The Hitstreak

Episode 239: Intentional Wealth: Stop Earning. Start Building. w/ Justyn Melendez

Episode 239 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!   This week we are joined by Financial Architect, Investor, and Founder of Intentional Wealth and NextGen Legacy Group, Justyn Melendez! Episode in a Glance: In this episode of the Hitstreak, I get to talk with financial expert Justyn Melendez, exploring the importance of financial literacy and the role of a financial architect. We discuss the impact of childhood beliefs on money, the transition from physical to mental wealth, and the significance of surrounding oneself with successful individuals. The conversation also touches on the transformative effects of COVID on career choices and the necessity of sharing knowledge and experiences in the financial realm. The episode concludes with a role-playing exercise on financial conversations and a discussion on the true definition of financial freedom. Key Points: - Money is just a tool for good or bad. - Childhood beliefs shape our money mindset. - Understanding tax strategies is essential. - You must unlock the future version of yourself. - Financial professionals often have limited knowledge of broader strategies. - Unconscious spending habits can lead to financial mismanagement. - Building a supportive network can enhance financial success. - Financial freedom is defined by passive income supporting lifestyle expenses. About our guest:  Justyn Melendez is a Financial Architect, Investor, and Founder of Intentional Wealth and NextGen Legacy Group, where he designs and deploys strategic wealth systems for individuals and business owners seeking to scale beyond traditional financial limitations. He focuses on capital allocation, investment structuring, and private market opportunities, with an emphasis on assets that generate cash flow, tax efficiency, and long-term equity growth.  Through his work, Justyn has been directly involved in structuring and raising capital for high-value investment opportunities, positioning investors to participate in deals typically not accessible to the average individual. Rather than teaching conventional financial advice, Justyn challenges the way people think about money—shifting them from earn-and-save mindsets to strategic ownership, capital deployment, and cash flow optimization. He is also the founder of the Intentional Wealth Mastermind, a community designed for individuals committed to increasing their financial IQ, expanding their network, and building generational wealth through aligned action.  Outside of business, Justyn serves as a Sergeant First Class in the United States Army, where his leadership experience reinforces his disciplined approach to execution, risk management, and long-term strategy. His mission is to help others operate with clarity and intention, build true financial independence, and create legacy-level impact. Follow and contact: Instagram: @melendezjustyn [https://www.instagram.com/melendezjustyn/] NextGenLegacygroup.co [http://nextgenlegacygroup.co] Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠r [https://www.youtube.com/NickHite%E2%81%A0r] Follow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://open.spotify.com/show/61mf8Q1aa6qwj955krpTBt] Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hitstreak/id1589470829] Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-hitstreak-151991440/]

Episode 238: Veins, Botox & Bass Drops: The Surgeon Behind Nashville’s Glow w/ Dr. Tif Siragusa

Episode 238 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!   This week we are joined by Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon at Siragusa Vein and Laser, Dr. Tif Siragusa! Episode in a Glance: In this episode of the Hitstreak, I get to sit down with Dr. Tif Siragusa, a vascular surgeon by day and DJ by night, to explore the complexities of vein disease, its symptoms, and the importance of understanding its medical implications. We discuss the connection between lifestyle, genetics, and vein health, as well as the misconceptions surrounding cosmetic versus medical vein issues. Dr. Siragusa shares his journey into the medical field and emphasizes the need for education and awareness regarding vein health. The discussion also touches on the impact of diet on vascular health and the complexities of navigating health insurance for treatment costs. Dr. Tif encourages proactive health management and offers insights into preventative care. Key Points: - Vein disease can progress to serious health issues if untreated. - Genetics play a significant role in vein health. - Lifestyle choices can impact vein health significantly. - Education is crucial for early intervention in vein disease. - Regular monitoring and proactive health measures are essential. - Sealing off problematic veins improves overall circulation. - Proactive health management is key to wellness. - Online screenings can make consultations more accessible. About our guest:  Dr. Tif Siragusa is a board-certified vascular surgeon and one of Middle Tennessee’s leading vein specialists, known for delivering advanced, minimally invasive solutions that restore both health and confidence. Since 2008, he has treated more than 15,000 patients, addressing everything from varicose and spider veins to complex vascular conditions including blood clots and venous ulcers. As the founder of Siragusa Vein and Laser, Dr. Siragusa combines cutting-edge technology with a highly personalized approach to care, ensuring each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their goals and lifestyle.  His work goes beyond aesthetics—focusing on improving mobility, reducing pain, and helping patients regain the confidence to live fully and actively. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Siragusa is committed to advancing the field of vein care. He regularly trains physicians on innovative, precision-based procedures and remains at the forefront of emerging techniques. He is also among a select few physicians in the United States offering specialized, minimally invasive treatments for bulging forehead and temple veins—expanding options for patients seeking solutions to previously difficult-to-treat conditions.  Dr. Siragusa’s mission is simple: to help patients move better, feel better, and live with confidence—free from the limitations of vein disease. Follow and contact: Instagram: @tifsiragusa [https://www.instagram.com/tifsiragusa/] | @dr.nashville [https://www.instagram.com/dr.nashville/] nashvilleveincenter.com [http://nashvilleveincenter.com] Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠r [https://www.youtube.com/NickHite%E2%81%A0r] Follow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://open.spotify.com/show/61mf8Q1aa6qwj955krpTBt] Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hitstreak/id1589470829] Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-hitstreak-151991440/]

