Austin Hatch: From Tragedy to Triumph with Grit, Faith, and an Unstoppable Purpose
Austin Hatch is the embodiment of resilience and relentless growth. Surviving not one, but two tragic plane crashes that claimed the lives of his immediate family members, Austin defied the odds and went on to earn a Division 1 basketball scholarship at the University of Michigan. Guided by unwavering faith, a steadfast commitment to his family, and a mindset forged in adversity, Austin now shares his journey and his "GRIT" framework as a sought-after motivational speaker. Honoring those he lost, Austin is dedicated to helping others thrive in the face of adversity and to leaving people and places better than he found them. Takeaways: Purpose is Everything: Austin emphasizes the importance of having a “because” that’s bigger than yourself—his family is his deeper purpose and what keeps him moving forward even during life’s toughest moments. GRIT is a Daily Discipline: Success over the long term is built on daily decisions to show up with growth, resilience, integrity, and a team-first mentality. Austin’s GRIT framework turns adversity into opportunity. Gratitude and Action Go Hand-in-Hand: Practicing gratitude is a conscious choice that can’t coexist with negativity. Pairing this mindset with urgent, intentional action creates real, lasting impact. Sound Bites: “If it’s just for us, we’ll probably throw in the towel, give up. But if we remember that greater purpose, that why...we’ll always be willing to do what it takes to overcome.” “It’s impossible to be truly grateful and very negative at the same time. Those two emotions can’t coexist.” “You may not be the best on the team, but you can be your best for the team.” Quote by Mick: “If you’re not getting better, you’re falling way behind, right?” Connect & Discover Austin: Website: https://austin-hatch.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-hatch-530727a6/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austin.j.hatch/ Website: Players for Good FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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38:43
Adora Crystal Evans: From Self-Development to Media Powerhouse and Visionary Leader
Adora Crystal Evans is a visionary media powerhouse, executive producer, and host who is redefining collaboration and empowerment for women in entrepreneurship. As the mastermind behind the Diva Network and host of Dining Divas Texas and Destination Divas TV, Adora champions financial, spiritual, emotional, and physical sovereignty for women—always in partnership with supportive men. With over 20 years in the self-development and media industries, including roles with Napoleon Hill Institute and key events alongside legends like Les Brown, Adora's story is all about strategic alliances, elevating women, and building authentic, joy-centered connections that lead to quantum leaps in personal and professional growth. Takeaways: Strategic alliances and authentic relationships collapse time: Adora reveals the power of forging just a handful of deep, meaningful connections to fast-track growth, both personally and professionally. Empowering women through collaboration, not isolation: Her journey is rooted in elevating women—financially, spiritually, and personally—within supportive networks that also include men as key allies. Leadership evolution comes from service and community: Adora’s leadership philosophy has evolved from individual achievement to amplifying the voices and visions of others, especially as the Diva Network expands to global impact, notably throughout Africa. Sound Bites: “You only need one to four major connections that can really collapse time.” “Mentorship isn’t just what you’re told—it's what you catch from how your mentors show up in the world.” “Being a connected person is about genuinely seeing people—whether you’re in the boardroom or at the grocery store.” Quote by Mick: “As leaders… we’re not teaching people the right thing. And so I personally believe as leaders and also I think for you too, with women, like really mentoring this next generation.” Connect & Discover Adora: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adorasgroove/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adora-evans/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adoracrystalevans/ Website: https://adoracrystal.com/ Book: Majestic Money: The 30-Day Femme Manifesting Game FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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46:58
Sabina Nawaz: Why Pressure, Not Power, Shapes Effective Leadership
Sabina Nawaz is a powerhouse executive coach and leadership strategist who has helped leaders from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups transform their mindsets and unlock their leadership potential. With over 25 years of experience—including a pivotal management role at Microsoft—Sabina blends emotional intelligence with practical tools to help leaders manage pressure, communicate authentically, and embrace continuous growth. As an author and sought-after speaker, her candid insights encourage leaders to move beyond comfort zones, embrace vulnerability, and create a positive, lasting impact on their teams and organizations. Takeaways: Authenticity is Multifaceted: Sabina emphasizes that authenticity isn’t singular—leaders need to adapt to their circumstances and roles, using authenticity as a guide for growth rather than an excuse to avoid change. Pressure and Power Dynamics Matter: She explains that it’s not just power, but pressure, that often corrupts behavior in leaders. Managing both is essential, and pressure can either define or refine leadership, depending on how it’s handled. Communication and Vulnerability Win Trust: The most effective leaders are those who communicate clearly, align their words and body language, and aren’t afraid to express vulnerability. This builds stronger connections and lifelong loyalty among teams. Sound Bites: “Pressure doesn’t have to define you. It can refine you—just like pressure builds diamonds.” “Authenticity, when used as an excuse for not changing, actually prevents growth. We have multiple authentic selves, depending on our roles.” “If you’re a leader, arrange your face before you walk into that meeting. Your resting face carries more weight than you think.” Quote by Mick: "I tell leaders, if there’s one habit that you can have today, it’s presence. And presence for your team is going to mean something different for all the individuals that you lead or that you manage. And you got to understand how to be present for them." Connect & Discover Sabina: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabinanawaz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabinacoaching/ Website: https://sabinanawaz.com/ Book: You’re The Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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31:53
