Hacks & Hobbies

Welcome back, hobby hackers! In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of content creation and emotional resilience with the incredible Jayna Swan. If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent with your content, felt overwhelmed by life’s chaos, or wondered how to balance your passion with family and business, this episode is for you. Jayna shares powerful insights on why understanding your “why” is the foundation for success, and reveals her unique frameworks for harnessing both masculine and feminine energies in your creative process. You’ll learn how to set boundaries when working from home, create systems that support your flow, and discover simple, actionable steps to overcome overwhelm and get inspired again. Plus, we wrap things up with a fun survival challenge for content creators! So grab your headphones, get ready to take notes, and let’s hack our way to more joyful, consistent creation. Let’s get started!Our Guesthttps://www.jaynaswan.comhttps://www.instagram.com/jayna.swanhttps://www.hea

Welcome back to Hobby Hackers! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today’s episode is all about turning life’s toughest challenges into powerful lessons for growth. Our guest is Jana Swan—founder of HER Embodiment Retreats, speaker, facilitator, and host of the Millennials Guide to Healthy Emotional Regulation in Life and Business. Jana’s journey through physical and emotional pain, including overcoming years of health struggles and personal adversity, has inspired her mission to empower women and help others master emotional regulation.In this episode, Jana shares how understanding and channeling our emotions can transform not just our personal lives, but our businesses too. We’ll explore the real impact of emotions in decision-making, the power of movement for mental health, and practical tips for staying present and resilient. Whether you’re facing chaos or just want to thrive in business and life, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive in!Where to reach Our Guesthttps://

Welcome to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we’re diving deep into the world of government contracting with the incredible Melinda Colon. If you’ve ever wondered how to land lucrative government contracts or scale your business with stable, long-term revenue, this episode is for you. Melinda shares her proven GovCon sales strategy, breaking down the five essential steps to winning contracts—even if you’re just starting out. We’ll talk about mindset, preparation, targeting the right agencies, and how to turn every opportunity—win or lose—into a stepping stone for growth. Plus, Melinda reveals how government contracts can boost your authority and help you serve your clients better. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and the motivation to take your business to the next level. So grab your notebook, get ready to be inspired, and let’s jump in!Where to reach Our Guesthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/melinda-co

Welcome to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! If you’ve ever wondered how to secure major government contracts and scale your business, you’re in for a treat. Today’s guest, Melinda Colon, is a powerhouse in business strategy and government contracting, with over two decades of experience and a track record of helping clients generate an astonishing $4.4 billion in new business. Melinda is a sought-after speaker, podcast host, and creator of the GovCon Sales Strategy program, dedicated to helping entrepreneurs unlock life-changing government opportunities. In this episode, Melinda shares her journey from corporate proposal manager to industry leader, reveals the biggest misconceptions about government contracts, and explains why these opportunities aren’t just for big corporations. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, you’ll discover practical strategies to win contracts and build generational wealth. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation that could change the trajectory of your

Welcome back to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we’re diving deep into transformation, discipline, and the power of community with our returning guest, Austin Page. In this episode, Austin shares his journey from in-person to online coaching, revealing the unique “Gym Flow” method that’s helping people break through barriers and achieve real, lasting change. We’ll explore why imperfect action beats waiting for the perfect moment, how to build confidence through small daily wins, and the importance of creating your own personal brand and identity. Austin opens up about the mental shifts needed for self-mastery, the value of surrounding yourself with the right people, and practical steps anyone can take to start their fitness and personal growth journey. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration. So get ready to be motivated, take control, and become the person you want to be!Where to rea

Welcome back to Hacks and Hobbies! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today’s episode is one you won’t want to miss. We’re joined by Austin Page, founder of Gym Flow Coaching—a man who turned personal adversity into a mission of empowerment. After surviving a life-altering accident, Austin rebuilt his life from the ground up, mastering the habits, discipline, and mindset that now fuel his coaching business. In this episode, Austin shares his raw and inspiring story, the pivotal moments that forced him to change, and the powerful lessons he learned along the way. We’ll dive into how hitting rock bottom can spark transformation, the importance of building discipline, and why living life hard is more than just a motto—it’s a way to unlock your true potential. And stay tuned, because in our next episode, Austin will reveal the core principles and routines behind Gym Flow Coaching to help you transform your own life. Let’s get started!Where to reach Our Guesthttps://gymflocoaching.com/https://www.instagram.com/apage

Welcome to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we’re diving deep into the world of digital marketing for small businesses with our special guest, James Hipkin. James brings a wealth of experience from working with major brands like Apple and Visa, and now he’s on a mission to empower small business owners to drive real growth. In this episode, we uncover the biggest mistakes businesses make in digital marketing, why having a clear strategy is essential, and how to use measurement and data to make smarter decisions. James also shares how AI-powered tools can help you truly understand your customers, and why your website should be the hub of all your marketing efforts. Plus, we explore the power of authentic storytelling and practical, cost-effective tools you can use right now. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your marketing game, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss. Let’s get started!Where to reach Our GuestFace

