estate Lessons

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

🔥 Why Henry believes Iranian regime change is unlikely without massive force
🇮🇷 How his family left Iran before the revolution and lost everything
⚔️ Why decentralized power makes regimes harder to defeat
🙏 How religion can be used to control desperate populations
🇮🇱 Why Henry believes Jewish unity is key to Israel’s survival
🏙️ Why California real estate may still have the strongest appreciation upside
📈 Why inflation may stay higher for longer
🏠 How young people can still approach real estate and homeownership
💼 Why social media has become essential for scaling modern businesses
🧠 Why discipline, family, and values still matter in wealth building

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📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:
Henry Manoucheri: https://www.instagram.com/henry_manoucheri/

SEO KEYWORDS

Henry Manoucheri, William Stern, A Stern Talk, Universe Holdings, Iran regime change, Iran Israel conflict

Sean Stone: They Made Truth Look Insane... | A Stern Talk

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:09:30 +0000

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What if the stories shaping your life were never meant to inform you, but control you?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with filmmaker, journalist, and investigative storyteller Sean Stone to discuss media manipulation, war, religion, consciousness, Israel, Iran, democracy, and the hidden forces shaping modern society.

Sean breaks down why he believes people are easier to influence than they realize, how Hollywood and news media shape public emotion, and why questioning the official narrative often gets treated like a mental illness.

The conversation moves from RFK and storytelling to Israel, Palestine, Iran, nuclear weapons, religious conflict, open borders, democracy, spiritual corruption, and whether America’s system is still strong enough to survive itself.

This is not a clean, polite media conversation. It’s uncomfortable, controversial, and at times deeply personal.

Watch until the end to hear Sean’s full view on consciousness, power, faith, war, and why the truth may be harder to accept than the lie.

YOUTUBE CHAPTERS

0:00 Media Mind Control
2:54 Sean Stone Joins
7:15 RFK And Storytelling
10:11 America Feels Broken
14:37 Why Iran?
17:47 Israel And Palestine
27:28 No Consequences?
38:09 Iran’s Nuclear Question
44:08 Faith And Consciousness
52:42 Democracy Or Control?

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

🧠 Why Sean believes people are more vulnerable to brainwashing than they think
🎬 How Hollywood, media, and storytelling shape public reality
🔥 Why questioning official narratives gets labeled “crazy”
🌍 Sean’s controversial view on Israel, Palestine, and Iran
☢️ Why nuclear weapons change the rules of modern war
🙏 How Sean connects religion, mythology, and human consciousness
🏛️ Why democracy may be deeply flawed but still hard to replace
🗳️ How blockchain voting could change election trust
🚨 Why open borders become dangerous when the system is already broken

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📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:
Sean Stone: https://www.instagram.com/TheRealSeanStone
https://www.patreon.com/SeanStone

KEYWORDS

Sean Stone, William Stern, A Stern Talk, Sean Stone interview, RFK Legacy, Oliver Stone son, media manipulation, mind control, Israel Palestine debate, Iran nuclear weapons, democracy crisis, religion and politics, consciousness podcast, Hollywood propaganda

What Happens When the AI Money Runs Out? | Tiffany Cianci | A Stern Talk

Wed, 8 Jul 2026 19:20:11 +0000

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What if the AI boom isn’t creating wealth, but quietly shifting trillions of dollars in risk onto ordinary Americans?

In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with entrepreneur and small business advocate Tiffany Cianci to discuss the hidden financial system behind AI, private equity, data centers, retirement funds, and corporate monopolies.

Tiffany explains why companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, and SpaceX may be racing toward public markets, how index funds could expose retirement accounts to major losses, and why private credit firms are suddenly struggling to return investor money.

CHAPTERS

0:00 The AI Slot Machine
6:13 SpaceX’s Hidden Risk
15:05 OpenAI Runs Out
25:27 Renting Human Intelligence
31:04 The Data Center Bubble
38:11 Private Credit Cracks
45:15 Your 401(k) Is Next
57:41 China’s AI Advantage
1:05:55 The Next Recession
1:20:32 The Final Power Grab

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

🤖 Why Tiffany believes today’s AI models aren’t truly intelligent
💸 How massive tech valuations can transfer risk to retail investors
🏦 Why private credit firms are struggling to return investor money
📉 How retirement funds could be exposed to unprofitable companies
💧 Why AI data centers may create major water and energy problems
🧠 How human knowledge became the foundation of the AI economy
🇨🇳 Why China’s open-source AI strategy may outperform America’s model
🌾 How corporate monopolies are reshaping farming and food prices
⚖️ Why regulatory changes could weaken protections for ordinary investors
🔥 How private profits can become public losses during a financial crisis

A STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff

🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.

📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:
Tiffany Cianci: https://www.instagram.com/thevinomom/
https://x.com/thevinomom
https://www.tiktok.com/@tiffanycianci

Keywords

Tiffany Cianci, William Stern, A Stern Talk, artificial intelligence bubble, AI data centers, OpenAI controversy, Anthropic valuation

Why Facts Aren’t Winning Anymore... | Nick Matau | A Stern Talk

Wed, 1 Jul 2026 17:48:07 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=YTSternTalkDemandIs the biggest battle today being fought with bombs... or with narratives?Wars aren't won by military strength alone. They're also won by controlling what people believe.In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Nick Matau to discuss media influence, propaganda, Israel, geopolitics, misinformation, social media, and why winning the battle for public opinion may be more important than winning on the battlefield.Nick shares how his years of studying Middle Eastern history, propaganda campaigns, and geopolitical conflicts shaped his understanding of modern information warfare. Together, they explore why narratives spread faster than facts, how social media has transformed public opinion, and why many of today's biggest political voices may be driven by incentives far beyond ideology.CHAPTERS0:00 The Information War5:03 Politics Or Business?10:34 Tucker Carlson’s Shift16:08 Soviet Propaganda23:06 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding24:12 Winning The Narrative33:00 Why Young Minds Matter42:34 Do Jews Control Media?49:05 Personal Responsibility55:41 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding56:48 Becoming The Media1:04:06 Fighting For TruthWHAT YOU'LL LEARN🌍 Why propaganda often beats facts📱 How social media shapes public opinion🧠 The psychology behind misinformation🎯 Why narratives spread faster than truth⚖️ The difference between influence and control🇮🇱 Why Israel struggles in the information war💼 How commercial interests shape political messaging🤖 The role AI plays in modern research📚 Why history still explains today's conflicts🔥 How to think critically before accepting a narrativeA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:Nick Matau: https://www.instagram.com/dani.matau/SEO KEYWORDSWilliam Stern, A Stern Talk, Nick Matau, Israel, geopolitics, propaganda, media manipulation, information warfare, Tucker Carlson, social media, political commentary, antisemitism, Middle East, foreign policy, Operation SIG, Soviet propaganda, Qatar, media bias, AI research, public opinion

Mayhem Miller Walked Out After This... | A Stern Talk

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:51:30 +0000

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Everyone celebrates the fighter at the top. Almost nobody stays for the crash.

William Stern sits down with Jason “Mayhem” Miller to discuss the brutal transition out of professional fighting, the UFC business model, anger, masculinity, prison, recovery, and what happens when the money and attention disappear.

Mayhem built one of the most recognizable personalities in mixed martial arts. His career extended beyond the cage into television, entertainment, and media. But behind the fame was a much harder story involving injuries, addiction, legal trouble, prison, financial collapse, and the loss of the identity that had defined his life.

The conversation explores whether anger can be used as fuel without becoming a prison, why modern culture often confuses offensive words with actual violence, and whether strong men need vulnerability to survive pressure. Mayhem openly discusses unlearning how to cry in prison, refusing help during his lowest moments, and using alcohol and aggression instead of admitting that he was falling apart.

William and Mayhem also examine the business of combat sports. They discuss the UFC’s control over talent, low fighter revenue shares, weak career transitions, the challenge of unionizing independent fighters, and why athletes are often left with broken bodies, little money, and no clear path into civilian life.

The episode closes with a raw comparison between Mayhem and Mike Tyson—two fighters shaped by violence, fame, collapse, and the stubborn refusal to quit. But when William asks who stayed beside Mayhem at rock bottom, the conversation ends abruptly.

This episode offers a rare look at what happens after the crowd stops cheering. Viewers will walk away with a deeper understanding of identity, accountability, athlete exploitation, emotional control, and why preparing for life after success may be just as important as reaching the top.

Chapters

0:00 Nobody Stayed at Rock Bottom
1:24 Meeting Jason “Mayhem” Miller
5:30 Using Anger as Fuel
8:53 Words, Violence, and Modern Culture
15:35 Can Tough Men Be Vulnerable?
17:09 The Fighter’s Career Crash
21:47 Inside the UFC Meat Grinder
28:00 Did the UFC Change MMA?
35:40 Warrior Culture, Money, and Fighter Pay
55:00 Mike Tyson, Rock Bottom, and the Abrupt Ending

What You’ll Learn

📖 Why professional athletes often struggle when their careers suddenly end
🔥 How anger can create power while also becoming an addiction
🧠 Why losing fame and identity can leave fighters psychologically lost
⚖️ How the UFC business model affects fighter pay and career stability
🌍 Why Japanese and American combat-sports cultures treat fighters differently
💡 Why vulnerability and accountability are essential after personal collapse
🎯 How Mayhem now hopes to guide younger fighters through civilian life
🚀 What happens when the money, cameras, and entourage disappear

A STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff

🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.

📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:
Mayhem Miller: https://www.instagram.com/mayhemmiller/

Keywords

Jason Mayhem Miller, Mayhem Miller interview, MMA career transition, UFC fighter pay, UFC business model, combat sports, fighter mental health, life after fighting, professional athlete retirement, anger management, masculinity and vulnerability, prison and recovery, Mike Tyson, MMA business, William Stern, A Stern Talk

Why Your Brain Wants To Believe The Wrong Thing... | Tom Simon | A Stern Talk

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessThe FBI doesn't work the way Hollywood says it does.Most people think investigations are about kicking down doors, interrogating suspects, and dramatic arrests.The reality is far more interesting.In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Tom Simon, a former FBI Special Agent and founder of Simon Investigations.Tom spent years investigating fraud, financial crimes, public corruption, murders, espionage, and some of the most complex cases in America. He shares what really happens behind the scenes of major investigations, how interrogations actually work, what most people get wrong about the FBI, and why human behavior is often the biggest clue in solving a case.CHAPTERS0:00 From FBI Agent to Private Investigator9:18 How Criminal Investigations Really Work18:42 The Psychology of Interrogation29:15 Getting Suspects to Talk43:01 Why Torture Doesn't Work57:36 Financial Crime & Corporate Fraud1:03:05 January 6, Informants & Conspiracies1:24:30 Jeffrey Epstein Questions Answered1:35:00 Chinese Espionage & Stolen Secrets1:50:31 Fraud-Proofing Your BusinessWHAT YOU'LL LEARN🔎 How FBI investigations are actually conducted🧠 The psychology behind successful interrogations💰 The most common financial crimes businesses face⚖️ Why people confess and how investigators build trust🚨 What companies should do after discovering fraud🎭 The biggest myths people believe about the FBI🌎 How foreign governments steal information and influence policy📊 How to protect your business from embezzlement🕵️ What private investigators really do🎯 Why understanding human behavior is a competitive advantageA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:Tom Simon: https://www.instagram.com/simoninvestigations/simoninvestigations.comSEO KEYWORDSTom Simon, Tom Simon interview, Tom Simon FBI, William Stern, A Stern Talk, FBI agent podcast, former FBI agent, criminal investigations, interrogation techniques, financial crime, fraud investigation, corporate fraud, private investigator, Simon Investigations, white collar crime

How The West Was Turned Against Israel... | Travis Hawley | A Stern Talk

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:02:12 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessHow did Israel go from being attacked on October 7th to being accused of the very crimes committed against it?In this A Stern Talk episode, William Stern sits down with Travis Hawley, a former U.S. Air Force intelligence analyst who previously worked with the National Security Agency, to break down how propaganda, disinformation, ideological subversion, and online narrative warfare are reshaping the way the West sees Israel.Travis explains how narratives are built, seeded, repeated, and eventually laundered through NGOs, media outlets, universities, influencers, and social platforms until false claims begin to look like accepted truth.From Soviet-era propaganda tactics to the modern anti-Israel movement, William and Travis discuss how Western empathy, guilt, grievance culture, and social media addiction have been weaponized to turn students, voters, and ordinary people against their own civilization.They also unpack the Palestinian identity narrative, the role of ideological subversion, the impact of university indoctrination, Qatari influence, hostile foreign propaganda, and why Israel and Jews are losing the information war online.This conversation is not just about Israel.It is about how narratives can be manufactured, how societies become demoralized, and why social media may be one of the most dangerous weapons ever created.CHAPTERS0:00 Israel Gets Accused By The UN6:31 Qatari Money And University Influence16:50 Israel And The Colonizer Narrative27:18 How Social Media Weapons Hack Empathy38:39 The Viral “Dogs” Accusation Case Study46:11 Iran’s Lego Propaganda Videos51:07 Early Warning Signs Of Information Warfare54:09 Why We Need A Common Operating Picture56:20 Building A Private Intelligence Operation1:01:03 Closing Thoughts With Travis HawleyWHAT YOU’LL LEARN🧠 How anti-Israel narratives are built, repeated, and normalized online⚠️ Why Travis Hawley believes Israel has been systematically rebranded as the aggressor📱 How social media platforms amplify propaganda and ideological subversion🎓 Why universities became a major battleground for anti-Western and anti-Israel narratives🌍 How Soviet-era tactics still influence modern propaganda campaigns🔥 Why grievance culture makes people more vulnerable to manipulation🕵️ How narrative intelligence tracks where viral claims really come from🚨 Why false stories can be laundered through NGOs and mainstream media🇮🇱 Why Israel and Jewish people are losing the online branding war⚔️ Why Travis believes social media is becoming a weapon of mass disruptionA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:Travis Hawley: https://www.instagram.com/talk2trav/?hl=enSEO KEYWORDSTravis Hawley, William Stern, A Stern Talk, Israel, October 7, propaganda, disinformation, narrative warfare, ideological subversion, Soviet propaganda, Yuri Bezmenov, Israel UN, anti-Zionism, antisemitism, Qatar funding, university indoctrination, social media propaganda, information warfare, cognitive warfare, Iran propaganda, Palestinian narrative, Jewish history, Middle East politics

MAGA’s Internal War Is Escalating... | Karys Rhea | A Stern Talk

Thu, 4 Jun 2026 20:07:03 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessIs the Republican Party heading toward a civil war?In this A Stern Talk episode, William Stern sits down with Karys Rhea to break down the growing fracture inside modern conservatism, the rise of extremist factions, and why the political spectrum is starting to look less like a straight line and more like a horseshoe.They discuss how the far left and far right end up sounding strangely similar, why anti-American movements keep forming strange alliances, how immigration is reshaping Western democracies, and why the battle for narrative may matter more than policy itself.The conversation moves through Israel, Judaism, American identity, Tucker Carlson, AIPAC, the ADL, political influence, the “red-green alliance,” and why some conservatives believe the Republican Party is being pulled in a dangerous direction.This is a conversation about power, identity, culture, religion, and the future of the American right.Watch until the end for Karys Rhea’s take on the new factions forming inside conservatism and what her upcoming book is trying to expose.CHAPTERS0:00 The Political Horseshoe5:39 Is The GOP Heading For Civil War?8:12 Immigration, Globalism, And The West13:27 Victimhood Politics And Extremism19:49 Where America Goes From Here24:15 The Red-Green Alliance31:55 Jews, Bolshevism, And Narrative Control43:39 Pornography, Hollywood, And Jewish History49:01 Tucker Carlson And The New Right1:00:07 Education, AIPAC, Israel, And The FutureWHAT YOU’LL LEARN🔥 Why the far left and far right can start sounding almost identical⚖️ How extremism often uses the same playbook, even under different labels🇺🇸 Why William and Karys believe America is in a cultural civil war🌍 How immigration, assimilation, and globalism are reshaping Western countries🧠 Why narrative control may matter more than political policy✡️ How Jewish identity, Israel, and American politics collide in today’s debates🎙️ Why Tucker Carlson’s influence is becoming a major fault line on the right💰 What people misunderstand about AIPAC, lobbying, and political power📚 What Karys Rhea’s upcoming book says about the new radical rightA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:https://www.instagram.com/karys_rhea/William Stern, A Stern Talk, Karys Rhea, GOP civil war, Republican Party, conservative movement, far left, far right, political horseshoe, identity politics, Israel, Judaism, Tucker Carlson, AIPAC, ADL, immigration, globalism, culture war, American right

The Dark Side of Luxury Car Dealers... | Peter James Conley & Wells Childress | A Stern Talk

Fri, 29 May 2026 20:50:00 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessWhat happens when classic cars stop being “restored” and start becoming luxury products with a real brand behind them?In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Peter James Connley and Wells Childress of Banyan Motors to talk about the high-stakes world of custom classic car restoration, founder-led branding, German craftsmanship, and why wealthy buyers are not just buying cars.They are buying nostalgia.They are buying control.They are buying the girl that got away.Peter and Wells break down how Banyan Motors went from a car obsession into a serious enterprise, why most restoration shops fail customers with vague pricing and endless change orders, and how their configurator, OEM-style process, and fixed pricing model changed the game.They also get into why analog cars still matter in a world of Teslas, Rivians, screens, automation, and soulless convenience.Watch until the end for a sharp conversation on luxury, entrepreneurship, marketing, craftsmanship, and why the best brands make people feel something before they ever ask about price.Chapters0:00 The Problem With Custom Car Builders3:38 Why Buyers Want Cars They Can Actually Drive6:23 Finding The Right People To Trust13:18 The Origin Story Of Banyan Motors19:13 Building A Custom Car Configurator22:21 Fixing The Broken Restoration Model30:43 Early Mistakes And Expensive Lessons44:34 Why Banyan’s Marketing Works57:03 Museum Piece Or Daily Driver?1:07:28 Why Analog Cars Still MatterWhat You’ll Learn🚗 Why most custom car builds become messy expensive nightmares🔧 How Banyan Motors created a cleaner restoration process🧠 Why fixed pricing builds more trust than vague estimates🏁 Why classic cars still attract successful entrepreneurs📲 How Instagram helped Banyan become a luxury founder-led brand🛠️ Why OEM-style restoration matters for long-term reliability💰 Why premium buyers often want the best option, not the cheapest one🔥 Why analog cars feel more alive than modern over-engineered vehicles🎥 Why Banyan is moving deeper into documentary-style contentA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guests:Peter-James Conley: https://www.instagram.com/yachtsonyachts/Wells Childress: https://www.instagram.com/wells/SEO Keywordsclassic car restoration, Banyan Motors, custom Porsche, custom Mercedes, G-Wagon restoration, luxury car builds, vintage cars, bespoke cars, car configurator, OEM restoration, nut and bolt restoration, luxury automotive brand, Peter James Conley, Wells Childress, William Stern, A Stern Talk

Why College Football Is Falling Apart... | Ben Dogra | A Stern Talk

Thu, 21 May 2026 19:14:44 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessWhat happens when one of the most powerful NFL agents in history finally says what everyone else is too afraid to say?In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with legendary sports agent Ben Dogra for a conversation that spirals into the hidden business of sports, billionaire influence, gambling, politics, media narratives, and how power really works behind the scenes.From college football chaos and NIL money… to NFL ownership, Vegas expansion, political corruption, and billionaires allegedly buying championships — this episode feels like a masterclass on following the money.New episode of A Stern Talk with Ben Dogra out now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.CHAPTERS0:00 The Hidden NFL List2:18 Bernie Madoff Psychology5:10 Media & Sports Corruption8:26 From Poverty To Millions10:07 The Most Powerful NFL Agent15:57 - 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding20:58 How NFL Owners Really Make Money28:37 Billionaires Buying Championships31:31 NIL & Gambling Connections32:05 - 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding37:00 Can Trump Stop NIL?WHAT YOU’LL LEARN 🏈 How NIL money changed college football forever💰 Why billionaires are allegedly buying championships🎰 The hidden overlap between gambling and sports🧠 How powerful people allegedly control narratives📉 Why California is losing wealthy residents🏛️ How NFL owners actually build generational wealth🔥 Why purpose matters more than retirement🚨 The psychology behind money, influence, and status📊 How political power allegedly follows financial power🎯 Why relationships matter more than titlesA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamsternSEO KEYWORDSBen Dogra, A Stern Talk, William Stern, NFL agent podcast, Ben Dogra interview, NIL money discussion, college football NIL, sports business podcast, billionaire sports owners

