Success isn't a secret. It's a system and we teach it every day. Next Level University is a top-ranked daily podcast for dream chasers, entrepreneurs, and self-improvement addicts who are ready to get real about what it takes to grow. Hosted by Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros, this show brings raw, honest conversations about how to build a better life, love more deeply, lead with purpose, and level up in every area... from health to wealth to relationships. With over 2,000 episodes and liste ...
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Kevin Palmieri And Alan Lazaros Podcasts
Second Life Leader is the podcast and newsletter for those burned by the system—and bold enough to build something better. I’m Doug Utberg, and this platform is for founders, rebuilders, creatives, and professionals who’ve been gutted by layoffs, divorce, burnout, or failure—and still refuse to quit. Each episode delivers raw, unsanitized conversations with leaders who’ve walked through fire, rebuilt from nothing, and now lead with clarity, presence, and conviction. We talk: Career reinventi ...
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Learning from some of the top thinkers in the modern world, while we explore the idea, "How would you live if you TRULY KNEW GOD lived within you?" My goal is to provide interviews that you can't find anywhere else by avoiding the questions everyone asks everywhere else. This is The Quinton Sanicola Show.
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This Is The Biggest Reason People Quit (2163)
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18:24Why do so many people quit before they see success? In this episode, Kevin and Alan break down the real reason people stop short. Through honest stories of failure, rejection, and resilience, they reveal why confidence is the foundation of growth and how to build it step by step. From learning through small “micro-failures” to knowing when to trust…
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Consistency plants the seed, improvement helps it grow. In today’s episode, Kevin and Alan reveal why simply showing up isn’t enough. You also need sustainability and continuous improvement to create lasting growth. From business and health to relationships and daily habits, they share how to move beyond “just being consistent” and start building r…
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IF You’re Looking For The One Thing… You’ll be Looking Forever (2161)
27:50
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27:50In this episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros shatter the myth of quick fixes, showing that true growth begins with tackling your greatest challenge today. With wisdom from legends like Tom Brady and Michael Phelps, they reveal how to spot what’s holding you back and ask the one question that clears the path forwar…
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Effective Leaders Juggle Multiple Hats with Charlie Newcomb
26:10
26:10
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26:10Former corporate soldier turned sovereign strategist Doug Utberg dives deep with Amazon bestselling author Charlie Newcomb on the many hats of effective leadership—listening to lead, influencing without authority, delegating without losing accountability, and knowing when to break the rules you wrote. From 40+ years in McDonald’s corporate trenches…
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Why Self-Worth And Goals Don’t Mix (2160)
27:27
27:27
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27:27Are your goals quietly chipping away at your self-worth? In today’s honest and eye-opening episode, Kevin and Alan share the truth about balancing ambition with self-respect. From saying “yes” to everything in the early days to learning when to walk away, they reveal the lessons, mistakes, and mindset shifts that helped them grow without losing the…
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Sometimes You Have To Manufacture Necessity (2159)
23:53
23:53
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23:53When purpose meets pressure, consistency is born. In this episode, Kevin and Alan share how to “manufacture necessity” so staying consistent isn’t optional. From the $100 Habit challenge to public accountability, they reveal simple ways to turn pressure into progress and keep your goals on track. Whether you’re chasing a personal milestone or a pro…
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Your Environment Affects You More Than You Think (2158)
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21:25In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros share how the rooms you enter, the tools you keep close, and even the quiet corners you design can lift your focus, sharpen your habits, and move you toward your dreams. From the gym to your desk to your kitchen, every detail whispers to your future self. Choose them…
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The “Bowtie” And What It Means For Your Goals Part 2 (2157)
18:37
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18:37What if the real breakthrough comes after you’ve “made it”? In this episode, Kevin and Alan bring fresh insight to the “bow tie” concept, how your effort and results evolve, and why the smartest move is to keep giving your best long after success arrives. They share stories from their journey, lessons from world-class performers, and the mindset sh…
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A Business That's Built to Buy with John Knowlton
25:54
25:54
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25:54Second Life Leader is where burned-out high achievers come to rebuild—not retreat. I’m Doug Utberg, former corporate soldier turned sovereign strategist. If the old game broke you but didn’t kill your fire, you’re in the right place. In this episode, I’m joined by John Knowlton, a veteran of 20+ mergers and acquisitions, to unpack the real playbook…
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The “Bowtie” And What It Means For Your Goals (2156)
15:47
15:47
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15:47From heavy toil to effortless flow, success blooms slow. In today’s episode, Kevin and Alan reveal “The Bow Tie”, a simple way to see why results are slow at first and how momentum can flip the game. With Oprah’s work ethic and their own eight-year journey as proof, this episode shows what it really takes to win big over time. Free 30-minute Busine…
