This is first of many shows of Lil Mel.

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As we walk the basepaths of life, the steps we take with our friends and mentors remain imprinted in the dirt behind us. On my latest podcast, I was joined by John Vodenlich, the lauded UW Whitewater Warhawks Baseball team coach, who's rounding the bases to the National Coaches Hall of Fame. Our conversation, rich with nostalgia from our Racine roots, delved into John's extraordinary career, his embrace of humility in the spotlight, and the steadfast connections that keep our lives intertwined despite the whirlwind of social media and public acclaim.

John cracked open his playbook on leadership, sharing the secret sauce behind fostering a self-motivated team culture and the vital role of intrinsic motivation. We peeled back the layers of what it takes to steer a team to victory and the nuanced art of empathetic decision-making. The journey is not just about scoring runs; it's about the weight of releasing players and guiding them to their next opportunity, all while maintaining the delicate balance between high standards and compassionate leadership.

Our banter rounded third with reflections on chasing purpose in our careers, the importance of rolling with life's curveballs, and the joy found in the intersections of work, family, and personal passions. John's story is a home run of insights on finding equilibrium amidst the demanding schedules that come with coaching and the warmth of having a supportive family cheering you on, both from the stands and at home. Tune in, warm up your heartstrings, and get ready to be inspired by a man whose life lessons extend far beyond the diamond.

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Embark on an emotional ride with Adrian Winston, my nephew and co-founder of the Live Above Clothing Company and Winston Automotive. Our conversation takes you behind the scenes of his entrepreneurial quest, where dreams and family legacy intertwine, creating an empire that spans from detail shops in Wisconsin to the bustling dealership lots in Georgia. Adrian recounts how the dreams and determination of my late brother-in-law, Bobby Winston, sparked our generational passion for automobiles—a legacy carried on with pride and dedication.

In a heartfelt exchange, I delve into the lessons of leadership learned from fraternity life and the ways personal hardships have shaped the mission of his brands. Adrian and I reflect on the honor of Nashville's "Top 30 under 30," and the life-changing decision to move to Atlanta—a testament to the enduring influence of family guidance and the adaptability that's essential in the fast-paced world of business. We open up about the profound moments of seeking wisdom from our loved ones, underscoring the strength we've drawn from our family roots through every challenge and success.

As we round out our discussion, Adrian and I touch on the ethos of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the relentless pursuit of excellence and the balance of empathy in leadership. We inspire others to seize opportunities, take risks, and cherish the supportive relationships that make the entrepreneurial journey all the richer. Through our stories of overcoming adversity and pushing beyond comfort zones, we hope to motivate you to chase your dreams with the same fervor that has propelled our family legacy forward. Join us for a narrative that celebrates not just the milestones of success, but the profound connections that fuel our ambitions and fulfill our lives.

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