AI Is Replacing Jobs Faster Than We Think... | Austin Armstrong | A Stern Talk

Wed, 13 May 2026 23:06:01 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessAI is not coming someday.It is already here.In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Austin Armstrong, founder of Syllabi and one of the most influential voices in AI, social media, and vertical video, to break down what business owners are missing about the AI revolution.Austin explains why it is still early for AI adoption, why second-mover advantage may matter more than first-mover advantage, and how tools like Gemini, Claude, Grok, ChatGPT, and agentic AI are changing the way companies operate.The conversation also gets into content creation for small businesses, why business owners do not need to chase viral dances, how service businesses can create educational content that actually drives leads, and why the future belongs to companies that use AI to move faster.William and Austin also discuss AI layoffs, social media addiction, audience growth, vanity metrics, pornography, AI avatars, and why the human experience may become more valuable as technology takes over more of the digital world.This is a conversation about AI, business, marketing, content, attention, and what happens when technology starts moving faster than most people can keep up.What You’ll LearnWhy Austin Armstrong believes AI is still earlyHow business owners should think about investing in AIWhy second-mover advantage may beat first-mover advantageHow Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, Grok, and Gemini are competingWhy service businesses need content now more than everHow Syllabi helps businesses create content from customer search dataWhy going viral is not the same as making moneyHow small businesses can avoid AI overwhelmWhy time inventory is one of the smartest AI strategiesHow AI is affecting jobs, marketing, content, and young menChapters0:00 AI layoffs, avatars, and the future of men5:34 First-mover vs second-mover advantage in AI12:23 Austin Armstrong’s marketing journey from MySpace to Syllabi27:12 Ad Break35:01 How business owners should avoid AI overwhelm44:09 Why AI is coming for every industry53:13 Ad Break54:18 The truth about followers, revenue, and targeted content1:06:54 Austin’s book, AI Mavericks, and AI Marketing World1:24:21 Why AI will touch every professionA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Austin Armstrong: https://www.instagram.com/socialtypro/KeywordsWilliam Stern, A Stern Talk, Austin Armstrong, AI, artificial intelligence, Syllabi, AI marketing, small business AI, business owners, content creation, vertical video, ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Grok, agentic AI, social media marketing, AI tools, AI layoffs, creator economy, AI for business

From Navy Discipline to Million-Dollar Success... | Douglas James | A Stern Talk

Wed, 6 May 2026 20:19:00 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessDouglas James did not come from money.He grew up in a home shaped by abuse, instability, drugs, alcohol, and a lack of real male leadership. For him, the military was not just a career move. It was an escape.In this episode, William Stern sits down with Douglas James, founder and CEO of LeadFi, to unpack how he went from active duty in the Navy to building a nine-figure coaching and consulting empire, launching LeadFi, and creating Payful.Douglas shares how a humanitarian mission in the Philippines changed the way he thought about money, time, and giving back. He explains how he found digital marketing, built an SEO business while still in uniform, lost everything overnight after a Google algorithm update, and rebuilt through paid ads, lead generation, discipline, and faith.The conversation goes deep into entrepreneurship, masculinity, marriage, fatherhood, military discipline, mentorship, and why real leadership starts at home.From the first $7,000 check to a $200,000 Mercedes on base, Douglas breaks down the mindset shift that took him from hope to belief — and from motivation to discipline.What You’ll LearnWhy Douglas James joined the Navy to escape a broken homeHow military discipline shaped his business mindsetHow he made $50K/month while still active dutyWhy his first SEO business collapsed overnightHow one $7K check changed his view of money foreverWhy motivation gets you started but discipline builds empiresHow Sonia supported him when everything fell apartWhy LeadFi was built to solve a real lead-quality problemHow Payful helps businesses offer financing and scale fasterWhy Douglas believes masculine leadership starts in the homeChapters0:00 Douglas James’ broken home and military escape11:18 Choosing the Navy and learning discipline early21:31 Building a business while still active duty27:22 Ad Break28:24 From first $7K check to $100M discipline42:17 Sonia’s support when everything fell apart48:44 Marriage, fatherhood, and leading at home1:07:57 Ad Break1:09:02 Building LeadFi to fix bad leads1:21:55 Payful, credit, and the future of the ecosystem1:31:38 Final lessons on curiosity, faith, and leadershipA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Douglas James: https://www.instagram.com/the_douglasjames/KeywordsWilliam Stern, A Stern Talk, Douglas James, LeadFi, Payful, Navy entrepreneur, military entrepreneur, digital marketing, lead generation, business discipline, entrepreneurship, masculine leadership, fatherhood, faith and business, Navy veteran, business growth, sales leads, buy now pay later, founder story

Are There Really Two Justice Systems in America?... | A stern talk with Matthew Cox

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:51:04 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessMatt Cox didn’t just commit fraud.He studied the system.In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Matt Cox, the former mortgage fraudster who committed over $50 million in fraud during the housing boom, served 13 years in federal prison, and later rebuilt his life through storytelling, writing, and his platform Inside True Crime.Matt breaks down how his childhood, his father’s influence, his sales instincts, and his ability to “work the system” shaped the mindset that eventually led him into mortgage fraud, synthetic identities, and life on the run.But this conversation is bigger than crime.It’s about accountability.It’s about two justice systems.It’s about how banks get bailed out while individuals get buried.And it’s about what happens when someone comes out of prison with gratitude instead of bitterness.From fake identities and FBI raids to prison life, remorse, restitution, podcasting, and redemption, Matt Cox gives a raw look at how financial crime actually works — and what it costs when the game finally ends.What You’ll LearnHow Matt Cox became involved in mortgage fraudWhy he believes there are two justice systems in AmericaHow synthetic identities became part of his fraud schemesWhat it felt like when the FBI finally caught up with himWhy he says prison did not rehabilitate him — he rehabilitated himselfHow Matt rebuilt his life through writing, podcasting, and true crime storytellingWhy he refuses to live with bitterness after serving 13 yearsThe difference between remorse, anger, and accountabilityChapters0:00 Matt Cox on prison, fraud, and two justice systems6:41 Social Security, Ponzi schemes, and where the story begins13:06 Matt’s childhood, his father, and learning how the system works20:23 How Matt learned sales, persuasion, and loopholes early26:13 Cardiff ad break27:15 From mortgage broker to fraud investigations35:05 Synthetic identities, credit profiles, and fake borrowers43:28 The FBI shows up and Matt goes on the run55:29 Getting caught, prison time, and sentence reduction1:09:06 Writing stories in prison and building Inside True Crime1:25:09 Life after prison, restitution, and why people reoffend1:27:07 Cardiff ad break1:28:14 Creativity, painting, and rebuilding a career1:32:00 Remorse, accountability, and the prison system1:46:22 Family, discipline, forgiveness, and final reflectionsA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Matt Cox: https://www.instagram.com/insidetruecrime/KeywordsWilliam Stern, A Stern Talk, Matt Cox, Inside True Crime, mortgage fraud, bank fraud, true crime podcast, federal prison, financial crime, synthetic identity fraud, FBI, prison story, white collar crime, fraudster interview, redemption story

When Politics Turns Radical… What Happens Next? | A Stern Talk with Shabbos Kestenbaum

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:31:24 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessAre elite universities producing thinkers… or activists?In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Harvard graduate Shabbos Kestenbaum to break down what’s actually happening inside America’s top institutions—and why so many young people are walking away from the system they were taught to trust.Shabbos shares his shift from Bernie Sanders supporter to outspoken critic of modern academia, unpacking what he saw firsthand at Harvard—especially in the aftermath of October 7th. The conversation goes deeper than politics. It’s about incentives, ideology, and what happens when institutions stop rewarding truth and start rewarding narratives.They get into the rise of identity politics, the breakdown of assimilation, and why movements on both sides are losing credibility with younger generations. From campus culture to foreign aid to conspiracy thinking, this is a raw look at what’s shaping the next generation—and what it could mean for America moving forward.What You’ll Learn:Why elite universities are shifting away from meritWhat really happened on campus after October 7The rise of ideological alliances on the leftWhy young voters are losing trust in institutionsThe truth about AIPAC, foreign aid, and political influenceHow identity politics is reshaping both partiesWhere the backlash against DEI is headingChapters:0:00 The shift from Bernie Sanders to Trump3:15 Israelis vs the Diaspora mindset6:40 Cultural decline and Europe9:50 Demographics and political shifts13:10 Hungary, Poland, and national identity16:30 The Red-Green Alliance explained19:45 Immigration and assimilation23:15 Welfare data and real-world impacts26:50 Inside Harvard’s culture shift30:20 Victimhood and campus ideology33:45 October 7 reaction on campus37:10 Anti-West activism and vandalism41:00 Fighting dangerous ideologies44:30 Moral responsibility and the left48:15 Identity politics in U.S. elections52:00 Conspiracies and the “grifter right”55:40 Why young people feel lost59:15 The backlash against DEI1:02:50 Education and Jewish identity1:06:30 AIPAC, foreign aid, and influence1:09:24 Final thoughtsA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:Shabbos Kestenbaum: https://www.instagram.com/shabboskest/Keywords:William Stern, A Stern Talk, Shabbos Kestenbaum, Harvard, elite universities, campus politics, identity politics, DEI, October 7, Israel, US politics, academic culture, political ideology

This Is Why Your Testosterone Is Crashing... | Samael Tejada | A Stern Talk

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:42:24 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessMost men don’t realize they’re falling apart until it’s already obvious.They wake up tired. They stop recovering. They gain weight around the middle. Their drive disappears. Their marriage gets colder. Their energy drops. Their sleep gets worse. And then the system tells them this is just what happens after 40.I don’t buy that for a second.In this episode of A Stern Talk, I sit down with Sam Tejada, President of Liquivida, to talk about what’s really happening to men’s health — and why so many men are accepting physical decline like it’s inevitable.We get into testosterone collapse, endocrine disruptors, visceral fat, poor sleep, low energy, infertility, and why the modern medical system is built to manage symptoms instead of actually fixing people. Sam explains why so many men are exhausted, overweight, inflamed, hormonally wrecked, and being pushed from one prescription to the next without anyone asking the real question: what caused this in the first place?We also get into peptides, blood work, body composition, sexual health, and why most men don’t need another excuse — they need a real plan.⏱️ Chapters0:00 Why So Many Men Fall Apart After 401:14 Why I Wanted This Conversation3:30 Sam’s Mission to Age Better Than His 20s5:18 The Broken Medical System7:43 Why Modern Medicine Doesn’t Fix Health11:01 Why Young Men Are Already Infertile12:30 Endocrine Disruptors, Plastics, and Hormone Collapse17:10 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding18:15 The Real Starting Point: Data22:03 Peptides, GLP-1s, and What Actually Works32:29 What the Liquivida Journey Looks Like35:49 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding🧠 What You’ll Learn⚠️ Why low energy after 40 is not something men should accept💥 What’s really driving testosterone collapse in younger men🧬 How toxins and endocrine disruptors affect hormones and fertility😴 Why bad sleep destroys testosterone, recovery, and brain health📉 How the medical system keeps men stuck treating symptoms🔬 What comprehensive blood work can reveal that standard labs miss💉 Which peptides Sam Tahada actually uses himself🏋️ Why movement, lean mass, and visceral fat matter more than most people think🔥 How poor health slowly wrecks confidence, marriage, and masculinity🎯 Why most men do not need more information — they need executionA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:Samael Tejada : https://www.instagram.com/sammy_tejada🔑 KeywordsWilliam Stern, A Stern Talk, Sam Tejada, Liquivida, men’s health, testosterone decline, low testosterone, infertility in men, endocrine disruptors, visceral fat, peptides, BPC 157, TB500, Tesamorelin, GLP-1, healthspan, lifespan, longevity, IV therapy, sexual health