Welcome to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! Today, we’re joined by James Hipkin, a marketing veteran with over 40 years of experience helping businesses connect meaningfully with their customers. From leading global initiatives for brands like Apple, Visa, and Toyota, to empowering small and medium-sized businesses with AI-driven marketing tools and website solutions, James brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. In this episode, you’ll hear how James transitioned from the world of rock and roll to ROI, the lessons he learned working with some of the world’s biggest brands, and how those principles can help your business thrive. We’ll dive into the importance of owning your digital assets, building customer loyalty, and crafting the right message for the right audience at the right time. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, get ready for actionable insights and inspiring stories that will help you master digital marketing. Let’s get started!Where to reach Our GuestFacebook: https://www

Welcome back to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we’re diving into the world of podcasting—not just as a platform for sharing stories, but as a powerful networking gold mine. Joining us is Mark Jake Carter, a veteran interviewer with over 25 years of experience and more than 100 podcast episodes under his belt. Mark’s passion lies in uncovering actionable insights for personal and professional growth, and today he’s sharing his secrets on how you can leverage podcasting to build meaningful connections and grow your network. From booking high-profile guests to structuring interviews that create lasting relationships, Mark reveals the strategies that have helped him—and can help you—turn your podcast into a networking superpower. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just getting started, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and inspiration to help you take your podcast and your network to the next level. Let’s jump in!Where to reach Our Guesthttps://www.markjc

Welcome back to another episode of Hacks and Hobbies! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we’re joined by the inspiring Kay Wilkes, creator of the “Pondering Thoughts” podcast—a hub for curious minds. In this episode, Kay shares her journey to rediscovering her passion, launching her podcast, and the secrets behind crafting conversations that truly stand out. We dive into her unique approach to making guests feel comfortable, the importance of curiosity, and how she keeps her content thought-provoking yet accessible for all ages. Plus, Kay reveals her favorite TV shows, childhood dreams, and even what board game best represents her personality! Whether you’re a podcaster, a fan of great conversations, or just looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt stories. So get ready to be curious, be inspired, and join us as we explore the art of meaningful content with Kay Wilkes. Let’s jump in!Where to reach Our Guesthttps://www.instagram.com/ponderingthoughtspodcast/3 Hacks

Welcome to Hacks and Hobbies, where passion meets purpose and ordinary people share extraordinary stories. I'm your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we're diving into a journey of rediscovery and courage.Meet Kay Wilkes - a storyteller who refused to let her dreams collect dust. From teenage TV co-host to teacher, and now the passionate host of Pondering Thoughts Podcast, Kay's story is a testament to the power of never giving up on your true calling.We'll explore her winding path through television, radio, and media, uncovering the moments of doubt, the leap of faith, and the incredible community that helped her reignite her creative spark. Whether you're feeling stuck, dreaming of a different path, or simply need a dose of inspiration, Kay's story will remind you that it's never too late to pursue what sets your soul on fire.So buckle up, get ready to be inspired, and let's dive into Kay Wilkes' remarkable journey of passion, persistence, and podcasting.Where to reach Our Guesthttps://www.instagram.com/ponderi

What if your greatest leverage isn't talent, timing, or capital, but the way you choose to show up for others? What if real scale is less about follower counts and more about meaningful, sustainable rituals that energize you year after year?In today's episode, we're diving deep into the power of service, systems, and purpose. I've spoken with five incredible experts who've discovered that true impact comes from stepping off the hero pedestal and empowering those around you.From a communication scientist who can distill complex ideas into sticky sentences, to a podcasting veteran who publishes daily without burnout, to an AI technologist engineering kindness into apps - they all landed on the same profound insight: service creates significance, systems create scale, and purpose supplies the fuel.We'll explore three transformative questions that can reshape how you approach your work, your relationships, and your mission. Get ready to challenge your assumptions, unlock new perspectives,

Welcome back to Hacks and Hobbies, where we explore extraordinary stories of innovation and purpose. Today, we're diving deep with Mike Kim, a visionary who's transforming the way we think about kindness and technology.Mike isn't just creating another app - he's building a movement. Imagine a digital platform that gamifies kindness, rewards compassion, and connects people in meaningful ways. His company, Some Neat Place, is reimagining how technology can bring out the best in humanity.From his early dreams of being a marine biologist to developing a groundbreaking concept that's part Pokemon Go, part Boy Scouts for adults, Mike's journey is anything but ordinary. We'll explore how augmented reality, intentional design, and a genuine passion for human connection can create real-world impact.Get ready to be inspired as we uncover how one person's vision can spark a global movement of kindness. This isn't just a tech story - it's a human story about transformation, empathy

Welcome to Hacks and Hobbies, where we dive deep into the inspiring stories of individuals who transform personal challenges into powerful missions. Today, we're exploring a remarkable journey of resilience, technology, and kindness with Mike Kim, founder of Some Need Place.Mike's story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to turn complex trauma into a force for good. From experiencing childhood bullying and family struggles to navigating personal losses, including his mother's recent passing, Mike has channeled his pain into a profound mission of spreading kindness in the digital age.Through his work with Some Need Place and Smobbler, a Metaverse for good company, Mike is pioneering innovative ways to use technology as a catalyst for human connection. He's building platforms that not only share powerful stories but also create real-world impact, proving that kindness can be both a personal healing journey and a transformative social movement.Get ready to be inspired by Mike Kim's incredible story of

