What does it really take to build long-lasting wealth, become financially free, and lead a fulfilling life? On this episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with Jay Bass, Vice President of Finance at Rise Family Office, to break down the principles of strategic investing, building authentic relationships, and developing a growth-focused mindset.

Jay shares how anyone—whether you're an entrepreneur, professional athlete, or just starting out—can build a blueprint for financial success by leveraging compound interest, authentic networking, and calculated risk-taking. From developing your personal “superpower” to navigating misinformation and economic uncertainty, this episode is packed with insights that will transform the way you think about wealth, fulfillment, and your personal legacy.

Whether you're ready to take control of your finances, build meaningful connections, or lead with purpose—this episode delivers the roadmap.

✨ 5 Key Highlights:

1. Wealth Isn’t an Accident – Learn how compounding, clarity, and consistency drive long-term wealth and how to define your version of financial freedom.

2. Due Diligence Beats FOMO – Jay unpacks how to vet investment deals and avoid being burned by rushing into “too good to be true” opportunities.

3. Authentic Networking Over Shallow Name-Dropping – Why building deep, trustworthy relationships always beats chasing clout.

4. Your Superpower is the Shortcut – Discover how monetizing your unique skillset accelerates success far faster than following someone else’s path.

5. Discipline Over Motivation – Jay shares why daily consistency, not bursts of inspiration, is the key to lasting achievement in money, health, and legacy.

   
   

   🕒 Timestamped Summary:

   • 💰 00:00 – Jay Bass shares insights on wealth management, investing, and relationship building, emphasizing the importance of understanding goals, monetizing unique skills, and starting to save and invest early for long-term financial stability.

   • 💼 20:56 – When making large investments or financial deals, it's crucial to verify terms, assemble a trusted advisory team, and build deep relationships to mitigate risk and ensure success.

   • 💼 42:35 – Jay Bass emphasizes authenticity, trust, and relatability in networking and building a personal brand, especially when working with high-profile clients or celebrities.

   • 💡 56:27 – Jay Bass shares key entrepreneurial insights, including developing a growth mindset, becoming a technician and leader, and leveraging networking and AI tools to succeed.

   • 🤔 01:09:37 – Jay Bass discusses the misinformation spread by media, the importance of critical thinking, and opportunities for building wealth amidst current economic conditions.

   • 💸 01:22:32 – Building lasting wealth requires being strategic with finances, prioritizing long-term rewards over short-term comfort, and having discipline to stay focused on goals.

   • 💡 01:36:41 – Jay Bass shares insights on finding fulfillment, embracing unique strengths, and learning from experiences to build wealth and success.

   • 💡 02:01:46 – Jay Bass discusses his approach to leadership, mindset, and wealth, while criticizing the US healthcare system and big pharma, emphasizing the importance of being a good person and having a positive mindset.

   
   

On this episode of Common Cents The Podcast, host Garrett Reed sits down with Bill Pasha, a media and marketing legend with over 40 years of experience leading companies, building brands, and shaping stories. From the golden era of Top 40 radio to today’s algorithm-driven digital world, Bill takes us on a journey through the evolution of media, the rise of influencers, and the timeless value of relationships and authenticity.

Whether you're in marketing, entertainment, or just trying to understand how influence really works today—this episode is a masterclass in wisdom, creativity, and connection.

🔑 Five Key Highlights:

1. 📻 From Radio to Rogan: How the media industry evolved from personality-driven radio to digital content ruled by algorithm and influence.

2. 🎤 The Power of Authentic Influence: Why people like Howard Stern and Joe Rogan have captivated millions by staying true to themselves.

3. 🤝 Relationship Capital: Bill breaks down “net networking” and the art of hand-written notes to build relationships that matter.

4. 📚 Timeless Wisdom: Lessons from books like Outwitting the Devil and How to Win Friends and Influence People that still shape modern business success.

5. 🎵 Creativity Unplugged: Bill’s “Beyond the Amplifiers” project and why storytelling through music may be the truest expression of humanity.