Why Success Still Wasn’t Enough... | Abraham Gray | A Stern Talk

Thu, 9 Apr 2026 04:03:23 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessWhat if making more money still doesn’t make you feel complete?In this episode of A Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Abraham Gray — founder of We Buy Gold, serial entrepreneur, real estate investor, and builder of 40+ businesses.Abraham Gray shares how a chaotic childhood, foster homes, and early survival instincts shaped the way he thinks about money, success, and freedom. By 19, he had already made his first million. But this conversation goes far beyond business.They get into trauma, self-reliance, happiness, abundance, friendship, fatherhood, real estate, and why progress — not money alone — is what keeps entrepreneurs going.This is a deep conversation about what success really means when you’ve already won.Chapters0:00 Troubled Childhood and Early Hustle0:35 Meet Abraham Gray1:45 Gold, Crypto, and Commodities7:56 How His Entrepreneur Journey Started8:25 From Foster Homes to First Business18:35 Why He Dropped Out of College22:42 Cardiff Ad23:46 Humility, Trust, and Success27:30 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding30:47 When Business Becomes Family32:17 Fatherhood and Breaking the Cycle39:05 Why Progress Matters More Than Money43:15 Cardiff Ad48:26 Abundance, Friendship, and Winning Together1:00:16 Real Estate, Lending, and What’s NextWhat You’ll Learn🔥 Why money became freedom for Abraham Gray💡 How childhood pain shaped his ambition🧠 Why entrepreneurs struggle to slow down💰 Why progress matters more than money🤝 How humility helps you win bigger❤️ Why success means more when you help others winA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest:Abraham Gray: https://www.instagram.com/abrahamgrayofficial/KeywordsWilliam Stern, A Stern Talk, Abraham Gray, We Buy Gold, entrepreneur mindset, self-made millionaire, real estate investing, hard money lending, abundance mindset, happiness and success, business psychology, serial entrepreneur, wealth mindset, scaling businesses

He Lost Everything — Then Found His Purpose... | Shawn French

Sat, 4 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessHe lost everything… and that’s when he finally found his purpose.Most people think success is money.A bigger house. A better title. A bigger paycheck.But what happens when you get all of that… and still feel empty?In this episode of Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Sean French — high performance coach, keynote speaker, and host of the Determined Society Podcast — for a deep conversation on sports, sales, identity, fatherhood, discipline, and what it really means to rebuild your life after losing everything.Sean opens up about going from baseball to mortgages, from making great money to starting over with nothing, and from chasing income to finally discovering that purpose matters more than a paycheck. What follows is a powerful conversation about resilience, male leadership, parenting, emotional safety, and why so many driven men spend years trying to prove they’re good enough.This episode is not just about performance.It’s about the pressure men carry.The trauma they rarely talk about.And the difference between being motivated… and being disciplined.Chapters0:00 Success Didn’t Fill the Void1:00 Why Athletes Often Win in Business3:21 How Baseball Built Sean French8:41 Lessons From High-Stakes Sales12:24 Losing Everything in the Mortgage Crash17:19 Rebuilding From Rock Bottom20:49 Discipline Beats Motivation21:45 Ad Break26:23 Why He Started the Podcast34:02 Do You Deserve Success?🧠 What You’ll Learn⚾ Why sports build the mindset that transfers into sales and leadership💼 What high-pressure sales teaches you about communication and people🔥 Why making more money does not fix a lack of purpose🧠 How performance-based love can create people pleasers and perfectionists💥 What Sean French learned after losing his house, car, and identity🏃 Why rebuilding starts with movement, discipline, and small decisions👊 Why men need honest conversations with other men🏠 How to parent with structure, love, and accountability🎙️ What pushed Sean to leave corporate America and go all in📈 Why purpose will always outperform ego in the long runA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Shawn French: 🔑 KeywordsSean French, William Stern, Stern Talk, Sean French podcast, Determined Society, high performance coach, mental toughness, resilience, discipline vs motivation, fatherhood, parenting boys, sports and business, athletes in sales, mortgage crash story, rebuilding after failure, personal growth, male leadership, performance mindset, people pleasing, Sean French interview

The Dangerous Truth Behind Robert Pape’s Take

Fri, 3 Apr 2026 21:33:22 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessWe’re not going to lose this war because of Iran. We’re going to lose it because of math.Everyone’s arguing strategy.Bombs. Missiles. Leadership strikes.But that’s not the real game.In this breakdown, William Stern dismantles the mainstream narrative around a potential war with Iran—and explains why the outcome has nothing to do with battlefield dominance.It comes down to one thing:The balance sheet.The United States is sitting on nearly $40 trillion in debt, trying to fund a prolonged conflict on what is effectively a high-interest credit card.And here’s the part no one wants to say out loud:We don’t even manufacture key military supplies domestically at scale anymore.So the question isn’t “Can we win militarily?”The real question is:Can we afford to stay in the fight long enough?While political commentators debate resilience and ideology, the actual winners are already clear:Defense contractors.Because in modern warfare, win, lose, or draw—they get paid.⏱️ Chapters0:00 Running War Simulations for 20 Years0:09 “We’re Losing Control”0:18 The Nuclear Material Problem0:33 Why Decapitation Doesn’t Work0:57 The Narrative Is Wrong1:12 He’s Right… for the Wrong Reason1:38 The $40 Trillion Reality2:02 Why This War Is Unwinnable2:30 Who Actually Wins3:38 It All Comes Down to Math🧠 What You’ll Learn💰 Why wars today are limited by balance sheets📉 How $40T debt changes military outcomes🏭 Why supply chains matter more than strategy🧾 The hidden incentives behind defense contractors📊 How bond markets can end wars instantly⚖️ Why “winning” doesn’t mean what you think🧠 The difference between narrative vs reality🔥 Why prolonged wars benefit the wrong players📉 How economic weakness undermines global powerA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don’t forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern🔑 KeywordsWilliam Stern, Iran war analysis, US debt crisis, military spending US, defense contractors profits, Raytheon Lockheed war profits, US Iran conflict breakdown, geopolitical finance, sovereign debt war, bond market war impact, war economics explained, US military supply chain, global conflict analysis, economic warfare strategy

Why Most Coaches, Consultants, and Agencies Are Selling Air... | Jason Wojo | A Stern Talk

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:57:53 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessWhat actually separates real business owners from coaches, consultants, and people selling air?In this episode of Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Jason Wojo, founder of Wojo Media, to talk about paid advertising, scaling agencies, client retention, AI in fulfillment, why most businesses fail to convert leads, and what it really takes to grow from $1M to $3M in revenue.Jason breaks down how his agency manages nearly 590 clients, why most marketing problems are actually sales and fulfillment problems, why business owners struggle with trust, and why the coaching space is filled with people selling advice instead of real enterprise value.Chapters: 00:00 Why success comes from hardship

00:28 Meet Jason Wojo

01:05 What’s working in paid ads right now

05:16 Why agencies need fast data and bigger bets

07:35 Why every business is custom

12:23 Building a brand people actually buy into

16:19 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding

17:23 OpenAI ads, coaching, and done-for-you fulfillment

30:55 The hardest part of running an agency

41:19 💰 Ad Break — Cardiff Funding

42:29 Why most client problems are really sales problems

50:22 William Stern on hardship, trust, and real business valueWhat You’ll Learn🚀 Why hardship is often the price of real success🎯 What actually works in digital advertising right now💼 Why most businesses do not need more ideas — they need better execution📉 Why bad sales processes make good leads look bad🧠 Why founders between $1M and $3M often struggle most with trust and delegation🔥 Why done-for-you services usually create more real value than coaching📊 How Jason Wojo thinks about ICPs, offers, KPIs, and scaling ad spend🤖 Where AI helps in marketing — and where clients still reject it⏱️ Why time is the most valuable asset in business⚓ Why real entrepreneurs are built by rough seas, not comfortA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Jason Wojo: https://www.instagram.com/thejasonwojo/https://wojorunsads.com/start?KeywordsWilliam Stern, Stern Talk, Jason Wojo, Jason Wojo interview, Wojo Media, William Stern podcast, Stern Talk podcast, digital marketing, paid advertising, Meta ads, Facebook ads, Instagram ads, Google ads, YouTube ads, agency growth, lead generation, business growth, entrepreneur podcast, coaching industry, consulting industry, marketing agency, client retention, scaling a business, done for you services

Alberto Crane: He Lost 13 Tournaments Before Becoming One of the Best in the World | A Stern Talk

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:03:23 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessWhat does losing 13 tournaments teach you about life, business, and building real resilience?In this episode of Stern Talk, William Stern sits down with Alberto Crane — lifelong martial artist, Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt, MMA veteran, and founder of Legacy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — for a powerful conversation on discipline, failure, leadership, and what it really takes to go all in on your dream.Alberto shares how he started jiu jitsu at 18, moved to Brazil with no real plan, lost for years in competition, lived off credit cards, and still refused to quit. That journey eventually led him to build a lasting business, a powerful community, and a legacy far beyond fighting.Chapters00:00 Losing 13 tournaments and building resilience00:20 Meet Alberto Crane01:02 How jiu jitsu found him at 1803:04 From Santa Fe to Brazil07:30 Hyperfocus, discipline, and getting elite fast11:11 Is fighting an individual sport or a team sport?17:27 Why business is never easy20:04 - BRAD LEA on Why Cardiff Is The Best Choice for Small Businesses26:01 The losses that changed his life40:33 - Adam Corolla on why CARDIFF beats banks. Faster, simpler, no hassle.46:03 How Legacy Jiu Jitsu was built1:03:18 From fighter to entrepreneur and leaderWhat You’ll Learn🔥 Why losing can build real confidence faster than winning💡 How discipline takes over when motivation disappears🥋 Why jiu jitsu is more than fighting — it is community, leadership, and identity🌎 What Alberto Crane learned from moving to Brazil with no backup plan🧠 How repeated failure shaped his mindset and resilience⚔️ Why fighters and entrepreneurs need many of the same traits🏆 What it takes to build a business after a career in competition🤝 How to lead people who do not always share your level of passion📈 Why belief, frequency, and trust matter in leadership🚀 How Legacy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu grew from a small local gym into a true brandA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Alberto Crane: https://www.instagram.com/albertocrane/KeywordsWilliam Stern, Stern Talk, Alberto Crane, Alberto Crane interview, William Stern podcast, Stern Talk podcast, Brazilian jiu jitsu, BJJ, MMA, martial arts, jiu jitsu mindset, discipline, resilience, mental toughness, entrepreneur mindset, fighting and business, fighter to entrepreneur, Legacy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Alberto Crane book