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In this episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros share why clarity is the cornerstone of success and fulfillment. From understanding your core values to knowing exactly what to say “yes” or “no” to, they offer practical tools to align your actions with your vision. Expect a mix of real talk, friendly banter, and pract…
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What if the secret to greater success was learning to think in two ways at once? In today’s episode, Kevin and Alan share how “thinking in duality” can sharpen decisions, boost accuracy, and create bigger wins by blending hard work with smart work and presence with future planning. If you’re stuck in black-and-white thinking, this will help you see…
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You Can’t Build REAL Success Without This (2153)
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36:28Systems win where motivation fails. In this episode, Kevin and Alan share the hard truth about success. From the early days of handwritten trackers to the digital tools they now use with clients, you'll learn how small, consistent actions lead to real results. Whether you're trying to get in shape, grow your business, or build better habits, this e…
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Your Adversity COULD Be Your Advantage (2152)
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27:55In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros share raw, real stories of how pain became purpose. From anxiety before interviews to overcoming trauma, they reveal how adversity, when faced head-on, can become fuel for growth. You'll hear inspiring client stories, practical mindset shifts, and a reminder that wha…
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The Reason People Villainize Discipline (2151)
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27:00Is it discipline that’s too harsh or the discomfort it brings to those unwilling to change? In this soul-stirring episode, Kevin and Alan uncover why discipline is often seen as the enemy when in truth, it’s the doorway to your highest self. They share how setting bold goals reshapes your world, shifting your habits, your circles, and even your sen…
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Why Leadership is So Hard with Alan Lazaros
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35:06Leadership isn’t hard ... It’s brutal. In this episode of Second Life Leader, I sit down with Alan Lazaros—CEO of Next Level University, 10,000+ hours of coaching, 2,000+ podcast episodes—and we tear the mask off what real leadership demands. We talk: * The brutal reality of scaling too fast (and crashing harder) * The secret poison of B players wh…
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Why Is Belonging So Important? (2150)
1:04:51
1:04:51
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1:04:51To grow is to glow, even if you go alone. In today’s episode, Kevin and Alan open up about their lifelong struggles with belonging and how being different has shaped their identities, careers, and relationships. They talk through what it’s like to feel out of place in everyday situations, the pain of being misunderstood, and the choice to pursue gr…
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What Does It Actually Mean To Be Focused? (2149)
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15:55In this fun and fiery episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros reveal how focus fuels your identity, momentum, and long-term success. You’ll hear Alan’s “success loop” that connects what you listen to with how you think, act, and ultimately grow. They get real about the cost of distractions, the power of consistency, …
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Life Is JUST A Series Of Problems To Solve (2148)
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20:42What if life isn’t about avoiding problems but solving the right ones? In today's episode, Kevin and Alan compare personal growth to leveling up in a video game. They share how identifying your biggest constraint, whether it’s sleep, money, or relationships, can unlock your next level. From relationship coaching breakthroughs to hard lessons learne…
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True strength whispers, ego shouts. In this reflective and powerful episode, Kevin and Alan unpack what makes someone truly confident versus someone who is arrogantly inflated. They reflect on personal moments, past podcast appearances, and how experience changes the way we see ourselves and others. You’ll hear how confidence without competence can…
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What if “work-life balance” was the wrong question? In this electrifying episode of Second Life Leader, Doug Utberg sits down with executive coach and former Fortune 500 insider Lindsay Barnett to dismantle the productivity cult and offer something radically more powerful: work-life harmony. This isn’t another burnout sob story. It’s a tactical ref…
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In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros break goal setting down to its most practical and powerful form. They share a simple four-step framework that can help you get real traction without overwhelm. You’ll also learn the difference between process and results goals, how to reverse-engineer big dreams like…
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Are your goals actually working for you, or just taking up space on your to-do list? In this episode, Kevin interviews Alan about what most people get wrong about goal setting and how to fix it. They break down the difference between goals that ignite action and ones that quietly fade away, why time perspective matters more than you think, and how …
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What’s The Difference Between Confidence And Arrogance (2144)
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13:51Where confidence stands and ego fades, truth reveals in quiet shades. In today’s episode, Kevin and Alan peel back the layers on how confidence and arrogance can look surprisingly similar and why it’s so tricky to tell them apart. They share real moments from their podcast journey, personal growth reflections, and how their personalities shifted as…