   
   

⏱ Timestamped Summary:

• 📺 00:00 Bill Pasha introduces his 40+ year career in media, marketing, and entrepreneurship, sharing stories from his time with CBS, Entercom, and beyond.

• 📻 10:06 Reflecting on the golden era of Top 40 radio and the shift to today’s more transactional, ad-driven content.

• 📻 19:59 Bill recalls how radio led in real-time communication during 9/11 and why it still matters in moments of crisis.

• 📻 35:48 The impact of corporate influence on media content and why integrity and authenticity are more important than ever.

• 💡 51:03 Why treating people with respect and standing by your convictions is the real path to influence and success.

• 📺 01:10:46 Bill discusses how his firm helps brands and restaurants grow through investor connections, branding, and customer insight.

• 📚 01:32:17 Life lessons on investing early, building human connection through hand-written notes, and the underrated art of listening.

• 🎙️ 01:47:44 Garrett and Bill wrap with stories on creativity, podcasting, and the future of meaningful conversations.

In this high-impact episode of Common Cents The Podcast, host Garrett Reed sits down with Connor Scribner, Co-Founder and President of Trinity Valley Plumbing, to uncover how a former competitor turned close ally used 15+ years of construction experience to redefine the trades through clear communication, elite execution, and fearless leadership.

From managing labor costs and language barriers to building a culture that retains top talent in a labor-short industry, Connor shares hard-earned lessons in estimating, project delivery, employee development, and mentorship.

This conversation is a masterclass for anyone in construction, business ownership, or skilled trades, and a compelling reminder that relationships, resilience, and clarity always win.

🔑 Five Highlights from the Episode:

1️⃣ 📣 Communication Wins Jobs: How Trinity Valley Plumbing separates from the competition through elite execution and proactive communication.
2️⃣ 🔧 Recession-Proof Strategy: Why focusing on essential trades like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical builds a durable business foundation.
3️⃣ 🧠 Mentorship & Leadership: How Connor finds growth through mentors and builds future leaders inside his team.
4️⃣ 👷‍♂️ Building Culture: Daily check-ins, value-driven leadership, and team accountability drive both retention and results.
5️⃣ ⚖️ Balance & Legacy: The importance of family time, personal development, and keeping your word—especially when no one is watching.

⏱ Timestamped Summary:

• 💼 00:00 Connor Scribner shares 15 years of construction experience, focusing on honest communication, estimating, and building trusted relationships.

• 💼 22:47 From college disconnection to construction passion, Connor reflects on finding purpose, design-build dreams, and a 10-year marriage.

• 💼 38:08 His experience during crisis moments at Matrix helped him identify the skilled trade labor gap and inspired the creation of Trinity Valley Plumbing.

• 💼 58:38 Connor discusses the power of mentorship, networking, and solving challenges with supportive people in both business and life.

• 💼 01:11:28 The future of trades: Connor’s call to action for those who want to learn, lead, and grow in high-demand skilled professions.

• 💼 01:28:37 Insight into estimating, labor allocation, and combining business acumen with technical knowledge for operational success.

• 💼 01:38:56 Using technology and systems to prioritize well-being and achieve better work-life balance for the team.

• 🤣 01:51:33 Wild stories from construction sites and firefighting shifts, plus a challenge to take bold risks and bet on your network.

In this inspiring episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with Rene Salinas, a dynamic leader whose journey from earning his real estate license at 18 to becoming a senior program manager working with NASA is packed with lessons in grit, networking, and personal growth.

Rene reveals how leveraging relationships, taking calculated risks, and embracing lifelong learning have shaped his career across real estate, IT, AV integration, and beyond. From historic home restoration to building healthy habits and fostering a growth mindset, Rene shares actionable insights for anyone looking to level up personally and professionally.

Whether you’re climbing the career ladder, restoring a fixer-upper, or aiming for peak fitness, this episode delivers practical wisdom and motivation!