Shane Seo: Why the System Feels Rigged Against First-Time Buyers (And What To Do) | A Stern Talk

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:00:00 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessIn this episode of A Stern Talk, William sits down with real estate investor and fund manager Shane Seo — a self-described “nerdy real estate guy” who went from being born in a trailer park to building a large residential and commercial portfolio through creative finance.Shane breaks down how he bought his first deals with no money, why most people misunderstand passive income, and how creative structuring can outperform traditional bank financing. The conversation dives into seller financing, debt funds, Airbnb speculation, the difference between being rich vs. wealthy, and why thinking in decades — not months — changes everything.They also unpack the 2026 real estate outlook, interest rate predictions, generational wealth building, and what young people need to understand about credit, loans, and long-term investing.Whether you're an accredited investor considering a fund or a young entrepreneur looking to get into your first deal, this episode delivers real tactical insight — without the hype.🎯 What You’ll Learn• 🏠 How Shane bought properties with little to no money down• 💰 The difference between debt funds, syndications, and hybrid funds• 📉 Why “passive income” isn’t as passive as you think• 🔑 Seller financing strategies beginners can use today• 📊 Why thinking in decades beats short-term speculation• 🧠 The mindset difference between being rich vs. being wealthy• 📈 2026 real estate outlook and interest rate predictions• 🏡 Should you buy a home in 2026 or wait?⏱ Chapters0:00 — From trailer park to real estate investor5:20 — Hybrid film fund + real estate strategy explained10:30 — Syndications vs debt funds (what most investors miss)16:10 — 6% vs 8% returns + how his fund works22:00 — Passive income myth vs reality34:00 — Creative finance example (no money down deals)43:00 — Airbnb boom, bust & speculation risks56:00 — 2026 interest rates & housing predictions1:01:30 — Should young people buy a home now?1:07:30 — Wealth vs income + building generational stabilityA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern📣 Guest: Shane Seo: https://www.instagram.com/shaneseo/🔑 KeywordsShane Seo real estate, A Stern Talk real estate episode, creative finance strategy, seller financing explained, real estate debt fund, passive income myth, 2026 housing market outlook, interest rate predictions 2026, generational wealth building, how to buy property with no money

The Real War Dogs Story Is Worse Than The Movie - David Packouz | A Stern Talk

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:21:49 +0000

💸 Fund your Business in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?ut...

David Packouz went from massage therapist to arms dealer… to facing 355 years in prison.

In this episode on Stern Talk, we sit down with David Packouz, the real-life figure portrayed by Miles Teller in War Dogs, to unpack the full story behind the headlines — the Chinese ammo, the 71 acts of fraud, the federal raid, the plea deal, and the moment he realized his business partner might burn every bridge in sight.

We break down:

⚪How a $298M Pentagon contract was won by two guys in their early 20s

⚪The real reason they repackaged Chinese ammunition

⚪What it’s like hearing “you’re facing 355 years in prison”

⚪How the government builds a fraud case

⚪The difference between hustling and crossing the line

⚪And what he learned about partnerships, greed, and long-term reputation

David also explains how he rebuilt his life — launching Singular Sound, inventing the BeatBuddy, and later co-founding War Dogs Academy to teach others how to legally win government contracts.

CHAPTERS

0:00 - Intro

1:03 - Meeting David Packouz and his early days

3:56 - Meeting Efraim and seeing $1.8 million

9:27 - Why the government spends so much money

12:10 - What is the War Dogs Academy?

15:00 - From being broke to becoming millionaires

19:45 - How students learn to win contracts

23:09 - AD BREAK 1: ANDY CARROL

24:15 - How the Rolling Stone article became a movie

30:54 - Real life vs. the Hollywood movie 'War Dogs'

37:41 - The day the federal agents raided the office

43:15 - The secret truth about the Chinese ammo

50:13 - Facing 355 years in prison

55:56 - AD BREAK 2: BILL O'RIELLY

57:00 - Getting arrested for holding a gun

1:15:14 - Making a $60 million profit margin

1:33:51 - What happened after the court case

1:39:11 - Efraim’s crazy prison stories

1:55:11 - The story of the Scorpion and the Frog

2:04:08 - Important life lessons about trust

2:17:41 - Growing up in an Orthodox Jewish home

A STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by Cardiff

💸 Fund your Business the fast and easy way - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?ut...

🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.

📣 Connect with us:

William Stern: / justwilliamstern

📣 Guest:

David Packouz: / davidpackouz

http://davidpackouz.com/

🔑 KEYWORDS

David Packouz, War Dogs true story, War Dogs real life, 355 years prison sentence, government contract fraud, Chinese ammunition scandal, Pentagon contract, federal plea deal, ATF sting operation, arms dealer interview, business partnership betrayal

Yarin Gaon: Why Most Businesses Get Stuck Between $2M–$20M | A Stern Talk

Wed, 4 Feb 2026 17:00:00 +0000

What actually breaks businesses between $2M–$20M isn’t lack of effort — it’s lack of clarity.In this SternTalk episode, I sit down with Yarin, a former venture capital entrepreneur-in-residence who walked away from a high-paying VC role to build something harder, slower, and far more meaningful.We unpack why:⚪Revenue is vanity, profit is truth⚪Most founders get trapped scaling the wrong version of their business⚪Growth stalls when decision quality doesn’t evolve⚪Simplifying beats adding — every timeYarin shares the real framework he uses to help founders get unstuck:pause → identify profit → tighten the model → then scaleWe also go deeper than business — into fatherhood, time, urgency, and why “do it now” isn’t motivation… it’s survival.If you’re running a business that works but feels chaotic, this episode will hit home.What You’ll Learn📉 Why more revenue doesn’t mean a better business🎯 How to identify what’s actually driving profit🧠 The mindset shift founders must make after early success🚫 Why saying “yes” becomes dangerous at scale🛠️ How to reduce complexity before growth breaks you📊 What separates scalable businesses from busy ones⏳ Why urgency and clarity beat motivation🧱 How to build a business your family doesn’t resentA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by CardiffSternTalk Chapters 0:00 — Walking away from VC to build from zero0:39 — Revenue is vanity, profit is what matters1:23 — Building life and business at the same time4:08 — Education, kids, and long-term thinking6:45 — When systems stop working11:28 — Money solves easy problems — not the hard ones19:40 — Time, urgency, and “do it now”27:34 — The hardest stage: rebuilding from scratch44:32 — Why businesses stall between $2M–$20M52:19 — Shrink, tighten, then scale💸 Fund your Business the fast and easy way - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusiness🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamsternGuest: Yarin Gaon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaringaon/KeywordsSternTalk, small business growth, scaling a business, 2 to 20 million revenue, revenue is vanity profit is sanity, founder mindset, business clarity, decision making for founders, simplify business model, EOS strategy

The Untold Story Behind 'Earn Your Leisure' | Michael MacDonald | A Stern Talk

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:33:00 +0000

💸 Fund Your Business, in 5 minutes - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusinessMichael J. Macdonald joins the show to break down what it really takes to build a legacy brand—from staying behind the scenes to stepping into the spotlight. Known as a brand architect and a key force behind Earn Your Leisure, InvestFest, and the broader EYL ecosystem, Michael explains why he kept his name off the brand early on, how he rebuilt his financial foundation, and what finally pushed him to become more visible.This conversation goes deep on sacrifice vs. “wanting to be rich,” how to pursue a dream while keeping stability, why your job is your first investor, and the uncomfortable truth about outgrowing people while still bringing your circle with you. Michael also shares what it means to earn access, how proximity creates power, why “business before friendship” matters in partnerships, and how EYL plans to evolve through 2026 and beyond—including reinvention, community growth, and the real advantage of AI.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamsternMichael MacDonald: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljmacdonald/What You’ll Learn ✅ 🔥 Why “wanting to be rich” is easy—and sacrifice is the real separator🕶️ How to build a massive brand without being the face (and when to change that)💳 What to do when a partner’s credit/finances could slow the company down🎯 The “stay low, keep firing” approach for earning your position over time💼 Why your job is your first investor (and how to use it strategically)🧠 How to build skills in the dark before you step into the light🤝 The circle rule: give advice backward, get advice forward🔑 Why proximity creates access you can’t “buy”🧱 How partnerships survive conflict without breaking trust🤖 Why AI changed the game—and how to use it to build fasterA STERN TALK PODCAST - Presented by CardiffChapters0:00 — Sacrifice, faith, and “work in the dark”1:10 — Why Michael stayed behind the scenes3:20 — The “where were you?” moment that changed everything6:10 — When a partner’s bad credit can slow the brand8:25 — Stay low, keep firing, play your position10:15 — Your employer is your first investor12:40 — When to leap vs. build reps first20:25 — Proximity is power + getting advice forward29:20 — Business before friendship (no feelings)49:25 — InvestFest lessons, conflict, and 2026 goals💸 Fund your Business the fast and easy way - https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusiness🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.KeywordsMichael J. Macdonald, Earn Your Leisure, EYL, InvestFest, EYL University, brand architect, brand building, personal brand, legacy brand, entrepreneurship, business partners, partnership conflict, business before friendship,

“Get in the Room” Is the Worst Advice in Business | Vin Infante | A Stern Talk

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:25:06 +0000

Most people are being lied to about networking.They’re told to “get in the room.”So they spend thousands chasing proximity… and walk away with nothing.In this conversation, we break down why relationships—not access—create leverage, why most coaching rooms are broken, and how the people who actually win stop paying to enter rooms and start building rooms instead.🧠 What You’ll Learn From This Episode🚀 Why relationships scale faster than effort❌ Why paying for access usually backfires🧠 How environment shapes who you become🏗️ Why hosting rooms creates leverage🤝 How to build non-transactional relationships⚠️ The hidden cost of ego-driven networking📈 Why long-term ROI beats short-term wins🎯 How to curate rooms with intention🔑 Why value earns access—not money⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Relationships Are Rocket Ships05:00 – Buying Status vs Building Leverage10:00 – Why “Get in the Room” Fails Most People15:00 – The Problem With Transactional Networking20:00 – Spending Money to Learn vs Wasting Money25:00 – Why Hosting Rooms Changes Everything30:00 – The First Event That Changed His Trajectory35:00 – Curating the Right People Matters More Than Scale40:00 – Why Relationships Compound Over Time45:00 – Men, Women, and Networking Dynamics50:00 – Scarcity vs Abundance in Business Relationships55:00 – Why Most Coaches Are Bad at Results1:00:00 – From Therapy to Coaching to Mentorship1:05:00 – Getting Fired by His Biggest Client1:10:00 – The Difference Between Coaching and Therapy1:15:00 – Why Identity Must Change to Scale1:20:00 – Vetting Clients the Right Way1:25:00 – Why Simplicity Beats Complexity1:30:00 – Final Lessons on Value, People, and GrowthGuest: Vin Infante - https://www.instagram.com/vin.infante/💸 Need business financing? https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusiness🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern🔑 Keywordsbusiness networking, relationships in business, entrepreneurship mindset, coaching industry, networking mistakes, building relationships, personal development, environment and success, leadership growth, high value rooms, access vs value, relationship capital

