In this episode of Breakthrough 180, host Neal DiPentino sits down with Rick Franzo, a nationally recognized business coach and three-time brain tumor survivor, for a raw and inspiring conversation about survival, identity, and entrepreneurship.

Rick shares how a backyard barbecue in May 2009 led to a life-altering diagnosis:

“You have less than two weeks to live.”

From that moment on, his life changed forever—culminating in 10.5 hours of brain surgery, paralysis, and a recovery doctors called a miracle.

This is more than a comeback story. It’s a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and turning pain into purpose.

In this powerful conversation, you'll hear:

The exact moment his symptoms began while playing horseshoes
How he walked out of rehab in 46 days despite doctors’ doubts
His journey into entrepreneurship with The Growth Coach after being seen as “untouchable” in the job market
The emotional and psychological toll of surviving, but feeling "broken"
Why empathy, not just strategy, is his greatest asset as a coach
How he teaches clients to “help themselves help themselves”

🎤 Podcast Quote:

“Hope isn't necessarily strategy, but it is tangible.”

🎧 If you've ever felt stuck in life or business, this episode will show you the way forward—from someone who's been there.

Connect with Rick Franzo:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-franzo-52948b26/
Website: https://www.thegrowthcoach.com/poconos/
Podbean: https://businessandbraintumortalk.podbean.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rickfranzo3549

Connect with Neal DiPentino:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-dipentino-73149ba/
Website: https://tmxcreative.com/
Podbean: https://breakthrough180.podbean.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tmx-creative

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