Episode 237: Haven Academy: Where Hybrid Learning Meets Parent Partnership w/ Emily Isom

Episode 237 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!   This week we are joined by the Co-Founder and Administrator of Haven Academy, Emily Isom! Episode in a Glance: In this episode of the Hitstreak, Rhi and I welcome Emily Isom, co-founder of Haven Academy, to discuss the innovative approach to education that the school embodies. We explore the challenges and triumphs of starting a school during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of community in education, and the unique hybrid model that Haven Academy offers. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional support in education, the significance of family involvement, and the future of learning in a rapidly changing world. We talk about the challenges of traditional education, the importance of creating a supportive environment for children, and the future aspirations of the academy. Finally, we highlight the significance of allowing children to thrive in a flexible learning atmosphere that caters to their individual needs and interests. Key Points: - The importance of social and emotional development in children. - The hybrid school model allows for more family time and individualized education. - Building a strong community is essential for student success. - Transparency and communication between parents and educators are crucial. - Haven Academy focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for students. - Families looking for hands-on education thrive in hybrid models. - Parental involvement is key in determining children's grades. - The education system must adapt to the changing world. - Kids need to be allowed to learn outside of traditional settings. - It's important to take risks and embrace uncertainty in education. About our guest:  Emily Isom is an educator, entrepreneur, and mother of four dedicated to building meaningful experiences for children and families. A Franklin, Tennessee native, she co-founded Haven Academy, where she fosters personalized, purposeful learning that supports both academic and social-emotional growth.  Drawing from her diverse parenting journey—including raising children with unique needs—Emily leads with heart, balancing high expectations with care, collaboration, and grace. Her leadership emphasizes hands-on learning, individualized instruction, and strong relationships between students, families, and staff. A builder at heart, Emily brings vision to life through school programs, community initiatives, and growth opportunities, guided by faith, resilience, and a commitment to service.  Known for her warmth, authenticity, and drive, she is passionate about creating communities where children and families can thrive. Follow and contact: Instagram: @emilyisom [https://www.instagram.com/emilyisom/] | @havenacademytn [https://www.instagram.com/havenacademytn/] Haven-academy.com [http://haven-academy.com] Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠r [https://www.youtube.com/NickHite%E2%81%A0r] Follow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://open.spotify.com/show/61mf8Q1aa6qwj955krpTBt] Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hitstreak/id1589470829] Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-hitstreak-151991440/]

Episode 236: Unlearning Today’s Truths to See What Others Never Will w/ Marcus Whitney