Rejected 100x, Built a Media Empire Anyway | Larry Namer Founder of E! Entertainment I A Stern Talk

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:00:00 +0000

From splicing cables in Manhattan sewers for $90/week to building a pop-culture juggernaut and reshaping modern media — this episode is a masterclass in scrappy execution, capital raising, and staying “pirate” when the world tells you to play it safe.Larry Namer, founder of E! Entertainment shares the wild early days of launching what became E! (and the mindset that made it possible): getting rejected 100+ times, negotiating deals in boardrooms after coming up through the trenches, sneaking onto the Oscars red carpet, and turning “no budget” into a brand advantage.Then the conversation shifts into what’s next: AI as a tool, how creators can win (or get left behind), and why the future belongs to the people who learn to use the new tech faster than everyone else — from vertical storytelling to global masterclasses and the next evolution of Hollywood.What You’ll Learn🚀 How to build a network when everyone says “you can’t”💥 Why rejection is data — and how to outlast 100 “no’s”🧠 How to sell using retention + customer lifetime value logic🏴‍☠️ How “no budget” can become your brand advantage🤝 What real partnership alignment looks like (and what kills it)🎬 How movie marketing actually works behind the scenes🤖 Why AI is a tool — and the skills that will keep you employed📱 Why vertical storytelling is the next major media wave⏳ The real asset: time — and how tech changes what your time is worth🌍 How global platforms + translation + AI reshape education and entertainmentChapters0:00 — “You were TikTok before the algorithm” + the scrappy Hollywood disruption1:29 — From Turkish-immigrant roots to chasing something bigger2:31 — $90/week in Manhattan sewers: the cable TV apprenticeship4:24 — Union negotiations → fast track into management leadership6:36 — The LA underground cable project… and the Liberace house deal9:23 — The trailer channel insight: marketing movies before theaters10:34 — “MTV of the movies” idea → rejected 100+ times → first real check14:40 — The pitch meeting where the business plan gets thrown at his head18:34 — Scaling E!: operator mindset, retention math, and “pirate” marketing53:46 — AI, vertical storytelling, new media cycles, and the future of creatorsGuest: Larry Namer - https://www.instagram.com/larrynamertv/https://www.instagram.com/larrynamer/💸 Need business financing? https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusiness🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamsternKeywordsLarry E! Network origin story, E! Entertainment Television founder, Talk Soup, E True Hollywood Story, Howard Stern E, Entertainment Tonight, MTV vs E, building a TV network, startup pitch rejected 100 times, business plan thrown, cable TV history, underground cable Manhattan, union negotiation, Time Inc cable

AI Feudalism: Who Owns Intelligence Owns the Future | Travis Oliphant | A Stern Talk

Wed, 7 Jan 2026 19:14:36 +0000

AI isn’t just a technology shift — it’s a power shift.In this deep, wide-ranging conversation, we unpack the real risks behind artificial intelligence: AI feudalism, wealth concentration, loss of autonomy, monopoly power, and why the future isn’t about sentient machines — it’s about who owns intelligence.🧠 What You’ll Learn From This Episode⚠️ Why AI could recreate modern feudalism🏛️ How monopoly power forms in tech & government🤖 Why AI mirrors human psychology — good and bad💰 The real issue with AI isn’t jobs, it’s wealth distribution📚 Why our education system is dangerously outdated🧩 How open-source software protects freedom🧠 Why intelligence ≠ consciousness🛐 How AI could evolve into belief systems🔓 Why democratized AI matters more than regulation🌍 What a future of shared prosperity could look like⏱️ Chapters (with timestamps)0:00 – AI Feudalism Explained: Why AI could recreate medieval power structures3:10 – Corruption, Power & Government Failure: Why big systems always drift toward abuse6:30 – Are Chatbots Making People Psychotic? AI mirrors whatever narrative you feed it9:00 – The Real Fear Isn’t Job Loss: It’s wealth concentration and control12:00 – Why Sentient AI Is Still Far Away And why that’s not the real problem15:00 – Ethics, Bias & AI Training: How post-training shapes reality17:30 – Why We Need Many AIs, Not a Few Power concentration is the real threat20:20 – AI as the Next Religion Mythology, belief systems, and digital gods26:50 – Education Is Completely Broken: What schools should teach instead54:10 – The Future: Applied AI & Shared Prosperity: How AI can expand freedom instead of killing itGuest: Travis Oliphant - https://www.linkedin.com/in/teoliphant/💸 Need business financing? https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusiness🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern🔑 Keywordsai feudalism, artificial intelligence, ai monopoly, open source ai, wealth inequality, ai ethics, future of ai, applied ai, ai autonomy, power concentration, ai regulation, python ai, open source software, ai and society, ai wealth distribution, ai psychology, ai control, ai governance, ai future risks

The Secret Court System Killing Jury Trials | Tiffany Cianci | A Stern Talk

Tue, 6 Jan 2026 19:00:00 +0000

A child dies at a trampoline park… and the family may never see a courtroom.In this eye-opening conversation, Tiffany Cianci breaks down how forced arbitration became a hidden “shadow court system” that protects corporations, silences victims, and blocks jury trials — often through the fine print you unknowingly agree to at theme parks, jobs, appliances, tickets, nursing homes, and more.🎯 What You’ll Learn From⚖️ How forced arbitration blocks your right to a jury trial🤐 Why cases stay secret — and how NDAs silence victims🏢 How corporations use arbitration to avoid public accountability🧾 How “you agreed to it” gets enforced even when there’s no real negotiation🧨 How private equity leverage buyouts load debt onto the company (not the buyer)🏗️ Why selling assets + leasing back can collapse otherwise healthy businesses🍴 Franchise case studies: Quiznos, Jersey Mike’s, and how “rebate revenue” works🛠️ The simplest legal fix that could stop arbitration abuse⏱️ Full Chapters0:00 – A Child’s Death, Waivers, and the Arbitration Trap2:00 – What Arbitration Really Is (and Why You Lose 97% of the Time)5:00 – The Corporate “Cheat Code” That Hides Bad Behavior8:00 – Toys “R” Us: How Private Equity Actually Killed It13:00 – Strip-Mining Companies: Debt, Dividends, and Asset Sell-Offs18:00 – Franchising Gone Wrong (Quiznos, Jersey Mike’s, Five Guys)24:00 – Arbitration Everywhere: Jobs, Tickets, Parks, Appliances29:00 – Why Secrecy Prevents Accountability and Repeats Harm34:00 – The One-Sentence Fix That Could Change Everything38:00 – How Lobbying Protects Arbitration and Consolidation43:00 – Private Equity’s Role After 200848:00 – Leverage Buyouts Explained Simply51:00 – Who Really Benefits From Lower Rates53:00 – Final Warning: Divide-and-Distract While Power ConsolidatesGuest: Tiffany Cianci - https://www.instagram.com/thevinomom/💸 Need business financing? https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?utm_source=Youtube&utm_campaign=BehindTheBusiness🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern🔑 Keywords (All Together)forced arbitration, arbitration agreement, American Arbitration Association, AAA arbitration, NDA waiver, secret court system, jury trial rights, corporate accountability, consumer rights, employee arbitration, theme park waiver, trampoline park injury, private equity explained, leveraged buyout, LBO, Toys R Us debt, Bain Capital, KKR,

Why Smart Doctors Fail as Business Owners | A Stern Talk

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:59:58 +0000

Most professionals don’t fail because they lack skill — they fail because they were never taught how to lead, scale, or step out of the grind.In this episode, Dr. Peter Wishnie — a podiatrist with 34+ years of experience and a decade coaching healthcare providers — breaks down the uncomfortable truth behind why so many high-earning professionals feel trapped, burned out, and powerless inside businesses they built.🎯 What You’ll Learn From This Episode🔹 How professionals get trapped inside their own success🔹 Why leadership ≠ expertise🔹 The difference between lifestyle businesses and enterprise value🔹 How systems and KPIs replace burnout🔹 Why “more patients” is the wrong answer🔹 What private equity actually looks for in acquisitions🔹 How to build a business that works without you🔹 Why mindset beats tactics every time⏱️ Chapters0:00 – Why so many doctors hate their jobs3:10 – Childhood, medicine, and the origin of identity7:00 – Buying a practice with zero business knowledge9:20 – Maxing out credit cards to hire a coach14:40 – Why being a great student matters more than the coach19:00 – The real leadership gap in medicine23:10 – Why taking care of patients isn’t enough30:10 – Revenue per visit vs. volume thinking37:10 – The “Rainmaker Day” that changes everything56:40 – What actually makes a practice sellable (PE insights)Guest: Dr. Peter Wishnie - https://www.instagram.com/coach_peterwishnie/💸 Need business financing? https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?ut...🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://www.instagram.com/justwilliamsterndoctor burnout, clinician leadership, medical practice growth, healthcare entrepreneurship, private equity healthcare, selling a medical practice, revenue per visit, practice management, business coaching for doctors, leadership in healthcare, systems and KPIs, working on the business

Logan Lost $200,000… Then Built a 7-Billion-View Media Company | A Stern Talk

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:47:54 +0000

Logan sits down with William Stern to break down:– How he went from failed dropshipping stores & $200k lost to partnering with top creators– The real story behind building Media Scaling (not the social media highlight version)– What “noise vs signal” means in entrepreneurship– Why motion creates opportunity — and stagnation kills it– How to know if you should DIY content or hire a team– When to pivot, when to persist, and when to fire a client– Why “boring businesses” like plumbers & roofers are unicorns in today’s content world– How sub-accounts create arbitrage on CPMs– Why founders should delegate outcomes, not tasks– The future of high-ticket businesses, social distribution, and AI-enabled growthIf you're an entrepreneur, consultant, founder, or creator…This is one of the most actionable, tactical episodes we’ve ever filmed.📘 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN💥 Why failure is just a decision, not the end💳 How Logan used credit stacking to fund early skills📉 The truth behind 5 years of failed attempts (before success)📈 What sub-accounts are and why they’re CPM gold mines🔍 How to separate noise from signal when scaling🧪 Why consistency outperforms “genius ideas”⚙️ When to hire agencies vs building in-house🧱 Why boring businesses (plumbing, HVAC, roofing) are social media unicorns🎥 How ANY business can create content without being “an actor”🔄 When to pivot, fire clients, or change your entire direction🚀 The future of high-ticket businesses, personal brands & AIGuest: Logan Forsyth - https://www.instagram.com/loganforsyth/💸 Need business financing? https://cardiff.co/business/apply/?ut...🔔 Subscribe for insightful content on AI transformation, business strategy, and industry disruption. Don't forget to hit the bell icon for notifications on future episodes.📣 Connect with us:William Stern: https://www.instagram.com/justwilliamsternLogan Foresight, Media Scaling, William Stern, Stern Talk, digital marketing strategy, sub accounts, high ticket businesses, CPM arbitrage, content marketing, social media growth, entrepreneurship failures

Brad Lea: THIS Blocks Most Entrepreneurs From Winning

Sat, 24 May 2025 17:05:27 +0000

👉 Real Business Growth Summit - Las Vegas - June 7th & 8th 👉 GET YOUR TICKETS NOW - https://realbusinessgrowthsummit.com/

Leadership is the cornerstone of business growth. In this transformative conversation with BRAD LEA, hosts and founders of Cardiff, William Stern and Dean Lyulkin explore why leadership is the key to scaling your business, unleashing your potential, and creating sustainable success.

