Hacks & Hobbies

What if the secret to lifelong health isn’t a radical overhaul, but a series of tiny, consistent steps?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with renowned wellness coach Tess Cheng, whose journey and coaching philosophy are reshaping how we think about self-care. Tess reveals the science and stories behind building habits that last, sharing why “starting small” is the most powerful tool for transformation.From the influence of “Atomic Habits” to the real-life micro-habits that keep busy people thriving, Tess opens up about her own struggles, breakthroughs, and the emotional side of wellness. Whether you’re overwhelmed by change or searching for practical ways to prioritize yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action—one small step at a time.What You'll Learn:Why starting with just 10 minutes can change your life—and your brain.The hidden power of hydration and movement for busy professionals.How to “habit stack” for effortless self-improvement.The #1 strategy for disease preventio

What if your family’s health history could become your greatest source of strength?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Tess Cheng, a certified health and wellness coach with over 13 years of experience and a master’s in clinical nutrition from NYU. Tess’s journey from navigating hypoglycemia and a family legacy of diabetes to empowering others with practical, science-backed wellness strategies is as inspiring as it is actionable.Discover how Tess transformed personal adversity into a mission to help others reclaim control over their health. She shares the mindset shifts, daily habits, and science-driven insights that make wellness achievable—even for the busiest lives. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of change, Tess’s story will show you that small, consistent steps can lead to lifelong transformation.What You'll Learn:Your genes are not your destiny—prevention and mindful choices can rewrite your health story.Sustainable wellness starts with one small habit at a time, not an all-or-n

What if the secret to building an audio empire is listening, not talking?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Charlie Birney—co-founder of Podville Media, author of The Tao of Podcasting, and the “Chief Listening Officer”—to uncover the surprising journey from golf courses and property management to the heart of the podcasting revolution. Charlie shares how embracing change, following curiosity, and prioritizing connection over content transformed his career and the industry.Discover the philosophy behind podcasting’s most intimate moments, the power of internal podcasts, and why the best studios are built on empathy and service. This is a masterclass in reinvention, creativity, and the art of truly listening.What You'll Learn:Why “intimacy” is the secret ingredient that makes podcasting so powerful—and how to harness it.The story behind Podville Media’s evolution from “Podcast Village” and the rise of video in audio spaces.How Charlie’s background in real estate and philanthropy shaped his approa

What if the secret to thriving isn’t about being the toughest in the room, but the most adaptable?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Rand Selig—veteran investment banker, author of "Thriving," and master of intentional living—to uncover the hidden strategies behind building a life and career filled with purpose, energy, and fulfillment.From turning down a giant corporate offer to redefining what it means to be successful, Rand shares raw stories and practical tools for anyone ready to break free from society’s expectations. Discover how resilience, relationships, and a service mindset can transform setbacks into opportunities—and why your only real competition is the person in the mirror.What You'll Learn: Why resilience is about bouncing back, not just being tough—think rubber ball, not metal. The power of saying “no” to deals that don’t align with your values, even when Goliath comes knocking. How to stop letting society define your success and start living by your own standards. T

What if thriving isn’t about chasing someone else’s definition of success, but about making intentional choices every single day?In this powerful episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with entrepreneur, coach, and conservationist Rand Selig, author of "Thriving," to uncover the real science and psychology behind living a life of vitality, fulfillment, and meaning.Rand shares the untold story behind his book, the daily habits that fuel his energy, and the mindset shifts that separate those who merely survive from those who truly thrive. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, emotional depth, and the kind of curiosity-driven insights that will make you rethink what’s possible in your own life.What You'll Learn:Thriving starts with intentional choices and self-awareness—write down your values and revisit them often.Success is personal: define it on your own terms, not by society’s standards.Building resilience means embracing new chapters, learning from mistakes, and staying curious.Energy an

