From MTV to Mastering Media with Debbie Matenopolous

Redemption Behind Bars: How a Former Inmate Found Purpose in Prison

Welcome to a new episode of Built to Win! In this episode, we sit down with a two-time NCAA national champion, former international drug kingpin, and current federal inmate. He shares his remarkable journey, from his humble beginnings as a surfer kid in Redondo Beach to his rise as a successful entrepreneur in the world of sports betting and drug trafficking. However, his ambition and risk-taking ultimately led him down a dangerous path, culminating in his arrest and incarceration. His story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the fine line between entrepreneurial success and criminal downfall. Highlights: "I'm that kid that came from that blue collar family in Redondo Beach, and I'm looking at myself going, how am I going to survive here?" "I'm an entrepreneur. Man, I could take $15 an item and get $100 and get 100 winning. That's almost a 1000% markup." "I'm not gonna lie, Brian, you know, I stopped as soon as I graduated college. You know, it served its purpose, and made this money to be able to afford to live in college because my parents weren't able to help me." "Once you go down that illegal rabbit hole, there's that rabbit hole, and it's illegal activity down that rabbit hole, it's hard to get out, because once you cross that line, yeah, of being on the fence, of maybe I could just do a little, just a little, let me just Yeah, it's that once you start making that cash, that fast cash, you can't go back. It's just too hard." Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction  00:40 - Upbringing and Volleyball Journey 03:07 - The Transition to USC and Initial Drug Dealing 07:35 - Expansion into Sports Betting 13:38 - Mastery of Business Retention and Acquisition 20:46 - Involvement with the Cartel and Increasing Risks 27:58 - Losing the Cartel's Money and the Heat Intensifying 32:40 - Working for the Cartel to Pay Back the $4 Million 34:48 - The Arrest and Reflection on His Entrepreneurial Journey 37:37 - Appreciation for the Simple Pleasures of Life Outside Prison

Legacy of a King: Aaron Bolden on Family and Fame

Welcome to a new episode of Built to Win! In this episode, we have the pleasure of introducing Aaron Bolden, a digital marketing and brand integration expert. Aaron shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the gang-affected Crenshaw district of Los Angeles to finding his passion for music and entrepreneurship. He discusses the importance of mentorship, personal growth, and how he overcame adversity to achieve his dreams. Highlights: "I had a thirst for knowledge." "I was born in the bloodline of a king." "Music became my therapy." "You have to have capital behind you to push in relationships." Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Early Life and Family Background 0:06:22 - Gang Involvement and Early Struggles  0:11:27 - Transition to Music and Early Success 0:15:27 - Education and Early Career 0:20:18 - Breakthrough and Industry Experience 0:33:22 - Challenges and Personal Growth 0:37:11 - Professional Development and Business Acumen 0:45:33 - Mentorship and Personal Philosophy 0:51:42 - Importance of Mental Health 0:59:23 - Future Aspirations and Legacy

Hoops, Hardship, and Honor: Larry Lewis’ Journey

Welcome to a new episode of Built to Win! Today, we're joined by Larry Lewis, a former professional basketball player, NBA and NCAA college development coach, and what many would consider a human development coach. In this episode, Larry shares his inspiring journey from the courts of Los Angeles to playing and coaching basketball across the globe. We'll delve into the trials, triumphs, and the profound lessons he's learned along the way. Highlights: "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear."   "What got you there may not keep you there." "Always play like you're making up for a mistake." "God has a plan for all." Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Larry Lewis, Human Development Coach 03:39 - Beginnings in Dominican Republic and CBA 07:20 - Cultural Growth and Maturity in Japan 10:06 - Advancement to Spain's Top Leagues 13:03 - A Decade in Spain and Transitioning to Coaching 17:00 - Learning from Kobe Bryant 20:16 - Coaching with the Lakers and Kings 23:07 - From Playing to Coaching: Transferring Wisdom 27:20 - Transitioning Beyond the Court 31:26 - Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

From MTV to Mastering Media with Debbie Matenopolous

Welcome to a new episode of Built to Win. In this episode, we’re joined by Debbie Matenopolous. She’s one of the youngest hosts of a major daytime talk show. Discover the journey from a small town in Virginia to the buzzing streets of New York, where dreams of working at MTV became a reality. Filled with heart, hustle, and a touch of humor, Debbie shares insights into making it in the media world against all odds.  Highlights:  "I had one goal in mind, and my goal was I was going to stay here. And I was either going to work at MTV or something in the entertainment business. I just didn't know what yet." "The bigger the problem you solve, the more money will follow. So don't worry about money, just worry about where the problem is and how can I fix it." "What we go through today is not nearly an iota of what they had to go through. It's almost laughable when people say, 'Well, how did you do it?' It's like, I got up every day, I worked really hard. I did not accept no for an answer." Timestamps: 00:21 - Dreaming Big from a Young Age 01:00 - A Happy Accident in Virginia 09:31 - The Unexpected Call from MTV 17:41 - Breaking into Daytime TV 19:44 - A Decade at E! 22:15 - A Behind-the-Scenes Look 26:37 - Drawing Strength from Immigrant Roots 30:17 - Solving Problems and Adding Value 34:25 - From MTV to Hosting on Hallmark 39:10 - Promoting Positivity and Self-Care on TV

Challenges, Passion, and Building a Legacy with Chuck Walton

Welcome to a new episode of Built to Win, where we sit down with Chuck Walton. From his humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in sports entertainment, Chuck shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the passion that drives him. Get ready to be inspired by his dedication to legacy, community, and personal growth. Whether you're looking for motivation or just a good story, this episode has something for everyone! Highlights: "Find your passion and make it your purpose. Find something to live for, find something to die for." "I just want people to know that I'm just about peace and positivity." "We are all built to win." Timestamps: 00:05 - Introduction to Chuck Walton 10:15 - Overcoming the Pandemic 20:30 - The Legacy of the Waltons 27:45 - Turning Passion into Purpose 31:13 - Breakthrough Moment with the Warriors 36:50 - The Power of Authentic Relationships 41:04 - Navigating the Entertainment Industry 44:52 - Mentorship and Influences 47:15 - Advice for Dark Times 49:33 - Where to Find Chuck Walton