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In this real and refreshing episode of Next Level University, Kevin opens up about the surprising letdown he felt after reaching his weight loss target and why not setting a new goal left him drifting. Alan breaks down how meaningful, aligned goals create momentum and why “necessity” often matters more than motivation. This episode will help you re…
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Core Wounds and Hidden Rules with Kevin Palmieri
17:57
17:57
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17:57What if your greatest limitation isn't a skill gap—but a silent script you're still obeying? In this episode of Second Life Leader, I’m joined by Kevin Palmieri, host of Next Level University, for a direct, unsanitized conversation about core wounds, hidden rules, and the unspoken patterns that govern performance—at work, in leadership, and in life…
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Is showing up the secret to success? In today’s episode, Kevin and Alan share the truth behind their 2,100+ episode journey and why consistency, not perfection, is what moves the needle. From dragging yourself to the gym on low-energy days to making peace with mistakes in business and coaching, they reveal how progress is built one imperfect step a…
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THIS Habit Is WAY MORE Powerful Than You’d Think (2141)
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20:38
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20:38Look back, learn fast, grow forward. In this episode, Kevin and Alan reveal one surprisingly simple habit that can transform how you measure growth. From Facebook memories to old voice notes, they show how reflecting on who you were can realign who you're becoming. With personal stories, honest moments, and a few laughs, this episode reminds listen…
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How Quickly Do You Go From Pain To Decision? (2140)
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27:13In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros share the story of a client who quit gaming mid-call, proving real change can happen fast. They talk about using pain as a catalyst, cutting distractions, and why the right support system speeds up success. A quick hit of truth and motivation for anyone ready to leve…
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Think Fast and Work Smart with Andrew Davies
22:23
22:23
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22:23🎙️ Think Fast. Work Smart. Improv Your Way Through the Corporate Jungle. What if the key to smarter, faster, more adaptive leadership wasn’t another MBA… but improv? In this episode of Second Life Leader, I sit down with Andrew Davies, improv coach and founder of Artly Working, to unpack the unexpected power of improvisation inside the office jungl…
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Intentional Overwhelm ISN’T A Bad Thing (2139)
22:39
22:39
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22:39Feeling stretched thin chasing your dreams? In this episode, Kevin and Alan flip the script on overwhelm and reveal why it can be a powerful sign of growth. They share real stories from their journey, tight deadlines, long days, and high-pressure choices, and explain how intentional overwhelm, when aligned with purpose, fuels progress. Whether you'…
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Where interest grows, your freedom goes. In today’s honest and eye-opening episode, Kevin and Alan reveal how minimum payments, high interest, and false financial “safety” keep you stuck. Real stories, smart tips, money mindset, upgraded. Tune in and take control. Learn more about: 👥Join our Facebook community “Next Level Nation” - https://www.face…
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The 'Playsheet' for Business with Brian Hurtak
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30:07
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30:07When life overloads you with noise, you don’t need more information—you need a play sheet. In this episode of Second Life Leader, Doug Utberg sits down with Brian Hurtak, corporate strategist and author of The Play Sheet, to explore how football coaches manage complexity—and how you can do the same in your career, relationships, or personal reinven…
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1 Thing You NEED To Know About Embarrassment (2137)
19:24
19:24
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19:24In this episode of Next Level University, Kevin tells a hilarious story from a recent golf trip that turned into a valuable lesson about embarrassment. He and Alan share honest thoughts on why these moments sting and how they can help us grow. If you’ve ever felt out of place or judged, you’ll connect with this one. Tune in for some laughs, real ta…
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Your Standards Matter More Than Anyone Else’s (2136)
22:40
22:40
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22:40Are your standards helping you grow or keeping you stuck? In today’s honest and unexpected episode, Kevin shares stories from a recent golf trip where he realized how easy it is to accept support that keeps you comfortable but not challenged. He and Alan talk about the difference between encouragement and enabling, and why your own expectations sho…
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The #1 Lesson From 5 Years Of Coaching Couples (2135)
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13:13
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13:13What you ignore now could cost you later. In this episode, Kevin and Alan break down what truly makes or breaks a relationship. Drawing from years of coaching experience, they share honest stories, practical advice, and a message that might just change the way you see your partnership. It’s real, it’s relatable, and it’s worth the listen. Learn mor…
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The Rise of AI Gatekeepers in Small Business with Ken Cox
32:28
32:28
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32:28In this episode, Doug speaks with Ken Cox about how AI can be deployed in small businesses to generate tremendous value. One of the biggest things most small businesses can do to increase their revenue is to ensure the phones are always answered. However, this is frequently difficult since business owners must choose between operating their busines…