What if the only thing standing between you and your creative breakthrough is a single, courageous step of faith? In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Nye Young—host of the faith-based podcast Coffee Sips Tea, holistic creative coach, and creator of HA Sessions—to uncover the raw truth behind creativity, confidence, and calling.Nye’s journey is a testament to the power of saying “yes” to the unknown. From battling self-doubt to building a fail-proof method for unlocking creative potential, Nye reveals how faith and holistic practices can shatter your limitations. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, or simply searching for purpose, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about creativity.What You'll Learn:Faith and creativity are inseparable—your spiritual journey fuels your creative spark.Confidence is the #1 barrier to creative expression; overcoming fear is the first step.Creativity isn’t just art—it’s a tool for transformation in business, parenting, and daily life.

What if you could launch a profitable tech business—without ever learning to code? In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Dan Hafner, founder of Dapper No Code, to reveal the secrets behind the no code movement that’s transforming entrepreneurship. Dan shares the hard truths, the emotional rollercoaster, and the step-by-step blueprint for turning ideas into thriving SaaS businesses—no technical background required.From the power of validation to the pitfalls of falling in love with your own product, Dan’s journey is packed with raw insights and practical strategies. Whether you’re a dreamer with a notebook full of app ideas or a founder ready to scale, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about building software.What You'll Learn:The “Reverse SaaS Funnel Hack”: Why selling your solution before building it is the ultimate validation.Dan’s 3-step no code launch method—plus the tools that make it possible for anyone.The biggest mistake new founders make (and how to avoid it).How

Discover how one entrepreneur transformed his inability to code into a revolutionary business strategy that's changing the tech landscape forever.Dan Hafner isn't just another tech entrepreneur - he's a game-changer who proves that your lack of coding skills isn't a limitation, but a potential superpower. Through white-label software and no-code tools, he's cracked the code to building successful digital businesses without traditional programming knowledge.What You'll Learn:No coding skills? No problem - technology has democratized entrepreneurshipWhite-label software can fast-track your business launchMarketplaces and internal business tools are prime no-code opportunitiesAI is rapidly transforming no-code platformsYour imagination is the only real limitation in digital entrepreneurshipTimestamps:[0:00] From Mobile Lifestyle to Tech Innovation[0:03] The Moment He Realized No-Code Could Change Everything[0:07] Building Apps Without Knowing How to Code[0:11] White Labeling: The Secret Weapon of Modern Entrepre

In a world where traditional education is rapidly becoming obsolete, one visionary is rewriting the rules of learning for the next generation.Rehan Allahwalla isn't just running a school; he's creating a blueprint for human potential in the age of artificial intelligence. Through his innovative approach, he's empowering children to become entrepreneurs, problem-solvers, and global changemakers before they even turn 18.What You'll Learn:AI is not a threat, but a transformative tool for educationChildren have a 3-4x higher learning potential than adultsFailure is a stepping stone, not a roadblockTechnology enables early entrepreneurship and skill developmentMentorship and community are crucial for personal growthTimestamps:[0:00] From Computer Tinkerer to Educational Innovator[0:10] The Early Days of Technological Curiosity[0:15] Embracing Failure as a Learning Mechanism[0:25] Integrating AI into Modern Education[0:35] Building a School for the Post-AI World[0:45] Empowering Students Through Tec

What if the key to happiness isn't found in success, money, or comfort—but in the courage to live authentically? Gregory Russell Benedikt discovered that true fulfillment comes from taking bold, terrifying leaps that align with your deepest purpose.In this transformative conversation, Gregory shares the life-changing insights that helped him escape the corporate world and create a mission of empowering people to break through fear, embrace vulnerability, and design a story worth telling.What You'll Learn:Fear is a compass, not a roadblock—it signals you're moving toward meaningful growthHappiness can't be purchased; it's a byproduct of courageous, aligned actionResistance shows up as self-doubt, procrastination, and perfectionismYour most extraordinary life exists just beyond your comfort zoneRejection and discomfort are powerful teachers of personal transformationTimestamps:[0:00] The Existential Crisis that Changed Everything[0:01] Escaping the Corporate Trap: A Journey to Authenticity[0

