What if your brand wasn’t just what you did—but who you are, out loud? In this episode of, Jim Cathcart with Eric Swanson—aka “Mr. Awesome”— dive into what it really takes to build a thriving, purpose-driven business as a professional expert. They talk mentorship, masterminds, and the intentional strategies that fuel long-term success. From Eric’s early days working with Brian Tracy to launching global speaker networks and high-impact masterminds, you’ll hear what separates charismatic energy from calculated excellence.

Whether you’re a speaker, coach, author, or aspiring thought leader, this candid conversation delivers gold: stories from the road, lessons on building a brand that’s true to you, and a reminder that expertise—when nurtured with integrity and joy—can change the world. Plus, Jim and Eric share how to become a Certified Professional Expert and why proximity to greatness shapes who you become.

About the Host:

Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.

Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.

Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.

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Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs