This episode is everything I wish more founders knew about fundraising—from why net sales matter more than gross to how valuations are actually shaped (spoiler: it’s not just about your revenue multiple). We talk about the mindset it takes to build a brand that lasts, how to stay focused when the market is noisy, and why so many founders get stuck chasing exits instead of building businesses.

Whether you’re getting ready to raise or still in the messy middle, Rodney brings two decades of honest, no-BS insight. This conversation is one I wish I had ten years ago—and I think a lot of founders will feel the same.

Fundraising in 2025 feels different than it used to. It is harder, slower, and less forgiving than in years past. In this episode, I sit down with Steve Young—an experienced operator, investor, and partner at Manna Tree—to have an honest conversation about what is really happening in the investment landscape right now.

We cover:

• Why the bar for raising money has become significantly higher
• What actually makes investors say yes in today’s market
• How self-awareness has become one of the most valuable traits a founder can possess
• When it might be time to double down—or step aside
• Why a polished pitch deck no longer guarantees interest

If you are in the trenches trying to raise capital, scale your brand, or simply lead with more intention, this episode will meet you where you are.

My candid conversation with VC Andy Whitman — why he turned me down, what I learned, and what you need to know before pitching your brand to an investor. We get into the mistakes founders make, how investors actually think about valuation, and why the best time to raise money is when you don’t need it.

After an intense Olympic lifting session at CrossFit Boston, Melissa Urban sat down with her original co-founder and came up with a plan. The idea was simple: “What if we just did this squeaky clean, paleo-based 30-day thing and eliminated everything from our diet that didn’t fit this protocol?”

And just like that, Melissa handed over her Thin Mints to a friend and they started that day. The results were amazing. Her energy skyrocketed, her sleep improved, and for the first time, she was able to step away from the scale and the mirror. The experience inspired her to share her experience on her CrossFit training blog, and by July 2009, she was leading about a hundred people through the program. The results were equally transformative for them, marking the birth of the Whole30 as we know it today—a movement that has since helped millions of people.

In today’s episode, Melissa Urban shares the story behind the Whole30, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global wellness phenomenon. She also discusses her journey as a New York Times bestselling author, offering valuable insights for aspiring writers on publishing, working with literary agents, and staying true to one’s vision. Whether you’re looking to transform your health, pursue entrepreneurship, or build a meaningful platform, Melissa’s story is sure to inspire.

Takeaways:

• Discover how moving away from rigid beliefs can open up more realistic and adaptable approaches in your health and life.
• Learn how focusing on long-term community-building can lead to enduring success and deep trust with your customers.
• Why setting strong boundaries and having a supportive partner is crucial for managing both entrepreneurship and family life.
• Why offering valuable content for free can create a loyal following and drive transformative engagement.
• The importance of recognizing and acknowledging the support and privileges that contribute to your achievements.

Dr. Will Cole shares his journey from pioneering telehealth in functional medicine to becoming a bestselling author and podcast host. He dives into the secrets of publishing a book, building a loyal podcast following, and balancing work with family life—all while staying true to your passion. Tune in for practical advice on health, writing, and making an impact.

Brad Ebenhoeh, co-founder of Accountfully, envisioned a new type of accounting firm that would one day revolutionize the industry. By zeroing in on bookkeeping and providing valuable services to small businesses, Brad and his crew flipped the traditional accounting model on its head and hit it big. What was their secret?

• Nailing product-market fit
• Finding the perfect timing
• and really tuning in to what customers need.

Accountfully’s innovative approach to bookkeeping includes making things efficient and offering flexible schedules, which has led to a great work-life balance for the team. In this episode, Brad also drops some wisdom on working with your spouse, setting boundaries, and taking breaks to hang out with family and friends. Today, Brad's journey shows how far innovation, balance, and listening to your market can take you.

Gervase left her corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship and become a life coach. But it all started with a sudden realization that led her to make a drastic change and open herself up to receive the love and support she needed from her spouse.

In today’s episode, Gervase makes the case for increasing our tolerance for discomfort. She also explores the delicate balance between masculine and feminine energies and the importance of creating systems for self-care in family dynamics.

Gervase is an absolute master at helping people learn how to self-regulate break the cycle of overwhelm and burnout, listen to today's episode to learn how you can do it, too.

Stephen's life has been a journey of pursuing various creative projects and interests, not limited by fear of failure or societal norms. His philosophy? Chase what brings you joy, live your truth, and take risks. From designing for brands to supporting his son's snowboarding talent, Stephen's story is a testament to the power of embracing uncertainty and making conscious trade-offs in life. His advice for parents of talented kids emphasizes the importance of fun and understanding your child's capabilities.

Despite facing obstacles, Stephen finds joy and fulfillment in pursuing his passions and spending time in nature with his family. His story is an inspiring call to action to dive headfirst into what ignites your passion and to live life on your own terms—without fear.