Right About Now - Legendary Business Advice
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<p><em>The #1 Marketing & Business Show on Apple Podcasts</em></p> <p>Welcome to <strong>Right About Now</strong>, where <strong>real American business</strong> gets a megaphone—and the B.S. gets the boot.</p> <p>Hosted by marketing disrupter <strong>Ryan Alford, </strong>entrepreneur, founder, and the guy brands call when they want attention, this show slices through the noise with <strong>uncensored insights</strong>, <strong>hard-earned wisdom</strong>, and <strong>straight-up truths</strong> from the frontlines of business.</p> <p>Every week, you’ll get two punchy Guest episodes where Ryan talks with legendary business founders, trending authors, and industry titans about what it takes to build a business and some of the most cutting edge tools and services available. </p> <p>Forget the LinkedIn fluff. This is for doers, builders, and dreamers who want results, not recycled soundbites.</p> <p><strong>Business the way it really works. Real people. Real wins. Real screw-ups.</strong></p> <p>No MBA required. Just guts, hustle, and a sense of humor.</p> <p><strong>Subscribe, listen, and get Right About Now.</strong></p> <p>Because business isn’t broken—it’s just been boring & stale. Until now.</p>
Recent Episodes
20 episodesResilience, Reputation, and Real Lessons in Entrepreneurship with Anik Singal
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about growth — it’s about what holds when everything is tested. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford speaks with entrepreneur and author Anik Singal about one of the most challenging periods of his career: navigating an extended FTC investigation that forced him to shut down operations just weeks before a major company acquisition. Anik walks through: What an FTC investigation is really like Why compliance and substantiation are critical at scale The dangers of building fast without the right guardrails How reputation and brand can protect you in the worst moments Turning professional setbacks into purpose and clarity This conversation is a powerful reminder that success isn’t defined by how fast you grow — but by how well you’re prepared when things go wrong. Host & Guest Info Ryan Alford Host, Right About Now Website: https://ryanisright.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford Anik Singal Entrepreneur & Author Website: https://dontsaythat.com Compliance Software: https://complylly.com
Why Asking for the Sale Is the Worst Move You Can Make | Paul Ross
Most sales training focuses on tactics. Paul Ross focuses on the mind making the decision. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford speaks with Paul Ross — a former founder of the global pickup and seduction community turned elite subconscious sales trainer for Fortune 500 teams. Paul shares why: People don’t trust themselves to make buying decisions Logic doesn’t close deals — emotion does Focus is the currency of persuasion Asking for the order actually lowers close rates Language creates leadership and compliance Prospects want to be led, even if they say they don’t This conversation reframes sales as influence, leadership, and subconscious trust — not scripts or pressure. Sponsors Are you interested in effortlessly growing your bitcoin portfolio? ↳Gemini Crypto – Gemini.com/card Need help building a website? Wix has got you covered! ↳Go to wix.com/harmony. That’s wix.com/harmony. To start your website today! Host & Guest Info Ryan Alford Host, Right About Now Website: https://ryanisright.com Paul Ross Subconscious Sales Trainer Website: https://www.sellwithsuggestion.com/rightaboutnow
The Reality of Building Wealth in Your 20s and 30s with Alex Morton
Alex Morton has seen every side of success — early wins, massive income, public stages, and personal collapse. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford talks with Alex Morton about the real journey from a broke college kid to multimillionaire, and why the moments no one sees matter more than the highlights. Alex opens up about: Making his first million at 24 — and what it didn’t fix Losing nearly everything after peak success Why network marketing works and why it gets a bad reputation How honesty beats hype in sales and leadership Why confidence and self-image determine outcomes What crypto and financial education really represent How success changes as life evolves This episode is raw, reflective, and grounded — a reminder that the journey is never linear. Host & Guest Info Ryan Alford Host, Right About Now Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford Website: https://ryanisright.com Alex Morton Speaker, Author, Entrepreneur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmortonmindset YouTube: Alex Morton Mindset
Authenticity Is Authority: How to Build Real Influence with Jen Gottieb