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How To Make The Most Optimal Decision (2134)
17:57
17:57
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17:57In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros talk about the idea of making optimal decisions and how having clear goals changes everything. From taxes to nachos to ChatGPT, they share real-life examples and personal stories that show how better choices come from learning, reflecting, and aiming for what matters…
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We’re All Afraid Of Both Success AND Failure (2133)
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20:53
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20:53Are you holding back because of what success might cost you? In this episode, Kevin and Alan open up about the hidden fears that come with both failure and success. From judgment and rejection to online hate and emotional resilience, they unpack what keeps people stuck and how to move through it with confidence. Whether you're just starting or buil…
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Growth is lonely, but settling costs even more. In today’s powerful follow-up on the “Five Buckets of Growth”, Kevin and Alan open up about the emotional, relational, and mental shifts that come with leveling up. From letting go of past friendships to outgrowing mentors, they share the tough truths most people don’t talk about. You’ll learn why sta…
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In this episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros break down the Five Buckets of Growth, a simple yet powerful way to assess who’s in your life and how they impact your goals. From nostalgic ties to wisdom mentors, they share personal stories and insights about navigating friendship, mentorship, and the loneliness that…
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When You’re In Over Your Head You Learn To Swim (2130)
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27:58
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27:58What if the pressure you’re under is exactly what you need to grow? In today’s powerful episode, Kevin and Alan get real about what it feels like to be thrown into situations you're not ready for and how that pressure can create the foundation for lifelong skills, character, and clarity. From managing impossible jobs to leading teams and facing har…
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External Results Can’t Change Internal Focus (2129)
31:39
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31:39Success fades, principles stay. In this episode, Kevin and Alan reflect on their first-ever $100,000 month and share the surprising emotional reality behind big wins. From humble beginnings to now working with over 100 podcasters and business owners, they explore why success isn’t the destination, it’s a daily decision. You’ll hear the raw, behind-…
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Success Isn’t a Feeling, It’s a Pattern (2128)
15:21
15:21
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15:21In today’s episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros challenge the idea that success is about outcomes and instead show why it’s the pattern that counts. They open up about burnout, chasing PRs, building better systems, and why real growth rarely feels good in the moment. If you’re someone who pushes hard but still que…
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Why You NEED Emotional Intelligence As A High Performer… (2127)
15:20
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15:20Can you be smart and still fail in relationships, leadership, or life? In this episode, Kevin and Alan unpack why emotional intelligence (EQ) is just as critical as IQ, especially for high performers. Through personal stories, sharp insights, and a few laughs, they explore what EQ really means, how it shows up in daily life, and why it’s often the …
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Four steps. One path to a life that truly fits. In this episode, Kevin and Alan unravel the Four A’s of Growth: Awareness, acceptance, action, and alignment. These aren’t just milestones in the rearview mirror; they’re the rhythm of lasting transformation. Kevin recalls the moment he realized success without purpose is empty. Alan opens his heart a…
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It’s Not That You Don’t Have Enough Time… (2125)
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20:46In today’s straight-shooting episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros challenge the idea that there’s never enough time. With real talk, personal stories, and eye-opening stats, they reveal how our time gets eaten up by low-priority habits and how to take back control. You’ll learn how to spot time-wasters, shift your…
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You Will Be Ahead Of 99% Of People If You Track These 3 Things (2124)
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21:17Are you tracking the right things to get ahead? In this episode, Kevin and Alan reveal three simple things you can track daily to stay focused, feel more in control, and see real results in your life. If you're overwhelmed by too much advice or not sure what actually works, this conversation brings it back to basics. Learn why tracking can help you…
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Convenience feels easy until you see the price it quietly charges your future. In today’s real and relatable episode, Kevin and Alan break down the hidden costs of convenience, from food delivery fees to the myth of passive income. They share how small decisions can have big financial consequences and why shifting from a consumer mindset to an inve…
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In this episode, Doug speaks with Kamran Loghman about how the ‘Warriors Mindset’ from eastern philosophy can be brought into the work and lives of people in the West. In a world that worships comfort, distraction, and cheap dopamine, we stand for something ancient. This isn’t your typical pep-talk on grit. It’s a deep dive into the timeless warrio…
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