Podcast
Forever Forward
Hosted by Michael Thomas · EN
Highlighting subject matter experts, unique life stories and occasionally myself at least once per week.
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Truth about Hustle, Wealth and Happiness - Joe Potenza
Dec 101:08:32Tap to summarizeJoe's IG: https://www.instagram.com/joepotenza4Millionaire entrepreneur Joe Potenza breaks down the exact frameworks he uses to build and scale seven-figure businesses, including how he grew his social media from zero to more than seventy thousand followers in a single year. He explains the systems behind his growth, the mindset that keeps him relentlessly improving, and the deeper identity work that grounds him. Joe also opens up about the more vulnerable sides of his journey and what drives him to keep pushing forward.Please hit the like button if you enjoyed, and be sure to subscribe! Forever Forward highlights subject matter experts and unique life stories every week.00:00 - Businesses and Social Media Scaling04:49 - Applying Successful Business Frameworks to Life11:19 - Doing 100% is Easier Than 99%20:27 - Get Good at ONE THING23:28 - Joe's Morning Routine, Faith31:33 - Self Worth vs. Earnings39:24 - Victim Mindset, Success Stories47:49 - Narrative Arcs, Joe's Focus Areas58:55 - Biggest Business Growth This Year, Becoming a "Social Media Guy"
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Identity Expert Daniel Schuler - Finding The Way Back to Yourself
Nov 1700:40:17Tap to summarizeDaniel Schuler has guided hundreds of individuals through challenges tied to identity, purpose, and relationships. In this conversation, he breaks down why reconnecting with your most authentic self matters, and the real risks that come with drifting away from it.
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How to Lead with Purpose in a Divided World - Deke Copenhaver, Former Mayor of Augusta, Georgia
Jun 2200:25:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Forever Forward, I sit down with Deke Copenhaver - author of The Changemaker, former mayor of Augusta, Georgia, and a passionate advocate for purpose-driven leadership. We explore the core ideas from his book, including how to lead with authenticity, create positive change, and build stronger communities in a divided world.Deke shares candid insights on:- The principles of changemaking- How to build genuine connection in an age of isolation- The power of servant leadership in business, politics, and daily life
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College Dropout to CEO - Kevin Fagundes on Building Businesses at 26
Jun 1400:33:56Tap to summarizen this episode of Forever Forward, I sit down with Kevin Fagundes - founder of Red Waves Media and co-founder of studio2U - to explore what it takes to craft powerful stories at major conferences, tech events, and beyond. Kevin shares insights on building a creative business, working with global brands, and how great storytelling connects audiences in an age of AI and noise.We cover his journey from college dropout to entrepreneur, the lessons he’s learned working with clients like Anheuser-Busch, Tyreek Hill’s Soul Runner, Google, and CrewAI, and his philosophy on creating content that actually resonates.
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You Are NOT Lost - Top Life Coach Shares Why Life Isn't Linear
May 19, 202500:47:52Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Forever Forward, I sit down with life coach and former lawyer Tara Simkins to explore how life coaching can help you navigate personal growth, career transitions, and emotional roadblocks. We dive into the difference between therapy and coaching, and why having someone who believes in your potential — like a quarterback coach for your life — can change everything.Tara shares insights on overcoming burnout, dealing with high-achiever pressure, and finding fulfillment beyond external success. We discuss the Hero’s Journey, the evolution of purpose and identity, and themes from Arthur Brooks’ Strength to Strength. Whether you're navigating change, feeling stuck, or searching for deeper meaning, this conversation will hopefully offer clarity and encouragement.
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Perseverance and Possibilities - Turner Simkins on His Son Brennan's Fight Against Leukemia
May 1, 202500:36:25Tap to summarizeAuthor and advocate Turner Simkins shares his family’s journey through his son Brennan’s battle with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as chronicled in his memoir Possibilities. Turner discusses faith, hope, resilience, and the founding of the Press On Fund, which has raised millions for pediatric cancer research.
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Decoding the Generations: Boomers, Gen Z, and Beyond - Lynn Barger Elliott
Apr 21, 202500:41:37Tap to summarizeWhy do Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z see the world so differently? In this episode, Lynn Barger Elliott dives into generational theory — exploring how cycles of history shape attitudes, values, and behaviors across time. From culture wars to economic outlooks, Lynn unpacks the hidden patterns that explain generational clashes, social change, and what might be coming next.
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Connor Tomlinson's Brother Jack on Love on the Spectrum Season 3
Apr 11, 202500:19:20Tap to summarizeJack Tomlinson joins Forever Forward to discuss his excitement for Love on the Spectrum Season 3, which just released on Netflix. Jack also discusses the future plans for his brand, Unify, which is linked below: https://unifyclo.com/
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Suffering a Spinal Cord Injury and Finding the Silver Lining - Al Danza
Apr 1, 202500:31:32Tap to summarizeAl Danza shares his experience suffering a spinal cord injury as an adult. Al also shares tips for building relationships in business, as well as stories from his recovery journey.
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Behind the Badge - NYPD Veteran Vin Scotto on Resilience and Leadership
Mar 21, 202500:46:35Tap to summarizeNYPD Veteran Vin Scotto shares stories from his career in the New York City Police Department. Vin also reflects on his journey with mental health, how to become resilient, and what makes a good leader.
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