Packed with strategies to help entrepreneurs, innovators, and dreamers like you, this video dives into the mindset shifts, systems, and tools necessary to amplify your impact and elevate your brand.

Dream boldly, innovate or get left behind, and master the art of leading with confidence. Learn how to overcome the bottlenecks of growth, build a winning team, and embrace systems that set you free to focus on what truly matters.

Whether you're navigating challenges, redefining your relationship with money, or striving to inspire your team, this is a must-listen for entrepreneurs ready to elevate their leadership game.Your next level of success starts here. Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation—because together, we can make it happen. Let’s grow, lead, and thrive!🔔 Subscribe Now & hit the bell icon📣

Connect with us:

Brad Lea: https://www.instagram.com/therealbradlea

William Stern: https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern

Dean Lyulkin: https://instagram.com/deanlyulkin

👉 Real Business Growth Summit - Las Vegas - June 7th & 8th 👉 GET YOUR TICKETS NOW - https://realbusinessgrowthsummit.com/

#digitalmarketing #bradlea #entrepreneurship #entrepreneurpodcast #podcast #businesspodcast

How to Develop Leadership Skills for Life (with James Newton)

Thu, 23 May 2024 20:30:00 +0000

Join our joint business coaching experience with James (30 Day Free Trial): https://jointhefraternity.com/

In this episode of A Stern Talk, we sit down with James Newton, Cardiff's long-time business coach and a visionary in the field of transformational education. James shares his fascinating origin story, from his early days working in the recreation industry to his evolution into a highly sought-after organizational development consultant. He delves into the principles of consciousness and mindfulness, drawing parallels between the lessons learned from whitewater kayaking and the art of effective leadership. James shares invaluable insights into the importance of emotional intelligence, active listening, and fostering a culture of accountability within organizations. This episode is a masterclass in effective leadership styles in management, offering profound wisdom, and practical strategies for navigating the complex challenges of the modern business landscape. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Becoming a Commercial Real Estate Mogul: Growth and Challenges

Thu, 9 May 2024 21:00:00 +0000

In this episode of A Stern Talk, we sit down with Ben Reinberg, a visionary entrepreneur who has built a commercial real estate empire spanning over 11 million square feet. Ben shares his remarkable origin story, from his enterprising childhood selling cigarettes to bar patrons, to his bold move to syndicate his first industrial property deal at just 23 years old. Ben offers profound insights into his strategic approach to building wealth through commercial real estate, including the challenges he's encountered, how he cultivated a thriving network, and how he cultivated his personal brand to achieve next level growth. This episode offers an intimate portrait of a leader who has defied convention and redefined success in the realm of commercial real estate. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Ben’s Webinar (May 21st): https://ben-reinberg.com/the-power-of-perception
Ben's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealbenreinberg/

📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠
Josh Massieh: ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/dontbuyrealestate ⁠⁠
Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/deanlyulkin⁠⁠
Lev Itsygin: https://instagram.com/lev.gpt

Overcoming Bureaucracy

Thu, 2 May 2024 19:00:00 +0000

In Episode 22 of A Stern Talk, we sit down with Ilan Wornovitzky, a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio spanning from real estate development in Mexico to owning/ operating restaurant franchises in San Diego. Ilan shares his captivating origin story, detailing his journey from working in his father's heavy machinery business to venturing into novelty candy sales, construction, and eventually, the restaurant industry. He provides a candid look into the challenges of dealing with unions and government bureaucracy, his experience of opening a restaurant just weeks before the 2019 pandemic, and the importance of adaptability in the face of adversity. Throughout the episode, Ilan engages in a lively discussion about the intricacies of running a successful restaurant, from menu design and marketing to managing customer expectations and creating a memorable dining experience. This episode offers valuable insights into the mind of a resilient and innovative entrepreneur who has successfully navigated various industries and challenges. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

A Stern Talk (Trailer)

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 21:33:18 +0000

The King of ADUs

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +0000

In this episode of A Stern Talk, we sit down with Chris Luna, a real estate entrepreneur who has built a successful business developing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and multifamily properties in San Diego. Chris shares his origin story of how he went from selling candy and cell phones to becoming a major player in real estate development. He shares insights into his strategic approach to acquiring properties near San Diego State University, catering to the student rental market, and his innovative 2-story ADU model that optimizes rental income potential in single-family home backyards. Chris candidly reflects on the challenges he’s encountered, particularly the collapse of an $18 million building deal. Chris also shares valuable insights into the genesis and growth of his Backyard Billionaires community, a platform designed to empower and educate fellow investors. This episode offers an intimate portrait of a visionary entrepreneur who has defied convention and redefined success in the realm of real estate development. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Chris Luna:

https://www.instagram.com/chrisj.luna/

https://www.backyardbillionaire.com/

📣 Connect with us:

William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠

Josh Massieh: ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/dontbuyrealestate ⁠⁠

Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/deanlyulkin⁠⁠

Lev Itsygin: https://instagram.com/lev.gpt

Secrets to Building a Thriving Brand with Albert Preciado

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 21:00:00 +0000

In Episode 20 of "A Stern Talk," we welcome back Albert Preciado, the visionary entrepreneur behind the Driven brand. Preciado shares updates on his latest ventures, including Driven Funding, a partnership with Cardiff. He also highlights strategies for leveraging social media to build a strong brand, the importance of staying authentic in the face of criticism, and insights on the power of strategic partnerships. Join us for another inspiring discussion with Albert as he shares his experiences and practical advice for entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey. Share your thoughts and engage with us on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

📣 Connect with us:

William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠

Josh Massieh: https://instagram.com/dontbuyrealestate

Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/deanlyulkin⁠⁠

Lev Itsygin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/lev.gpt

David Meltzer: Empowering Entrepreneurs

Thu, 4 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +0000

In Episode 19 of "A Stern Talk," we're joined by renowned entrepreneur and motivational speaker, David Meltzer. Meltzer shares his insights into his recent venture, MeltzerFunding.com, which focuses on providing critical financial support to underserved small businesses, particularly those owned by women and people of color. This episode highlights the challenges these businesses face in securing capital, especially in the crucial phase after startup when they need funds to fuel growth. Meltzer also touches on his personal mission to give back to the communities that have supported his own success. The conversation underscores the vital role that access to capital plays in empowering diverse entrepreneurs to build thriving businesses. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

https://meltzerfunding.com

📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠
Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@deanlyulkin⁠⁠
Lev Itsygin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@lev.gpt

#smallbusiness #businesses #business #entrepreneur

Dr. Jaquish: Weightlifting is a Waste of Time

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 20:33:00 +0000

In Episode 18 of "A Stern Talk," we’re joined by “the Tony Stark of the fitness industry,” John Jaquish, PhD. Dr. Jaquish shares his journey of innovation in fitness and health, starting with a personal mission to combat his mother's osteoporosis that led to the development of the groundbreaking OsteoStrong device, followed by the X3 fitness system, aimed at maximizing muscular development with minimal time commitment. Throughout the episode, Dr. Jaquish underscores his philosophies with insights from his own experience and research. The conversation focuses on the potential for technology to transform personal fitness. Dr. Jaquish's story is a compelling narrative of how personal challenges can lead to innovation that benefits a wide audience. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Dr. Jaquish’s website: https://doctorj.com/ Dr. J's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjaquish/

📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠
Josh Massieh: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@dontbuyrealestate ⁠⁠
Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@deanlyulkin⁠⁠
Lev Itsygin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/@lev.gpt

Ricky Carruth and Albert Preciado: Personal Brand Ambassadors

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 19:00:00 +0000

In episode 17 of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern and Josh Massieh welcome two giants of the real estate world, Albert Preciado and Ricky Carruth. Albert Preciado, renowned for his Million Dollar Coaching and the national event Driven, alongside Ricky Carruth, a highly esteemed real estate professional and coach, share their wealth of knowledge and experiences. Albert and Ricky delve into their unique paths in the real estate industry, highlighting their philosophies on building relationships, leveraging social media, and the significance of direct and email marketing in today’s digital age. The episode is packed with strategies, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of real estate and entrepreneurship. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk). Whether you're in the industry or aspiring to be, there's something in this episode for everyone.