🔑 Five Highlights from the Episode:

1️⃣ 🚀 From Real Estate to NASA: How grit, networking, and risk-taking propelled Rene’s career from a teenage licensee to leading projects with NASA.
2️⃣ 💼 The Power of Relationships: Why adding value without expecting immediate returns opens doors to life-changing opportunities.
3️⃣ 🏛️ Patience Pays Off: Lessons from restoring a historic home and the importance of attention to detail and communication.
4️⃣ 🏋️‍♂️ Healthy Habits for Success: How fitness, accountability, and nutrition transformed Rene’s productivity and well-being.
5️⃣ 🙏 Growth Mindset & Gratitude: How surrounding yourself with like-minded people and practicing daily gratitude fuels long-term success.

⏱ Timestamped Summary:

• 💡 00:00 Rene Salinas shares his journey from real estate at 18 to NASA program manager, stressing perseverance, trade school value, and trusted business partnerships.

• 💼 10:48 The importance of networking, adaptability, and giving 110% effort in overcoming challenges and driving career growth.

• 💼 24:09 How leveraging LinkedIn connections led to NASA opportunities and leadership roles at Diversified.

• 💼 38:06 Taking calculated risks, navigating industry shifts, and restoring a historic home with patience and strategic planning.

• 🏋️‍♂️ 01:01:56 Building healthy habits to improve well-being, productivity, and overall life balance.

• 🏋️‍♂️ 01:20:25 Prioritizing diet, accountability, and the right workout structure for fitness success.

• 💡 01:35:25 The role of gratitude, mentorship, and cold plunge therapy in personal and professional growth.

• 💡 01:52:20 Life lessons on perseverance, intentional living, and the importance of loved ones and simple joys.

In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with Bill Escanlar, a true Dallas icon with over 35 years of service industry experience. From the bustling bars of Dallas to life lessons that transcend the counter, Bill shares the wisdom, humor, and hard-earned truths that have defined his journey.

Bill reveals how the service industry shapes character, teaches empathy, and builds lifelong connections. From unforgettable encounters with sports legends to navigating personal health scares, Bill’s story is a masterclass in resilience, humility, and the power of genuine relationships. Whether you’re in hospitality, sales, or simply looking to live with more heart, this episode is filled with lessons that hit home.

🔥 Five Highlights from the Episode:

1. 🍹 Lessons from 35 Years Behind the Bar: Bill reflects on how the service industry teaches respect, multitasking, and building real connections.

2. 👥 From Celebs to Regulars: Why conversations with people like Charles Haley and Jerry Rice mattered more than any autograph.

3. 👥 The Secret to a Loyal Customer Base: Creating a family atmosphere, paying attention to details, and making everyone feel welcome.

4. 💪 Health Wake-Up Calls: Bill’s alarming heart health crisis that led to life-saving changes and a new focus on wellness.

5. 🤣 Stories, Pranks, and Personal Growth: From championship mojito pranks to navigating loss, Bill’s anecdotes blend humor with heartfelt wisdom.

   
   

   ⏱ Timestamped Summary:

• 🍹 00:00 Bill Escanlar opens up about his 35-year bartending career, life stories, and passion for podcasting, sharing lessons from Dallas’s service industry.

• 👥 22:10 Genuine encounters with sports icons like Charles Haley and Jerry Rice taught Bill more about character than any media narrative ever could.

• 👥 33:49 How creating a welcoming, family-like bar environment and focusing on details builds loyal customers and a supportive team.

• 👥 47:09 The importance of supporting small businesses, nurturing community ties, and building authentic connections in the service world.

• 🤣 59:01 Bill shares humorous tales, personal reflections, and why self-care and respect are essential behind (and beyond) the bar.

• 💔 01:14:45 Coping with loss, prioritizing family time, and staying grounded during life’s toughest moments.

• 💪 01:29:43 Bill recounts his health scare—a 90% artery blockage—and the drastic lifestyle changes that helped him reclaim his health.