What happens when the brand you build isn’t actually you? In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Jen Gottlieb, co-founder of Super Connector Media and one of Maxim Magazine’s Top Entrepreneurs, to explore the cost of pretending — and the power of authenticity. Jen opens up about her early career on VH1, how playing a character led her to lose alignment with herself, and why that experience shaped her approach to business, PR, and personal branding today. This conversation covers: Why authenticity is the fastest path to authority How rejection builds resilience and confidence The difference between rented credibility and owned credibility Jen’s CIA framework: Credibility, Influence, Authority Why being visible is a responsibility if you want to help people How to reframe “no” into momentum Why you should stop waiting for permission and choose yourself If you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or business leader struggling with visibility, confidence, or imposter syndrome — this episode is a must-listen. Sponsors Are you interested in effortlessly growing your bitcoin portfolio? ↳Gemini Crypto – https://www.gemini.com/card?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=right_about_now&utm_content=host_read&_bhlid=160d7f4fc923d552d3acfd8e1b631d57799c5196 Connect with the Host & Guest Ryan Alford Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford Website: https://ryanisright.com Jen Gottlieb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_gottlieb Company: https://superconnectormedia.com Podcast + Programs: Link in her Instagram bio If this episode resonated with you: Subscribe to Right About Now Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it Follow Ryan and Jen for daily insights on branding, visibility, and confidence
Agentic AI Is Here: How ATOMS Turns Ideas into Revenue with Ethan Ouyang
AI is no longer just a tool — it’s becoming a business operator. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford talks with Ethan Ouyang, Head of U.S. Operations at DeepWisdom, about the rise of agentic AI and how their platform Atoms enables anyone to build revenue-ready products without writing code or managing teams. Ethan explains how Atoms differs from traditional AI tools by running a full autonomous decision loop — from market research and planning to execution, launch, and SEO-driven monetization. The discussion covers real-world use cases including DTC brands, SaaS products, internal tools, and small-business systems. Topics Covered: What agentic AI actually means Why most AI tools stop at tasks — and Atoms doesn’t How AI coordinates multiple agents autonomously Building MVPs without engineering teams Human judgment vs AI execution Cost efficiency through open-source models Who this technology is really for This episode breaks down why the barrier to building businesses has fundamentally changed — and what that means for founders willing to adapt. Sponsors Are you interested in effortlessly growing your bitcoin portfolio? ↳Gemini Crypto – https://www.gemini.com/card?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=right_about_now&utm_content=host_read&_bhlid=160d7f4fc923d552d3acfd8e1b631d57799c5196 🔗 Connect with Host & Guest 🎙️ Host Ryan Alford Website & full episodes: https://ryanisright.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanalford 👤 Guest Ethan Ouyang Platform: https://atoms.dev Company: https://deepwisdom.ai X (Twitter): https://x.com/atoms_dev
From Broke at 13 to $100M+: Josh Snow on Discipline, Luck, and Building a Legacy
Entrepreneurship isn’t about shortcuts — it’s about staying disciplined long enough to create your own luck. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Josh Snow, founder and CEO of Snow, for a raw and wide-ranging conversation on adversity, discipline, and what it really takes to build a lasting business. Josh shares how starting his first business at 13 out of financial necessity shaped his mindset, why he bootstrapped Snow into a global brand with over $100M in sales without pulling money out early, and how discipline early in life leads to freedom later. The conversation also explores reinvention, legacy, and why most people quit right before things start working. This episode is for builders who are playing the long game. Topics Covered Why adversity exists at every level of success Burning the boats and reinvesting in yourself Discipline vs. regret — and why discipline always wins How luck is created through preparation Producing vs. consuming in the age of distraction Reinventing yourself without asking permission Transitioning from survival mode to legacy mode Sponsors Are you interested in effortlessly growing your bitcoin portfolio? ↳Gemini Crypto – gemini.com/card https://gemini.com/card?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=right_about_now&utm_content=host_read Connect & Learn More 🎧 Follow the Show & Host Ryan Alford Website & full episodes: https://ryanisright.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanalford 👤 Follow the Guest Josh Snow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshsnow Snow: https://www.instagram.com/snow Affiliate Marketing: https://affiliatemarketing.com If this episode challenged how you think about discipline, success, and legacy: Subscribe to Right About Now Leave a review Share this episode with someone who’s building for the long term Your support helps us keep bringing real conversations to builders everywhere.