Matt Britton: How AI's Breakneck Speed is Transforming the Future of Work and Life
Welcome to the electrifying world of “Mick Unplugged,” where the visionary grip on the pulse of future tech meets the influential vibes of a maverick rapper. This episode is a whirlwind journey with Mick Hunt and his guest, AI innovator Matt Britton, diving into the future of artificial intelligence and its society-shifting ripple effects. As they break down cutting-edge breakthroughs and personal insights, they shine a light on the daunting yet thrilling road humans and machines will trek together. Prepare to be blown away by visionary conversations that inspire and intrigue, all packed into this not-to-miss episode. Key Takeaways: Understanding AI's Layers: Matt Britton elaborates on the foundational layers of AI, including the essential role of large language models, data, and application in consumer technology like chatbots. AI's Impact on Employment: AI is set to revolutionize human labor, with roles in customer service and other repetitive tasks increasingly being overtaken by efficient AI solutions. Navigating Future Challenges: Britton highlights the importance of adapting skills for an AI-driven future, focusing on creativity and critical problem-solving as key abilities for staying relevant. Sound Bites: "AI is moving so fast, it’s hard for even the most technically forward professionals to keep their finger on the pulse of where things are at." "If you aren’t using AI and really using your humans to connect with humans, you’re missing the boat." "Education systems need to pivot because memorizing and regurgitating information is becoming meaningless in the age of AI." Quote by Mick (Host): "If you aren't using AI and if you aren’t allowing your humans to connect with humans, then you're missing the boat." Connect & Discover With Matt: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbbritton/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbrittonnyc/ Website: https://mattbritton.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-speed-of-culture-podcast/id1617896513 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvP9cnX9BYYRoLQzyo_i35g Book: Generation AI FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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27:48
Quincy Avery Breaks Down True Leadership On and Off the Field
Quincy Avery is known as the “QB Whisperer,” shaping the next generation of NFL stars and redefining the quarterback position both on and off the field. Starting his journey with nothing but a dream, a car, and an unshakeable belief in building greatness from scratch, Quincy’s story is one of relentless perseverance through adversity, including nights of homelessness and countless setbacks. As the founder of QB Takeover and subject of the new documentary The Quincy Avery Effect (streaming on Hulu), Quincy is dedicated not just to developing elite athletes, but to building better men through authentic mentorship, leadership, and community impact. His influence reaches far beyond the gridiron, empowering young men at every level to overcome obstacles, embrace leadership, and live life “like a quarterback.” Takeaways: Leadership is a Mindset, Not Just a Role: Quincy believes the attributes of a great quarterback—resilience, adaptability, and uplifting those around you—are essential to leadership in business, life, and beyond. Adversity Builds Strength: True greatness comes not from talent alone, but from persevering through setbacks, learning from failure, and refusing to give up when faced with challenges. Create Your Own Impact: Quincy’s mission extends past football; he seeks to transform lives by instilling character, providing opportunity, and building ecosystems where everyone can grow and win. Sound Bites: “I want people to live their life like a quarterback, because the way quarterbacks move and operate—they bring people along, they galvanize a team—and those are things we all can do every single day.” “The journey that I went on was crazy. I’ve had a thousand nights of homelessness... but my ability to work hard despite the initial outcome is what separated me.” “The first things I want to do is have a conversation with the parents. The biggest determining factor in the kids who I see are successful and the kids who I see aren’t—is their parents.” Quote by Mick: "You’ve got to take yourself serious because most people aren’t going to.” Connect & Discover Quincy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quincyavery/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/quincy-avery-293ab036/ QB Takeover: https://www.qbtakeover.com/ The Avery Effect Foundation: https://www.qbtakeover.com/the-avery-effect-foundation Documentary: The Quincy Avery Effect (Hulu) FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Mick Unplugged" is a transformative podcast that challenges listeners to move beyond the conventional 'Why' and embrace the empowering realm of 'Because.' Hosted by Mick Hunt, the voice of Modern Leadership, this podcast is designed for leaders, doers, and anyone aspiring to create meaningful impact in both their personal and professional lives.
Each episode delves into the principles of Modern Leadership, focusing on discovering your 'Because'—your core driving force—and how it can turn dreams into reality and aspirations into actionable steps. With practical advice, real-life stories, and forward-thinking insights, you’ll learn to make your 'Because' a daily focus, fueling your journey toward success and fulfillment.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your motivation, set meaningful goals, or apply modern leadership theories to overcome challenges, "Mick Unplugged" provides the tools, strategies, and insights to guide your path. Subscribe now and start transforming your life with purpose and modern leadership principles.