In this episode of Breakthrough 180, host Neal DiPentino sits down with Rick Franzo, a nationally recognized business coach and three-time brain tumor survivor, for a raw and inspiring conversation about survival, identity, and entrepreneurship.

Rick shares how a backyard barbecue in May 2009 led to a life-altering diagnosis:

“You have less than two weeks to live.”

From that moment on, his life changed forever—culminating in 10.5 hours of brain surgery, paralysis, and a recovery doctors called a miracle.

This is more than a comeback story. It’s a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and turning pain into purpose.

In this powerful conversation, you'll hear:

• The exact moment his symptoms began while playing horseshoes
• How he walked out of rehab in 46 days despite doctors’ doubts
• His journey into entrepreneurship with The Growth Coach after being seen as “untouchable” in the job market
• The emotional and psychological toll of surviving, but feeling "broken"
• Why empathy, not just strategy, is his greatest asset as a coach
• How he teaches clients to “help themselves help themselves”

🎤 Podcast Quote:

“Hope isn't necessarily strategy, but it is tangible.”

🎧 If you've ever felt stuck in life or business, this episode will show you the way forward—from someone who's been there.

Connect with Rick Franzo:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-franzo-52948b26/
• Website: https://www.thegrowthcoach.com/poconos/
• Podbean: https://businessandbraintumortalk.podbean.com/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rickfranzo3549

Connect with Neal DiPentino:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-dipentino-73149ba/
• Website: https://tmxcreative.com/
• Podbean: https://breakthrough180.podbean.com/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tmx-creative

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