How to Build a Website That Actually Converts With Sam Dunning
In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford welcomes Sam Dunning, founder of Breaking B2B, for a practical conversation about websites, SEO, and why most companies unknowingly lose leads every day. Sam explains how ego-driven design choices sabotage conversions — from overusing buzzwords to prioritizing aesthetics over buyer clarity. He shares why websites should be treated like full-time salespeople and how even referral-based businesses miss opportunities when their site doesn’t communicate clearly. The episode explores Sam’s journey from retail into digital marketing, lessons learned from early mistakes, and how he now helps B2B brands create sites that drive real results. Ryan and Sam also discuss customer research, homepage fundamentals, proof-based messaging, and how simple changes can dramatically improve inbound leads. This is a must-listen for founders, marketers, and operators who want their website to work harder for their business. Key Takeaways Websites should be built for buyers, not founders Proof converts better than polished language Customer interviews improve messaging fast Clear next steps drive action Bad websites lose invisible revenue 📣 Connect with Ryan & Sam 🎙 Right About Now Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RightAboutNowwithRyanAlford 🌐 Ryan Alford: https://ryanisright.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ryanalford 🚀 Sam Dunning / Breaking B2B: Website: https://breakingb2b.com LinkedIn: Search “Sam Dunning” Podcast: Breaking B2B Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone rebuilding their website. Sponsors Are you interested in effortlessly growing your bitcoin portfolio? ↳Gemini Crypto – Gemini.com/card
Tenacity Over Fear: How Scott Scovill Turned Doubt Into a Dream Career
What happens when you stop letting fear decide your future? In this episode of Right About Now, host Ryan Alford sits down with entrepreneur, creative pioneer, and author Scott Scovill for a powerful conversation about fear, failure, and what it really takes to pursue your dreams. Scott opens up about graduating near the bottom of his class, flunking out of college, and being diagnosed with a deep fear of failure — a fear that nearly kept him stuck forever. Everything changed the night he randomly met the touring crew for U2, attended their concert, and realized he’d found the life he wanted — but only if he was willing to try. That moment sparked what Scott now calls tenacity — the relentless pursuit of what matters most. Today, Scott has built multiple companies, led massive live productions for world-class artists, and written a deeply personal book, Tenacious: The Art of Relentlessly Pursuing Your Wildest Dreams, sharing the lessons he learned along the way. In this episode, Scott and Ryan dive into: Why fear of failure keeps most people stuck How a single moment can redefine your entire future Why execution matters more than motivation The power of simply showing up How storytelling beats preachy self-help Turning setbacks into momentum Learning that failure hurts far less than imagined If you’re building a business, chasing a creative dream, or just trying to become a better version of yourself — this conversation will challenge you to stop waiting and start moving. 📣 Connect with Ryan & Scott 🎙 Right About Now Podcast: https://ryanisright.com 📸 Ryan Alford: Instagram → https://instagram.com/ryanalford 📘 Scott Scovill: Website → https://scottscovill.com 📚 Tenacious: The Art of Relentlessly Pursuing Your Wildest Dreams Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and major retailers. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show.
How Brett Berish Built Billion-Dollar Spirit Brands by Ignoring Industry Rules | Sovereign Brands
Building a real brand isn’t about playing it safe — it’s about testing, failing, learning, and trusting your instincts. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Brett Berish, CEO of Sovereign Brands, to unpack how he built global spirits brands like Bumbu, Deacon Whiskey, Bel-Air Rosé, and McQueen Gin by doing the opposite of what the industry expected. Brett explains why he stopped trying to compete with giants like Bacardi or Jack Daniels and instead leaned into authenticity, taste-first product development, and bold packaging. He compares building businesses to comedians refining jokes — constantly reacting to audiences, tweaking the approach, and evolving until something truly lands From navigating America’s rigid three-tier alcohol system to building brands in over 80 countries, Brett shares hard-earned lessons about flexibility, leadership, and believing in products before the market catches up. This episode covers: • Why no one believed in Brett’s brands at launch • How taste matters more than celebrity endorsements • Why packaging is part of the brand experience • How failure shaped his leadership style • Building teams of self-starters, not followers • Why letting products “breathe” unlocked global growth • Turning personal struggle into purpose If you’re building anything — a company, a product, or a personal brand — this conversation offers a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and trusting what makes you different. Connect with Ryan & Brett 🎙 Right About Now Podcast: https://ryanisright.com 📸 Ryan Alford: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford 🥃 Brett Berish: https://www.instagram.com/brettbarishceo 🌐 Sovereign Brands: https://sovereignbrands.com Explore Brett’s brands: Bumbu, Deacon Whiskey, Bel-Air Rosé, McQueen Gin, Violet Fog, and Vione France. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show.
How Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks Went from Gas Station Restaurant to Multi-Location Franchise | Derrick Hayes
Success rarely looks the way people expect it to — and almost never happens on a straight line. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Derrick Hayes, founder of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks, for a candid conversation about patience, belief, and the discipline required to build something that lasts. Derrick walks through the early days of entrepreneurship, including failed ideas, long nights, and moments where progress wasn’t visible — even when the work was real. Using powerful analogies and lived experience, Derrick explains why many people confuse movement with momentum, hustle with mastery, and ambition with execution. He shares how learning the business of what you’re building is what separates long-term success from endless grinding. Key Takeaways: Why most people quit before the payoff shows up How patience functions as a competitive advantage The danger of “hobby hustling” Why discipline beats motivation every time How real leaders think about scale and responsibility This episode is for anyone who wants more than quick wins — and is willing to play the long game. Keep up With Ryan and Derrick 🌐 Learn more at https://ryanisright.com 🎧 Subscribe to Right About Now on YouTube & podcast platforms 📸 Follow Ryan Alford on social for clips and insights 🍽️ Discover Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks and Derrick Hayes’ journey nationwide If this conversation resonated, share it with someone building something of their own.
You Only Get One Shot: Confidence, Discipline, and Building Real Success with Mara Dorn
Confidence isn’t something you’re born with — it’s something you build. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Mara Dorn, a leader who has helped build billion-dollar sales organizations and mentor hundreds of young professionals. Mara shares the lessons she learned early: you only get one shot, first impressions matter, and how you show up physically affects how you perform mentally. Drawing from decades of experience, she explains why discipline, posture, energy, and personal standards still matter — even in a world driven by convenience, shortcuts, and AI. This isn’t about appearances for appearance’s sake. It’s about understanding how confidence, credibility, and work ethic are deeply connected to results. In this episode, we cover: Why first impressions are psychological, not superficial How posture and presence affect performance The difference between confidence and ego Why discipline outperforms talent The generational shift in work ethic How to build real confidence without pretending to be perfect Why authenticity still requires standards Mara also opens up about anxiety, imperfection, and how embracing flaws — instead of hiding them — can become a competitive advantage. Listen & Watch Full episodes, video, and show updates: 👉 https://ryanisright.com Check out the BILF Podcast: 👉 https://bilfpodcast.com Follow on Socials Ryan Alford Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanalford Mara Dorn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maradorn Website: https://maradorn.com
From Side Hustle to $10K/Month: Inside the Rental Car Business with George Madden and Car Rental Coach
Most people misunderstand the rental car business. They either assume it’s too risky, too time-consuming, or only works if you’re renting luxury vehicles. Others lump it in with online side hustle hype without ever understanding the actual mechanics behind it. In this episode, Ryan talks with George Madden, founder of Car Rental Coach, about what the rental car business really looks like when it’s built intentionally. George didn’t start with supercars or flashy marketing. He built his fleet around cheap, reliable economy cars, focusing on utilization, insurance structure, and cash flow rather than appearances. Throughout the conversation, George explains: Why economy cars consistently generate better returns than luxury rentals How small fleets can produce steady monthly income What people get wrong about insurance and liability How depreciation and write-offs change the math entirely How much time it actually takes to operate a small fleet Why this business works as both a side hustle and a primary income When scaling makes sense—and when it doesn’t The answers are practical, grounded, and based on real experience—not theory. This episode is for anyone who wants to understand: How small businesses quietly generate cash flow Why “boring” assets often outperform exciting ones What a realistic, system-driven side business actually looks like No hype.No shortcuts. Just a clear look at a business most people don’t fully understand—but probably should.