Prepare to shatter the chains of procrastination and transform your life with Gregory Benedikt's revolutionary approach to bold action. In this electrifying episode, Gregory reveals the hidden psychology behind why we hesitate and provides a game-changing framework to turn your dreams into reality.Procrastination isn't about laziness—it's about fear. By breaking down complex goals into bite-sized actions and creating powerful commitment devices, you can breakthrough the invisible barriers holding you back and step into your most extraordinary self.What You'll Learn:Understand the real root of procrastination: fear and uncertaintyLearn the three-step bold action frameworkDiscover how to create "commitment devices" that lock in your goalsEmbrace discomfort as the pathway to exponential growthRealize that bold action collapses time and attracts unexpected opportunitiesTimestamps:[0:00] The Procrastination Myth Exposed[0:32] Why Fear Stops Us from Taking Action[2:45] Real-World Bold Acti

Discover the hidden blueprint for building unbreakable relationships that will revolutionize your personal and professional world.Michelle Hoffmann isn't just another relationship expert - she's a transformative coach who has decoded the intricate science of human connection. In this electrifying podcast, she reveals her groundbreaking framework for building trust, communication, and self-confidence that can turn any interaction into a powerful opportunity.What You'll Learn:Master the three stages of relationship development: chemistry, casual, and committedLearn why self-trust is the foundation of all successful relationshipsUnderstand how body language communicates more than words ever couldIdentify your core values as a roadmap to meaningful connectionsDiscover how to make an unforgettable first impression in just 1/10 of a secondTimestamps:[0:00] The Relationship Revolution Begins[0:01] Core Pillars of Successful Connections[0:03] The Overlooked Skill of Self-Confidence[0:05] Decoding Communic

Discover the revolutionary relationship blueprint that turns personal tragedy into transformative success.Michelle Hoffmann isn't just a relationship coach - she's a life strategist who rebuilt her world after devastating loss, creating a powerful methodology for personal and professional connection. Through her journey from corporate executive to global relationship expert, she reveals how meaningful relationships are the hidden key to unlocking your true potential.What You'll Learn:Learn how grief can be a catalyst for personal growthUnderstand the neurobiological design of human connectionDiscover how to build a personal "advisory board" for successMaster the relationship cycle from chemistry to commitmentTransform professional and personal relationships through intentional communicationTimestamps:[0:00] From Tragedy to Transformation: Michelle's Origin Story[0:06] The Neurobiological Imperative of Human Connection[0:13] Career Elevation Through Relationship Intelligence[0:18] Bre

Unlock the Roadmap to Business Mastery with Martha Razo, the Mathematical Maverick Who's Transforming Entrepreneurs' DestiniesIn this electrifying podcast episode, Martha Razo deconstructs the five critical pillars of business growth, sharing her transformative blueprint that has helped countless entrepreneurs scale from struggling startups to potential billion-dollar enterprises. Her raw, unfiltered wisdom cuts through traditional business advice, offering a holistic approach that combines strategic thinking with personal wellness.What You'll Learn:Discover the five non-negotiable pillars of business success: marketing, sales, operations, finance, and healthLearn why understanding your personal purpose is crucial for sustainable business growthMaster the three critical metrics every business owner must track monthlyUnderstand why cash flow is the #1 reason businesses failEmbrace the power of delegation and systems to accelerate your entrepreneurial journeyTimestamps:[0:00] The Business Transforma