Ricky Carruth: https://www.instagram.com/rickycarruth/
Albert Preciado: https://www.instagram.com/thealbertpreciado/

📣 Connect with us:
William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠
Josh Massieh: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/dontbuyrealestate ⁠⁠
Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/deanlyulkin⁠⁠
Lev Itsygin: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lev.gpt

The Real Estate Prophet

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 21:00:00 +0000

In this episode of "A Stern Talk," we welcome guest Kevin Ehm, a distinguished real estate coach and investor renowned amongst his peers as "the Prophet." Kevin delves into his compelling journey, tracing his path from a challenging adolescence, overshadowed by his family's financial hardships, to his ascension as a celebrated figure within the realm of real estate. He recounts his early beginnings in the banking sector, which paved the way to his successful venture into real estate, accentuated by his notable experiences in network marketing. Kevin's narrative is a powerful homage to the virtues of resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

📣 Connect with us:

William Stern: ⁠⁠⁠@justwilliamstern⁠⁠⁠

Josh Massieh: ⁠⁠@dontbuyrealestate ⁠⁠

Dean Lyulkin: ⁠⁠⁠@deanlyulkin⁠⁠

EP:Lev Itsygin: ⁠@lev.gpt

The Entrepreneurial Lawyer

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

In episode 14 of "A Stern Talk”, hosts William, Josh, and Dean chat with founder/CEO of Lawmatics, Matt Spiegel (@Lawmatics_CRM). A multifaceted entrepreneur with a rich background in law and technology, he started his career as a criminal defense lawyer. Matt's entrepreneurial journey was sparked by a desire to improve client communication within his law firm. This led to the creation of a revolutionary legal tech company, which he later sold for a significant sum before venturing into another software company aimed at streamlining trade show management. Throughout the conversation, Matt shares insights on the entrepreneurial mindset, the importance of solving real-world problems, and his experiences navigating the complexities of starting and selling businesses. His story is a testament to the power of identifying gaps in the market and leveraging technology to create impactful solutions. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

📣 Connect with us: William Stern: ⁠@justwilliamstern⁠

Josh Massieh: @dontbuyrealestate

Dean Lyulkin: ⁠@deanlyulkin⁠

Ricky Carruth: A New Era of Real Estate

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

In this episode of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) sit down with renowned real estate expert and coach, Ricky Carruth (@rickycarruth). They delve into Ricky's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a top real estate agent and coach, sharing invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a successful career. The conversation spans a range of topics, including the importance of resilience, the power of authentic client relationships, and strategies for achieving long-term success in the competitive world of real estate. Ricky's stories and perspectives offer a trove of motivation and practical advice, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their professional life. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Lessons from the Digital Business Frontline

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

In Episode 12 of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) welcome Dean Lyulkin (@deanlyulkin), co-founder of Cardiff. The discussion opens with reflections on personal branding and networking, emphasizing the importance of relationships and strategic connections in business growth. They delve into the transformative power of facing personal challenges and the realization of the importance of time, leading to a shift towards more meaningful business practices. Lyulkin shares insights into Cardiff's mission and approach to small business lending, highlighting innovative strategies for digital marketing and customer engagement. The episode also explores the concept of creating value through partnerships and leveraging personal experiences to foster business and personal growth. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Part 2: San Diego's Nightlife Architect: Mike Georgopoulos (RMD Group)

Thu, 8 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000

In the part 2 of 2 of this compelling episode of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) continue their conversation with Mike Georgopoulos (@mikeygsd), delving deeper into the intricacies of running a successful hospitality business. This episode focuses on the strategic operations behind RMD Group's success, including the division of labor among partners, the challenges and strategies of scaling restaurant concepts, and adapting to market changes. Mike shares insights on managing investor expectations, the importance of having the right team, and the nuances of location selection for new ventures. The discussion also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the industry and the future of nightlife and dining experiences, emphasizing adaptability, innovation, and the critical role of customer service in the hospitality business. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

San Diego's Nightlife Architect: Mike Georgopoulos (RMD Group)

Fri, 2 Feb 2024 00:23:56 +0000

In this engaging episode (part 1 of 2) of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) chat with Mike Georgopoulos (@mikeygsd), the dynamic co-founder of RMD Group (Rustic Root, Huntress steakhouse, Lumi by Akira Back, and Johnny WAHOO Golf Bar), a key player in San Diego's hospitality scene. The conversation delves into Mike's entrepreneurial journey, highlighting his experiences and challenges in establishing some of San Diego's most popular restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Key topics include the nuances of the hospitality industry, customer service excellence, and the strategic aspects of creating and scaling successful venues. Mike's stories and insights offer a behind-the-scenes look into the world of hospitality, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of building meaningful relationships. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Part 2: Albert Preciado: From Struggle to Success in Real Estate and Beyond

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:00:00 +0000

In Episode 9 (Part 2 of 2) of 'A Stern Talk,' hosts William Stern and Josh Massieh continue their engaging dialogue with Albert Preciado, the entrepreneurial mind behind The Mortgage Guys, Ambiance Realty, and the DRIVEN event. This episode delves deeper into Albert's strategic approach to business, discussing the pivotal role of mentorships, the power of branding, and the impact of social media on his success. Albert reflects on the critical decisions that propelled his businesses forward and shares his philosophy on leadership, team building, and creating a culture of excellence. His insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders alike. Tune in for this enlightening conclusion to Albert's story of resilience and triumph. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Albert Preciado: From Struggle to Success in Real Estate and Beyond

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 17:00:00 +0000

In Episode 8 (Part 1 of 2) of 'A Stern Talk,' hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) sit down with Albert Preciado (@thealbertpreciado), the trailblazing entrepreneur behind The Mortgage Guys, Ambiance Realty, and the renowned DRIVEN event. This episode delves into Albert's past struggles with substance abuse and legal challenges, and how overcoming these obstacles paved his way to remarkable business success. His candid reflections offer deep insights into overcoming adversity, fostering personal growth, and harnessing entrepreneurial spirit. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of how challenges can be transformed into stepping stones for success, and don't miss the continuation of this compelling narrative in Part 2 next week. Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our social media channels (@ASternTalk).

Part 2: From Brains to Bugs - An Entrepreneur's Unlikely Path

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 20:00:00 +0000

In Episode 7 (Part 2 of 2) of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) continue their insightful conversation with Riley Edwards, founder of ⁠wedocreepy.com⁠. This episode dives deeper into the entrepreneurial journey of Riley, exploring the nuanced challenges and opportunities he encountered while expanding his pest control business. Riley delves into the complexities of scaling a business, managing human capital, and maintaining integrity in a competitive industry. He also discusses the impact of digital marketing and sales strategies on growth, and the balance between rapid expansion and steady, value-aligned development. Join us for this concluding part of a rich dialogue that not only sheds light on the intricacies of entrepreneurship but also imparts practical wisdom for budding business owners. Tune in for an engaging and educational episode, and don't forget to share your thoughts on our socials (@ASternTalk)!

Part 1: From Brains to Bugs - An Entrepreneur's Unlikely Path

Fri, 5 Jan 2024 05:52:11 +0000

In Episode 6 (Part 1 of 2) of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) sit down with Riley Edwards, founder of wedocreepy.com, a pest control company. Riley recounts his transition from a fledgling neuroscience student to a pioneering pest control entrepreneur, blending insights from his religious upbringing including experiences like being a Mormon missionary in "Sin City”, to exploring his first business venture. Riley shares insights into the challenges and triumphs he faced while transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship, offering valuable lessons on resilience, innovation, and the power of a diverse skill set. This episode is a rich exploration of how varied life experiences can converge to create successful and unique business models. Don't miss this insightful dialogue, subscribe for more wisdom, and join us next week for the enlightening conclusion in Part 2. Share your feedback and topics you'd like to hear about on our socials (@ASternTalk)!

From Employee to Everbowl - Face to Face with Jeff Fenster

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 20:30:55 +0000

Dive into Episode 5 of 'A Stern Talk' where William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) sit down for an enlightening discussion with Jeff Fenster, serial entrepreneur and innovative founder of Everbowl. This episode explores the journey of transforming from an unhappy employee to an entrepreneurial success. Jeff shares his remarkable story of resilience, detailing how he navigated the challenges of starting and scaling businesses, including his venture into the payroll industry and the inception of Everbowl. The discussion delves into the world of entrepreneurship, highlighting the crucial aspects of seizing opportunities during economic downturns, understanding the intricacies of equity-based crowdfunding, and the importance of relationship-based selling. It's an inspiring episode packed with valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. Tune in for an episode filled with real-world experiences, strategies for business growth, and the mindset needed to succeed in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. Subscribe and join the conversation on our socials (@ASternTalk) with your feedback and business owners you'd love to hear more about!

The Art of Online Influence

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

In Episode 4 of 'A Stern Talk,' William Stern (@justwilliamstern) and Josh Massieh (@dontbuyrealestate) dive deep into the power of social media for business growth. This episode focuses on the transformative role of platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn in creating impactful content and generating leads. They discuss the nuances of viral content, the art of engaging an audience, and the subtle differences in content strategy across various platforms. The hosts share their personal experiences and insights on building a brand, staying authentic, and leveraging humor to connect with diverse audiences. They also explore innovative tactics for maximizing social media algorithms and converting online engagement into tangible business results. Essential for real estate professionals, digital marketers, and entrepreneurs, this episode delivers a blend of humor, real-world examples, and practical strategies for anyone looking to harness the full potential of social media in business. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to create a lasting impact and drive success through digital platforms. Subscribe now and join the conversation with your thoughts and feedback on our socials (@ASternTalk)!

Navigating the Digital Marketing Maze

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

In the third episode of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern of Cardiff and Josh Massieh from @dontbuyrealestate discuss the intricacies of building effective lead funnels and the balance between paid and organic marketing strategies. The conversation touches on the challenges and opportunities of digital marketing, the importance of understanding and leveraging multiple digital platforms for business growth, and the nuances of targeting and content creation for different audiences. This episode is packed with practical advice and insights for entrepreneurs and marketers aiming to optimize their online presence and lead generation tactics. It's a must-listen for those seeking to navigate the complex world of digital marketing and lead generation effectively. Subscribe for weekly wisdom, and join the conversation by leaving a review and reaching out on our socials (@ASternTalk) with your thoughts and topics you're eager to hear about!

Authenticity in the Age of Algorithms

Sat, 9 Dec 2023 23:26:57 +0000

In the second episode of "A Stern Talk," hosts William Stern of Cardiff and Josh Massieh from @dontbuyrealestate dive deep into the world of lead generation and the power of social media in business. Listen in as they candidly share their experiences with the pitfalls and triumphs of online marketing, emphasizing the significance of authentic engagement over purchased leads. They'll explore how platforms like Meta capitalize on user engagement and discuss the strategic pivot from traditional lead funnels to organic social media growth. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on navigating the ever-changing digital landscape, harnessing the irony of social handles, and leveraging personal connections for business success. Whether you're a small speedboat in the vast sea of marketing or a major player facing the harsh winds of economic change, this conversation is tailored for anyone looking to sharpen their social media savvy. Tune in, subscribe for weekly wisdom, and join the conversation by leaving a review and reaching out on our socials (@ASternTalk) with your thoughts and topics you're eager to hear about.

Humble Beginnings

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 23:46:53 +0000

In our inaugural episode, join us as we explore the remarkable business journeys of our hosts, William Stern, CEO of Cardiff, and Josh Massieh from @dontbuyrealestate. Discover how William navigated his way from humble beginnings during the 2001 market collapse to founding his own thriving company. Also, hear Josh delve into his entry into the real estate world, sharing insights on how his experiences and evolving market dynamics have shaped his career. This episode offers a profound look at life's unpredictability, career transitions, and the bold spirit inherent in entrepreneurship. "A Stern Talk" is aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business professionals alike, offering insights, stories, and advice. Subscribe to stay updated on our weekly episodes. We'd love to hear your thoughts, so please leave a review and reach out to us on our socials (@ASternTalk) with any feedback or topics you'd like us to explore.