Why Personal Branding Should Come AFTER You Build a Real Business | Marian Esanu
Most people rush into building a personal brand — and end up stuck with views, likes, and no real business to show for it. In this episode, Marian Esanu breaks down why personal branding should come after you’ve built something real, not before. From fake authority and imposter syndrome to why most creators can’t convert attention into sales, this conversation challenges the way entrepreneurs think about visibility, credibility, and long-term value. If you’ve ever felt pressure to “build your brand” before you’re ready — this episode will change how you approach it. Key Topics Covered • Why starting a personal brand too early can hurt your credibility •The difference between being an expert vs an enthusiast •Why views and followers don’t matter if you can’t convert them into revenue •How real businesses create authentic, scalable personal brands •The danger of building a brand that can’t be sold or exited •How to research competitors instead of reinventing the wheel •Why paid traffic + organic content beats chasing virality •Turning content into an actual business asset Who This Episode Is For Entrepreneurs building (or thinking about building) a personal brand Creators struggling to monetize their audience Business owners tired of “fake guru” branding advice Anyone who wants authority without pretending to be an expert Subscribe to Right About Now! Keep listening and subscribe to our newsletter at RyanIsRight.com Follow @ ryanalford on all social media Keep up with Marian Esanu • Personal Branding Ninja • Momentum Podcast
Why the Smartest Brands Don’t Chase Customers Anymore| Jon Davids
Most businesses are obsessed with one question:“How do I spend $1 to make $5?” According to Jon Davids, that mindset is exactly what’s holding brands back. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with the CEO of Influicity and author of Marketing Superpowers to unpack why the future belongs to brands that build movements, not just marketing funnels. John shares how he learned to capture attention before social media existed, why most influencers are broke despite large followings, and how brands can create demand that doesn’t rely on algorithms or ad platforms. In This Episode, We Cover Why paid ads alone are unsustainable long-term The difference between building an audience and building a movement How community connects content to commerce Why “Minimum Viable Concept” beats “Minimum Viable Product” How to own customer demand instead of renting it What brands must do today to stay relevant in the next 10–20 years If you want to stop chasing customers and start attracting them, this conversation will completely change how you think about marketing. 🎧 Listen now and discover your true marketing superpower.
The Brutal Truth About Podcast Growth Nobody Wants to Hear with Tom Webster
Why do most podcasts stall long before they reach real scale? In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford is joined by Tom Webster, one of the most respected voices in podcasting and author of The Audience Is Listening, to unpack the uncomfortable truths behind podcast growth. With nearly 30 years in audio research and media strategy, Tom explains why: Promotion won’t save a show that lacks clarity Editing for flow is the secret weapon of top podcasts Many creators build for themselves — not their audience Asking the wrong listener questions leads to bad decisions Podcasting is far from “on the way down” — and why the data proves it This conversation is a masterclass in podcast strategy, audience psychology, and long-term content thinking. Whether you’re launching a show, stuck at a download ceiling, or building branded content, this episode will help you stop chasing vanity metrics and start building real listener loyalty. 📘 Learn more about Tom’s book: The Audience Is Listening🎙 Explore industry research at Sounds Profitable📲 Subscribe for weekly insights on business, media, and growth
The Riches Are in the Niches: How a Beverly Hills Surgeon Built a Luxury Empire with ZERO ads | Dr. Deepak Dugar
Luxury isn’t accidental—it’s engineered. On this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford is joined by Dr. Deepak Dugar, one of the world’s most respected surgeons and the architect behind one of Beverly Hills’ most exclusive medical brands. Dr. Dugar shares how he built a global reputation by going all-in on a single niche, refusing to compete with mediocrity, and designing a business that prioritizes quality over volume—in clients, hiring, and brand positioning. This conversation goes far beyond medicine. It’s a blueprint for entrepreneurs who want to: Stand out in hyper-competitive markets Build premium brands with demand built in Create exclusivity without paid advertising Hire elite performers and avoid energy vampires You’ll Learn: Why “riches in the niches” is more than a cliché How luxury brands intentionally repel the wrong customers The difference between good revenue and bad revenue Why elite operators pick their competition carefully How to build a brand that attracts the world’s best clients Connect with Dr. Deepak Dugar Instagram: Deepakdugarmd Website: www.Scarlessnose.com 🎧 If you want to build something elite—not average—this episode is a must listen.