• 💪 01:43:29 The transformative impact of lifestyle changes on Bill’s well-being, plus his candid take on navigating fitness and health challenges.

In this power-packed episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with Jon Sansone, the legendary cold-call warrior with over 34 years in sales, bestselling author of Sales Warrior, and a true testament to grit, resilience, and reinvention.

From being $24K in debt and unemployed, battling depression in a small apartment, to becoming financially independent, Jon’s comeback story is one that every aspiring professional and seasoned sales rep needs to hear. With a degree in Advertising & Psychology, Jon combines mental insight with real-world tactics to teach the art of rapport, voicemail mastery, and selling across generations.

A proud Eagle Scout, history and music buff, and member of APEX, Jon pulls back the curtain on what truly drives long-term sales success—and how it’s less about the product and more about connection, mindset, and emotional intelligence.

🔥 Five Highlights from the Episode:

1. 💪 Rock Bottom to Financial Freedom: Jon shares how he went from broke and depressed to financially independent by mastering cold calls and committing to personal development.

2. 📞 The Power of the Perfect Voicemail: Discover how to use emotion, tone, and curiosity to leave voicemails that convert.

3. 🤝 People Buy People: Why personal connection, not pitch decks, wins the deal—and how to build rapport instantly.

4. 📚 Lessons from 150+ Books: Jon reveals timeless principles from leaders like Zig Ziglar, Napoleon Hill, and Chris Voss that shaped his career.

5. 🎯 Selling to Every Generation: Insights on demographic selling from an elder Gen X’er who’s mastered adapting to every age group in the buying cycle.

   
   

   ⏱ Timestamped Summary:

   • 💪 00:00 Jon Sansone opens up about his journey from rock bottom—$24K in debt and clinically depressed—to mastering sales and becoming financially independent.

   • 🌟 27:11 Strategies for managing depression, building professional confidence, and finding emotional balance while maintaining drive.

   • 🤝 43:56 Sales is a relationship game: why building trust, emotional connection, and being easy to do business with matters more than any script.

   • 🤝 58:13 Creating value through personal interaction, active listening, and follow-ups—how real sales pros stay memorable.

   • 🤝 01:14:29 Sales, like dating, hinges on emotional intelligence—Jon compares the two with uncanny insight.

   • 🤝 01:28:51 First impressions matter—tips on nailing your opener, mastering body language, and drawing people in authentically.

   • 🎭 01:57:35 Character, consistency, and storytelling are the secret weapons of great salespeople—and people in general.

   • 🔥 02:22:24 Wrapping up with Jon’s passion for music, emotional triggers, and creating high-energy atmospheres for personal growth.

On this powerhouse episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with Jason Nemes, the electrifying entrepreneur, bestselling author of The Code of Behavior, TEDx speaker, and founder of Summit Roofing & Construction. From surviving a heart attack on Easter Sunday 2021 to becoming a high-performance leader with 6% body fat and a supercar in the garage, Jason’s story is proof that discipline, authenticity, and mindset can rewrite your life script—no matter where you start.

A staple in the health & wellness space and a respected leader in personal development, Jason drops unfiltered wisdom on building seven-figure businesses, sustaining peak fitness, navigating relationships, and reverse engineering success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, high-performer, or simply trying to take the next step in your personal journey, this conversation is loaded with the mindset hacks, habits, and heart you didn’t know you needed.

🔥 Five Highlights from the Episode:

1. 💔 From Death to Discipline: After flatlining from a heart attack, Jason shares how it became the ultimate wake-up call to transform his health, lifestyle, and leadership approach.

2. 📈 Reverse Engineering Success: Learn how Jason builds unstoppable momentum by working backward from big goals, holding his team accountable, and living by non-negotiable standards.

3. 👥 The Power of Proximity: He explains why your inner circle is either your parachute or your anchor—and how aligning with believers changed his life.

4. 🎯 Purpose Over Pressure: Why true growth begins when you focus on goal-achieving activities, not just stress-relieving ones.

