Podcast Summary: "Left for Dead, Raised by Hustle: How to Win When Life Breaks You!" Feat. Tiki Davis
Podcast Information:
- Title: THE ED MYLETT SHOW
- Host/Author: Ed Mylett | Cumulus Podcast Network
- Episode: Left for Dead, Raised by Hustle: How to Win When Life Breaks You! Feat. Tiki Davis
- Release Date: August 12, 2025
Introduction
In this powerful episode of The Ed Mylett Show, host Ed Mylett welcomes motivational speaker and entrepreneur Tiki Davis. Tiki shares his harrowing life story—from surviving a traumatic childhood to rising as a multi-millionaire and influential speaker. This episode delves deep into themes of resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of hustle.
Early Life and Trauma ([02:45] - [10:10])
Tiki Davis opens up about his tumultuous upbringing. At just nine years old, he was brutally stabbed in the neck, an event that left him bleeding and fighting for his life. This traumatic incident was a defining moment that showcased his innate strength and will to survive.
Notable Quote:
- Tiki Davis [12:39]: "The only reason I was able to survive is because I decided to fight for my life."
Tiki describes living with his grandmother after his father was incarcerated and the complexities of his relationship with his mother, who struggled with her own circumstances.
Adversity and Group Home ([10:32] - [19:46])
At twelve, Tiki's life took another turn when he was sent to a group home. This environment provided him with stability for the first time, including regular meals, a small allowance, and a sense of normalcy. Despite the challenges, Tiki emerged as a leader among his peers, developing resilience and leadership skills that would serve him later in life.
Notable Quote:
- Ed Mylett [27:04]: "You definitely have that right. When I walked in the studio, he was here before me."
Tiki's time in the group home was instrumental in shaping his disciplined work ethic and commitment to self-improvement.
Transition to Success ([19:46] - [36:46])
Tiki's journey from the group home to pursuing higher education is a testament to his determination. Despite the odds, he graduated with both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. Entering the oil industry, Tiki started as a field engineer earning $13 an hour but quickly rose to prominence, eventually earning over a million dollars a year.
Notable Quote:
- Tiki Davis [40:01]: "And not only was the best, I became the best engineer in the world."
His success in the oil business laid the foundation for his ventures into real estate and motivational speaking.
Achieving Milestones ([38:03] - [47:55])
Tiki discusses his meteoric rise in the oil industry and his subsequent investments in real estate. His ability to leverage opportunities and his unwavering belief in himself propelled him to become a multi-millionaire. Additionally, his passion for sharing his story led him to become a sought-after motivational speaker and author, with his story being adapted into a movie.
Notable Quote:
- Tiki Davis [58:03]: "So I went from a thousand dollars, me, not a thousand dollars, $100 a day, to $7,000 a week. And so that day on Friday, they had to cut me a seventh day. So that was the shift moment."
TIKI Factor Principles ([41:01] onwards)
Central to Tiki's philosophy are the TIKI Factor principles, an acronym representing four key elements essential for personal and professional success:
- Total Commitment: Devoting oneself entirely to one's goals.
- Imagination: Living from one's imagination rather than being constrained by history.
- Kindred Spirits: Surrounding oneself with positive and like-minded individuals.
- Invest in Yourself: Continuously enhancing one's skills and knowledge.
Notable Quote:
- Tiki Davis [41:01]: "The T stands for total commitment. I challenge that person to make a total commitment to your life, your hopes and your dreams."
These principles have been the bedrock of Tiki’s success and are central themes in his book, "The Tiki Fact."
Overcoming Belief Systems and Mindset ([42:12] - [45:43])
Ed and Tiki delve into the importance of core beliefs and mindset. Tiki emphasizes believing in oneself, especially when external validation is lacking. He shares strategies for building self-belief through small, consistent actions and the power of making and keeping promises to oneself.
Notable Quote:
- Tiki Davis [45:43]: "Small wins to get there. And that's what I used to do. Small wins."
Tiki advises listeners to focus on incremental progress, reinforcing that success is a journey built through daily efforts.
Current Achievements and Legacy ([55:10] - [62:34])
From a troubled youth to a celebrated figure, Tiki's achievements are multifaceted. He has become the first African American inducted into Ross State University's Hall of Fame as a distinguished alumnus. His real estate ventures continue to thrive, and his influence as a speaker and author inspires millions.
Notable Quote:
- Tiki Davis [60:59]: "I'm the best in the world doing Tiki Davis. My standard is different because I went through more than you."
Tiki's legacy is not just in his financial success but in his commitment to uplifting others and sharing his story to help others overcome their own adversities.
Closing Remarks
Ed Mylett concludes the episode by lauding Tiki's extraordinary journey and storytelling prowess. He highlights the transformative impact Tiki's story can have on listeners, encouraging them to find their own shift moments inspired by Tiki's resilience and determination.
Notable Quote:
- Ed Mylett [61:52]: "You've done something for millions of people today that nobody else could do."
Key Takeaways
-
Resilience in Adversity: Tiki's life exemplifies how overcoming severe trauma can lay the foundation for immense personal growth and success.
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The Power of Self-Belief: Building and maintaining belief in oneself is crucial, especially when external support is minimal.
-
Consistency and Small Wins: Achieving large goals is a result of consistent, small efforts compounded over time.
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Positive Environment: Surrounding oneself with supportive and like-minded individuals can significantly influence one's path to success.
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Purpose Over Accolades: True success is measured by one's purpose and the positive impact on others, not just financial or social accolades.
Where to Connect with Tiki Davis:
- Website: tikidavis.com
- Instagram: @Tikifactor
- Facebook: Tiki Davis
This episode of The Ed Mylett Show is a compelling testament to human endurance and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams despite overwhelming odds. Tiki Davis’s story is an inspiring blueprint for anyone seeking to transform their life through commitment, imagination, and unwavering self-belief.