How the Rich Use Tax Strategy to Build Long-Term Wealth | Mark J. Kohler
Taxes are the single biggest expense most Americans will ever face—and yet almost no one is taught how they really work. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford is joined by Mark J. Kohler, renowned Main Street tax attorney, to break down how the tax code is designed to reward certain behaviors—and how everyday entrepreneurs can legally take advantage of it. This conversation covers: Why side hustles unlock powerful tax advantages How small business owners can dramatically reduce their effective tax rate The difference between delegating taxes and leading your tax strategy Why depreciation, real estate, and alternative investments matter How wealthy individuals think differently about money and taxes Why the tax code incentivizes entrepreneurship, housing, and investment Mark explains that the tax system isn’t broken—it’s behavior-based. Those who understand the rules use them to build wealth, while everyone else overpays out of fear or ignorance. If you’re a business owner, investor, or building a side hustle, this episode will change how you think about money—and what you keep. Guest:Mark J. Kohler – Tax Attorney & EntrepreneurWebsite: markjkohler.com
From Sports Network to Niche: Josh Pate on Thriving in the World of New Media
Shownotes: The New Media Playbook is HERE! The sports media landscape is changing — and Josh Pate is one of the clearest examples of how new media is winning. In this episode of Right About Now, Josh Pate joins Ryan Alford to break down how he built a dominant college football media brand without relying on legacy networks, hot takes, or manufactured controversy. Josh shares why audience trust matters more than reach, how YouTube and live platforms reshaped sports media, and why creators who own their distribution and intellectual property are positioned to win long term. This conversation explores the intersection of sports, media, and business, offering valuable insight for creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone building a brand in today’s attention economy. In This Episode: Why legacy sports media models are losing relevance How Josh Pate built trust through consistency and honesty The power of niche audiences in sports media Owning your audience vs renting attention Monetizing content through direct relationships What the future of sports media looks like Connect with Josh Pate Josh Pate’s College Football Show on all major platforms X / Twitter: @JoshPateCFB Instagram: Joshpatecfb
Think Like a SHARK: Matt Higgins on Why Playing It Safe always FAILS
What separates people who talk about success from those who actually build it? In this episode of Right About Now, entrepreneur, investor, and Shark Tank personality Matt Higgins explains why burning the boats — eliminating backup plans — is the fastest way to unlock clarity, courage, and exponential growth. Matt shares deeply personal stories about growing up in poverty, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why optimism, fearlessness, and relentless execution define elite performers. This conversation is a masterclass in commitment, belief before proof, and playing the long game when the evidence hasn’t arrived yet. If you’re feeling stuck, hesitant, or waiting for permission — this episode will reset how you think about risk and opportunity. Key Points Introduction & mindset shift The danger of having a Plan B Compounding ambition over time Imposter syndrome & self-belief Optimism as a competitive advantage Playing bold before evidence exists Final advice for builders & leaders Connect with Matt Higgins: Follow Matt Higgins for leadership, investing, and mindset insights Learn more about his work at RSE Ventures Watch Matt on Shark Tank and other business programs
College Football’s Identity Crisis: NIL, Leadership, and Loyalty with Jay Paterno
In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Jay Paterno—former Penn State coach, author, and leadership expert—for a candid conversation about the real impact of NIL on college football. From the rise of pay-to-play collectives to leadership failures, mental health pressures, and the erosion of fan loyalty, Jay breaks down what’s actually happening behind the scenes of today’s game. This isn’t a hot take—it’s a firsthand look at how college football is changing, and why many fans feel the sport they love is slipping away. Topics Covered: Why NIL quickly turned into pay-to-play The lack of leadership from the NCAA How money is changing locker room dynamics Mental health pressure on 18-year-old athletes Why fans are losing emotional connection What Joe Paterno would’ve done differently The future of contracts, transparency, and collective bargaining Why winning—not branding—is the real currency Key Takeaway:College football doesn’t have a talent problem—it has a leadership problem. Guest Bio:Jay Paterno is a former Penn State assistant football coach, leadership strategist, author, and nationally recognized voice on the evolution of college athletics. Jay brings a rare inside perspective on leadership, culture-building, and the business of college sports. Beyond coaching, Jay has served as a Penn State University Trustee, giving him firsthand insight into the intersection of athletics, academics, and institutional leadership. He is also a television analyst and host of Nittany Game Week, airing across more than 400 stations in five states. Today, Jay consults with athletic departments, organizations, and leaders navigating NIL, culture, leadership, and change, while continuing to write and speak on the realities facing modern college football. Stay up to date with Jay’s work, insights, and appearances: 🌐 Website: jvpaterno.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @jpaterno 📸 Instagram: @jvpaterno Interested in his book? Buy directly from his website or Amazon