What happens when a young woman with nothing but raw determination decides to transform her family's struggling business?Martha Razo's journey is a masterclass in entrepreneurial resilience, mathematical precision, and strategic thinking.Starting in a freezing trailer with just a shoebox of papers, Martha turned her father's pallet company from a struggling enterprise into a $14.2 million powerhouse. Her story is not just about business growth—it's about breaking generational limitations and proving that data, passion, and relentless optimism can rewrite your destiny.What You'll Learn :Embrace challenges as opportunities for growthUse data-driven decision making to scale businessesDon't let fear stop you from taking actionTreat failures as valuable learning experiencesCombine technical skills with entrepreneurial spiritTimestamps:[0:00] From Chipotle to Pallet Empire: The Unlikely Origin Story[0:06] Transforming a Struggling Family Business[0:11] The Power of Data in Business Strategy[

Are you trapped in the corporate maze, dreaming of entrepreneurial freedom?Meet John Anderson, the franchise whisperer who has helped countless professionals escape the 9-to-5 grind and build businesses that align with their lifestyle. As a seasoned franchise consultant and author of "Be the CEO of Your Life," John decodes the complex world of franchising, revealing strategies that transform ordinary people into successful business owners.This episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurial strategy, exploring how franchising offers a proven pathway to business ownership without the typical startup risks. John breaks down the critical elements of finding the right franchise - from understanding your personal goals to identifying opportunities beyond traditional fast-food models.

Hey hobby hackers! Today's episode is going to blow your mind. We're diving deep into the world of franchising with John Anderson, the man known as "that franchise guy." Imagine going from operating a student painting business in college to running multiple successful franchise locations, and then becoming a top franchise consultant who helps others navigate this exciting business landscape.John's journey is anything but ordinary. He'll share how he transitioned from mortgage banking to becoming a franchise owner, running a wildly successful inflatable play center, and ultimately helping entrepreneurs find their perfect business opportunity. Whether you're dreaming of business ownership or just curious about how franchising works, this episode is packed with insights, real-world experiences, and game-changing advice.Get ready to learn how one strategic decision can transform your career, create financial freedom, and open doors you never thought possible. Buckle up, because this conversation with John Anderso

What if the real future of business isn’t about replacing people with AI—but using AI to amplify top performers?In this follow-up episode, Kasim Aslam explains how he built global teams, why hiring international talent is the most overlooked growth strategy, and how AI exposes mediocrity while rewarding excellence. From his “replace yourself” mindset to his predictions on AI-driven economies, Kasim lays out the blueprint for building lean, intelligent, people-powered businesses.

Welcome to another episode of the Hux and Hobbies podcast! I’m your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today we’re diving deep with Qasim Aslam—entrepreneur, strategist, and one of the brightest minds in building businesses that don’t burn you out. In this episode, Qasim shares game-changing insights on how to build and lead high-performing teams, the power of effective delegation, and why your first hire should be an executive assistant. We’ll explore the incredible opportunities that come from hiring international talent, and how gratitude and impact can transform your business and the lives of your team. Plus, we tackle the big question: is AI a threat to jobs, or the ultimate performance amplifier for top talent? Qasim breaks down how AI is reshaping the future of work, and offers practical advice for integrating AI into your business right now. Get ready for actionable strategies, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on building a lean, intelligent, people-powered business. Let’s jump in!Where to reach Our Gu

Welcome to another episode of Hobby Hackers! Today, we’re joined by the incredible Elizabeth Solaru—a true trailblazer who’s made bold career transitions, from scientist to celebrity cake designer, and now, a leading luxury business consultant. As CEO of Diversity in Luxury and founder of the Diversity in Luxury Awards, Elizabeth brings a fresh perspective to the world of high-end brands. In this episode, she shares her fascinating journey, the pivotal moments that inspired her to break the mold, and her mission to make luxury both inclusive and exclusive. We’ll dive into her insights on finding the right clients, building a legacy, and why diversity is essential in the luxury industry. Whether you’re dreaming of launching your own luxury brand or just love a good story of reinvention, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Stay tuned as we unlock the secrets to thriving in the world of luxury with Elizabeth Solaru!3 Hacks to take awayBold Career Transitions: The episode highlights the power of embracing c