Episode 236 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!   This week we are joined by the Co-Founder & Minority Owner of the Nashville Soccer Club, Founding Partner of Jumpstart Health Investors, Founder & Managing Partner of Jumpstart Nova & Author of Create and Orchestrate, Marcus Whitney! Episode in a Glance: In this episode of the Hitstreak, I get to welcome back my friend, Marcus Whitney, a serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist. We discuss Whitney's journey from adversity to success, the impact of family and community, the importance of martial arts in his life, and the significance of time management and intentionality in achieving goals. The conversation highlights personal growth, resilience, and the power of words in shaping one's reality. The episode also touches on the significance of proximity to opportunities and the adaptability required in business, particularly in the healthcare sector. We go into the significance of representation in media, the current civilizational phase change, and the impact of artificial intelligence on personal and professional landscapes. Key Points: - You've got to be willing to do the thing that looks crazy. - Saying no reinforces the yeses you've already committed to. - Intentionality is key to achieving your goals. - Family plays a crucial role in shaping identity and values. - Planning for the future allows you to live in the present. - Humility is key to recognizing true professionalism. - Adapting to change is crucial in business. - Building connections is vital for success. - Unlearning base truths can lead to new insights. About our guest:  Marcus Whitney is one of the most influential healthcare investors in the United States, known for building one of the nation’s most active early-stage healthcare venture platforms. He is the Founding Partner of Jumpstart Health Investors, a leading healthcare-focused venture capital firm with a portfolio of over 100 companies, and Founder & Managing Partner of Jumpstart Nova—an institutional seed fund investing in Black-founded and led healthcare startups.  Marcus is also Co-Founder and Minority Owner of Nashville Soccer Club, playing a key role in the club’s evolution into a Major League Soccer franchise. He is the author of the Amazon #1 bestselling book Create and Orchestrate, centered on unlocking creative power through entrepreneurship, and is widely recognized as a national thought leader in healthcare innovation and equity. Marcus serves on multiple influential boards including Celtic Bank, the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum, the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corporation, OZ Arts, Healthcare Financial Management Association, and Scott Hamilton CARES.  An Aspen Health Innovators Fellow and 3x IBJJF Masters World Champion in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Marcus blends high-performance discipline with long-term strategic thinking in both business and life. Follow and contact: Instagram: @marcuswhitney [https://www.instagram.com/marcuswhitney/] marcuswhitney.com [http://marcuswhitney.com] Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠r [https://www.youtube.com/NickHite%E2%81%A0r] Follow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://open.spotify.com/show/61mf8Q1aa6qwj955krpTBt] Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hitstreak/id1589470829] Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-hitstreak-151991440/]

Episode 235: How to Earn Your Call Sign: The Watch Even Pilots Trust w/ Beau Garrett

Episode 235 of The Hitstreak, a podcast where we talk about anything and everything!   This week we are joined by the Founder of Call Sign Watches, Beau Garrett! Episode in a Glance: In this episode of the Hitstreak, I interview Beau Garrett, a commercial pilot and founder of Call Sign, a unique watch brand. We discuss Beau's journey from aviation to entrepreneurship, the design process behind his watches, and his collaborations with iconic brands like the Wright Brothers Family and the American Legion. The conversation highlights the importance of community feedback in product development, the challenges of starting a watch brand, and the significance of honoring American history through his timepieces. The episode ends by emphasizing the emotional connections people have with timepieces and the stories behind them, making them meaningful gifts for various occasions, as well as what comes next for Call Sign! Key Points: - Community feedback was crucial in the design process of Call Sign watches. - The Discovery Series was designed with input from over 1,800 pilots. - The American Legion series aims to honor veterans and their contributions. - Pricing strategy is essential for balancing quality and market expectations. - Beau emphasizes the importance of storytelling in branding and product design. - Entrepreneurship involves navigating doubts and uncertainties. - Building a brand with purpose resonates with customers. - The watch industry is seeing a resurgence in traditional timepieces. - Every watch tells a story that connects with its owner. About our guest:  Beau is the founder of Call Sign, a Nashville-based aviation watch brand rooted in a simple belief: that pilots deserve gear made by people who understand them. Beau is one of those people. A former flight instructor whose students included former Air Force and Navy officers, he spent years inside a world where precision is personal and every detail carries weight. That experience didn’t just inform Call Sign — it created it.  Before designing a single dial, Beau went straight to the source, conducting an in-depth pilot survey to understand how aviators actually relate to the tools they carry. The findings shaped everything — from complication choices to price points to the brand voice that’s earned Call Sign a loyal following among pilots and veterans alike. The brand’s most celebrated release is the Wright Brothers Series — and its origin story says everything about where Call Sign stands in the aviation world.  Today, Call Sign sits at the intersection of precision craftsmanship and authentic aviation identity — a growing brand with a national customer base and a founder who still sees the community first, the business second. Beau is based in Nashville, where he’s building what he believes should have always existed: an American aviation watch brand that pilots actually claim as their own. Follow and contact: Instagram: @callsignwatches [https://www.instagram.com/callsignwatches/] mycallsign.com [http://mycallsign.com] Subscribe to Nick's top-rated podcast The Hitstreak on Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/NickHite⁠r [https://www.youtube.com/NickHite%E2%81%A0r] Follow and Rate us on Spotify: ⁠https://spotify.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://open.spotify.com/show/61mf8Q1aa6qwj955krpTBt] Follow and Rate us on Apple Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/NickHiter⁠ [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hitstreak/id1589470829] Follow and Rate us on iHeartRadio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/NickHiter [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-hitstreak-151991440/]