5. 🧠 The Real Code of Behavior: Jason breaks down the principles behind his bestselling book and how authenticity, faith, and self-discipline are the foundation for personal and financial transformation.

• 
  

  ⏱ Timestamped Summary:

  
  

  💪 00:00 Jason kicks off with his origin story—growing up in Plano, building mental resilience, and how a relentless work ethic propelled him into entrepreneurship.

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  🚀 18:51 A masterclass on authentic leadership, learning from peers, and holding yourself to non-negotiables to scale business and life.

• 
  

  💔 31:21 Jason recalls his near-death experience from a heart attack and how it reshaped his perspective on faith, health, and purpose.

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  💪 47:44 The importance of consistency, clear communication, and using past failures as a blueprint for future wins.

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  🌱 01:06:03 Mentorship, morning routines, and surrounding yourself with those who call you to a higher standard.

• 
  

  🎨 01:31:07 From “Tatted Press” to business leader—Jason shares his thoughts on self-expression, real estate, and living unashamedly.

• 
  

  🏡 01:45:03 A well-rounded life is built on faith, fitness, family, and forward-thinking.

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  🌟 02:04:35 Closing wisdom on the human condition, emotional intelligence, and choosing logic over reaction for a life of impact.

  
  

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In this powerful episode of Common Cents The Podcast, Garrett Reed sits down with Super Bowl Champion and NFL veteran John Brandes, who now serves as VP of Customer Engagement for Maintenance Supply Solutions. From lining up as a tight end for the Washington Redskins to building winning teams in the multifamily industry, John shares the playbook for resilient leadership, meaningful mentorship, and personal growth.

With stories from Coach Joe Gibbs’ Bible studies at training camp to managing relationships in today’s construction world, Brandes reminds us that true success isn’t about titles—it’s about how you treat people. Whether you're in business, sports, or navigating life’s toughest transitions, this episode delivers real, raw, and relatable insights from a man who’s been at the top—and started over.

🔥 Five Highlights from the Episode:

1. 🏈 Transitioning with Purpose: From NFL stardom to entry-level sales, John Brandes proves the power of humility, work ethic, and starting from the bottom.

2. 👥 Leadership That Connects: Inspired by Coach Joe Gibbs, John shares why strong leadership starts with integrity, faith, and caring for your team—on and off the field.

3. 🤝 Relationships Over Revenue: In business and associations, it's not about the pitch—it's about people. Build trust, earn respect, and the rest will follow.

4. 💼 Culture Over Corporations: Competing with billion-dollar brands? John explains why customer service, culture, and consistency give smaller companies the edge.

5. 🌟 Life, Legacy & Love: After a near-death accident at 61, John’s commitment to gratitude, faith, and family shines through—reminding us to say “I love you” often and mean it.

   
   

   ⏱ Timestamped Summary:

• 🏈 00:00 John Brandes opens up about his journey from NFL tight end to sales leader, sharing lessons in perseverance and career reinvention.

• 🏈 19:30 Reflections on Coach Joe Gibbs’ leadership, evolving player safety in the NFL, and how character shaped John’s off-field life.

• 🏈 42:00 John breaks down how the grit and discipline of football prepared him for construction project management and business success.

• 🏗️ 53:44 From NFL retiree to multifamily sales pro—John discusses mentorship, family sacrifice, and rebuilding after big career transitions.

• 🤝 01:19:23 Leadership insights, accountability, and the value of promoting second-chance hires in creating a loyal, mission-driven workforce.

• 🏗️ 01:34:50 Navigating leadership shifts post-acquisition, the importance of humility, and how stress affects culture in a family-run business.

• 🌟 01:50:44 Conversations on company values, mental health for first responders, and raising kids with compassion, gratitude, and resilience.

• 🌟 02:10:58 Final takeaways: love deeply, lead boldly, and don’t wait to resolve conflict—because tomorrow isn’t promised.
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