Hey there, entrepreneurs and dreamers! Welcome to another explosive episode of Hacks & Hobbies. I'm your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we're diving into a game-changing approach that's going to blow your mind – how to build profitable online businesses WITHOUT showing your face.Imagine creating a thriving business where you don't have to be the star, where AI does the heavy lifting, and where your passion can translate into real income. Sounds impossible? Not anymore.My guest today is Jonny Andrews, a serial entrepreneur who's helped over 177,000 people launch businesses and supported 18,000 authors in building successful careers. In 2011, he pioneered a faceless newsletter business framework that continues to generate income today.In the next 45 minutes, Jonny will reveal his five-part system for turning your ideas into a profitable online business in just 24 hours. Whether you're camera-shy, want to protect your privacy, or just prefer working behind the scenes, this episode is your blueprint to entrepr

Welcome to Hacks and Hobbies, where we dive deep into inspiring stories and practical wisdom. I'm your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we're continuing our powerful conversation with Jenn Brazelton, a birth and postpartum doula who's passionate about supporting new parents through one of life's most transformative experiences.In this episode, we're breaking down the postpartum journey - those challenging, beautiful, and sometimes overwhelming first months after welcoming a new baby. Jenn brings her expertise and personal experience to share actionable advice on hormonal balance, communication with your partner, creating a support network, and most importantly, how to care for yourself while caring for a newborn.Whether you're an expecting parent, a new mom or dad, or someone who wants to support loved ones through this incredible life transition, this episode is packed with compassionate insights that will help you thrive, not just survive, in the postpartum stage.So grab a cup of coffee, find a quiet moment, a

Welcome to Hacks and Hobbies, where we explore life's transformative experiences through powerful personal stories. Today, we're diving into one of the most profound journeys a human can undertake - childbirth and postpartum care.Our guest is Jen Brazelton, a remarkable woman who wears many hats: Army veteran, dedicated doula, and passionate advocate for families. Jen doesn't just support mothers during birth - she helps them transform this incredible experience from a moment of potential fear into a powerful, empowering journey of love and connection.Through her own personal experiences and years of professional work, Jen reveals how birth is so much more than a physical event. It's a holistic experience that encompasses the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of bringing new life into the world.In this episode, we'll explore how families can cultivate compassion, build stronger relationships, and approach childbirth with confidence and grace. Whether you're an expecting parent, a supportiv

Welcome to Hacks and Hobbies, where passion meets purpose and your voice makes an impact! Today, we're diving deep into the world of podcasting with a true pioneer - Mark Ronick, the visionary behind the Empowered Podcasting Conference.Imagine a space where creators aren't just fed information, but are genuinely empowered to take action. That's exactly what Mark has created. After 20 years in podcasting, he realized traditional conferences were missing something crucial - a sense of true community and actionable inspiration.In this episode, we'll explore Mark's journey from podcast production veteran to conference founder, uncover the magic of AI in content creation, and learn how to overcome the biggest mental barriers that stop creators from hitting that record button.Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just dreaming of starting your show, this conversation will give you the permission and tools to turn your podcast vision into reality.Get ready for an inspiring ride on Hacks and Hobbies!Where to reach O

Hey podcast lovers! Today, we're diving deep into the world of podcasting with a true pioneer who's been in the game for over two decades. Meet Marc Ronick - founder of Ironic Media, co-founder of Next Gen Podcaster, and the creative mind behind the Empowered Podcasting Conference.Marc isn't just another podcaster. He's a storyteller, a community builder, and someone who's watched the podcasting landscape transform from the early days of dial-up internet to today's AI-powered content creation. From hosting morning radio shows to running the popular Podcasting Morning Chat, Marc has seen it all.In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on his incredible journey. We'll explore how passion, authenticity, and connection have been the driving forces behind his success. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just thinking about starting your first show, Marc's insights will inspire and motivate you.So buckle up and get ready for an epic conversation that's going to change how you think about podcasting foreve

Welcome back to Hacks and Hobbies, where we dive deep into the art of communication and personal growth. In our last episode, we explored why resonance trumps persuasion. Today, we're getting practical – uncovering the strategies that transform ordinary communication into something truly extraordinary.I'm your host, Junaid Ahmed, and I'm thrilled to welcome back Dr. Michael Gerharz, a communication expert who's about to reveal how you can make your message not just heard, but felt. We'll explore how to cut through the noise, connect with your audience, and communicate in a way that doesn't just inform, but inspires.From Apple's groundbreaking marketing to the power of listening, we'll break down the techniques that turn ordinary speakers into compelling storytellers. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or simply someone who wants to communicate with more impact, this episode is your blueprint for communication that resonates.Get ready to transform the way you speak, connect, and influence. Let's dive in!Wh