Chris Niemeyer and Michael McGreevy found themselves in a predicament faced by many men; How to excel at work without neglecting their responsibilities at home? It was a balancing act that seemed to demand all or nothing. However, instead of succumbing to the notion of incompatibility between the two, they decided to challenge it.

Their paths intersected during a meet at Dan Miller's mastermind group. There, they discovered a shared struggle and a shared belief - it is possible to be a devoted family man and a successful businessman. Chris, has a keen business acumen, with a knack for setting up supportive frameworks for entrepreneurs. Meanwhile his Pacific Northwest heart cherishes family time. This makes him adept at realizing the importance of balance in a working professional's life. Similarly, Michael, a proud Buffalo native, brings extensive experience in business and an even greater dedication to his family, understands the want to excel in both walks of life. Thus, The Forge was born, a community aimed at supporting men in their dual journey of family and work.

The Forge has become a haven for men to express their struggles, share their victories, and learn from each other, all in the pursuit of a harmonious balance between family and work. The idea was sprung from seeing a need for companionship and support for men navigating the tightrope walk between work and family. Their collective mission with The Forge is to help men enjoy fulfilling relationships with their families whilst also thriving professionally.

"Often it's up to you to make the decision that changes your own life."

Ray Edwards was a copywriter and marketer at the top of his game. But in 2011, his life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. As the disease progressed, he found himself in constant pain, unable to walk, and even contemplating suicide. Despite trying various treatments, nothing seemed to work.

After much reflection he found himself considering that key to living well, even with his circumstances, was to change his mindset. He realized that he had the power within himself to change his mindset and live a fulfilling life despite his diagnosis. Drawing upon his skills as a persuader, Ray crafted a raw, compelling sales letter to himself, outlining the reasons to live and the purpose he could find in his life. The letter was the catalyst for him to undergo a transformative brain surgery called Deep Brain Stimulation. The surgery improved his symptoms significantly, and he was able to once again enjoy life.

Ray's story serves as a powerful testament to the importance of living with intention and finding purpose in even the most challenging situations. Intentional living can transform even the most challenging situations. Take a listen to our conversation to get a glimpse into how he guides others on their own journey to live a meaningful life aligned with their values. His passionate advocacy for intentional living makes him a truly inspiring guest.

Connect with Ray

Order the Book Read This or Die

https://rayedwards.com/podcast-archives/

Ray Edwards Website

Connect with Jody

www.jodymaberry.com

About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/

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LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry

Episode Highlights

00:03:35 - The Sales Letter That Saved Ray's Life

00:08:03 - Deep Brain Stimulation

00:09:30 - Making a Change

00:12:32 - Starting from a Place of Strength and Happiness

00:14:10 - Change Through Education, Experience, and Exposure

00:16:15 - Self-Awareness and Doing Your Best

00:18:04 - Remembering Your Mortality

00:23:46 - Writing the Story of Your Life

00:25:06 - Your Life is a Story

00:26:37 - Vulnerability in the Book

00:27:25 - Making a Change

00:28:07 - Gratitude and Closing

"You become the average of the five people you spend the most intentional time with."

Ray Edwards is a well-respected copywriter and author who is known for his expertise in creating powerful biographical narratives for entrepreneurs. His recent participation in the Creating Magic Mastermind event has added another feather to his cap. The mastermind events with Lee Cockerell in Orlando Florida are always a wonderful time. The days were full of invaluable insights from participants of many different industries and walks of life.

It was clear that Ray's depth of knowledge and empathetic approach were greatly appreciated by all in attendance at the event. It only made sense to then invite him to the podcast for a conversation so he can further share his experience. During our conversation, Ray shares how he has transformed his personal and professional growth by attending the Creating Magic Mastermind event.

In this episode, you will:

• Explore takeaways from the Creating Magic Mastermind event and how they can change your life

• Learn how mentors can contribute to your personal and professional journey

• Understand the significance of cultivating a community for authentic connections

• Adopt the skill of incorporating feedback to enhance your capabilities

• Combine introspection and practical implementation for optimum growth

Take a listen to hear Ray's perspective on the impact of attending events such as Creating Magic Masterminds. If you aren't able to attend one in person, consider expanding your peer group by joining a virtual Mastermind group or community.

Make sure to share this episode with anyone else that is considering attending an event like Creating Magic Masterminds so they can discover the impact they will have on your personal and professional growth.

"Being an author takes you places that you don't expect to get."

David Hancock, founder of Morgan James Publishing, and Karen Anderson, associate publisher, are the dynamic duo of the publishing world. Their passion is helping authors create transformative, engaging books. During our conversation we talk about their collaborated to launch Magic Press, a publishing imprint that focuses on authors with a background in theme parks and magical experiences. Both of them have worked closely with many authors to share their expertise and stories. They are an incredibly valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and writers looking to make an impact through the written word.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Uncover the advantages of writing a book for business-minded individuals
• Examine the domino effect an author's written work has on their professional standing and influence
• Dive into the world of storytelling and its profound effect on a reader's psyche
• Investigate Magic Press's unique dedication to authors inspired by theme park experiences.
• Get the inside scoop on the resources and support provided by Magic Press to aspiring authors

Magic Press, the imprint of Morgan James Publishing, was created to showcase the unique stories of entrepreneurs and authors. Make sure to listen to this episode as we discuss the power of writing a book and how Magic Press supports authors in the writing and publishing process. 

Connect with Morgan James Publishing

David Hancock 

Karen Anderson

Morgan James Publishing website

Morgan James Radio Podcast

Morgan James Publishing Twitter

Morgan James Publishing LinkedIn

Morgan James Publishing Facebook

Connect with Jody

www.jodymaberry.com

About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry

Episode Highlights

00:02:48 - What is Magic Press?

00:07:53 - Why Write a Book at the End of Your Career?

00:11:59 - The Power of Storytelling

00:14:59 - The Power of a Book

00:17:22 - Overcoming Writing Obstacles

00:18:39 - The Magic of a Book

00:20:23 - Magic Press and the Book Publishing Process

00:21:59 - The Power of Publishing with Magic Press