From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller

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  TV Host Reveals How She Built Multiple 7-Figure Businesses 17.09.2026 1t 7min

  What do you do when everything you built gets taken from you in 22 minutes? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Summer Dey, an award-winning TV host and executive producer, six-time best-selling author, and two-time Comma Club Award recipient who equips leaders to communicate with bold faith and lead from their God-given identity. Summer has built and scaled multiple seven-figure businesses and is also a fierce advocate for victims of sex trafficking, having helped raise over six figures to support survivors. Summer opens up about the day her board of directors voted to strip away everything she'd built just weeks after a miscarriage and months before COVID would shut down another business she was building. She shares how that devastating betrayal, and the depression and PTSD that followed, ultimately became the turning point for an entirely new chapter: launching a coaching business in April 2020 that hit six figures in its first six months, publishing six best-selling books, and building a media and speaking brand from the ground up. What You'll Learn How forgiveness of others and of yourself became the tool that ended Summer's seizures and PTSD, and why she now offers a free course on it How an "accidental" Facebook Live to read the Bible together grew to over 6,700 women in a matter of weeks Why authenticity, even when it feels risky, is one of the most powerful tools in business and public speaking The difference between a "talker" and a true transformational speaker, and why nonverbal communication matters so much on stage Why Summer believes live events and real human connection will become even more valuable as AI reshapes media and content How she and her family sold nearly everything and spent three years traveling in an RV to 31 states after feeling called into ministry Why setting aside intentional time to rest and unplug is essential to avoid burnout, no matter how busy business gets How a single moment of loss and betrayal can redirect your entire path toward something greater Connect with Summer Dey Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesummerdey/?hl=e Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/FearIntoFaith/ Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. 📖 Underdog to Empire — Pre-Order the eBook Now Pat's new book — Underdog to Empire: Breaking Barriers and Building Businesses with Strength, Strategy and a Sense of Humor — is available for eBook pre-sale now. Widely available everywhere September 22, 2026. The story of how a girl who ate last at the dinner table built a construction company from a $100 bill. How she lost her husband and still got back up. How every person who tried to hold her back ended up building her up instead. 👉 Pre-order your copy now: www.patmiller.net 📩 Join the Underdog Community — Free Weekly Newsletter Every Tuesday, Pat sends a free weekly newsletter with: Episode recaps and key takeaways Exclusive content you won't find anywhere else Pat's personal thoughts on entrepreneurship, resilience, and building something real The Subscriber Exclusive — a personal question from Pat that doesn't appear anywhere else 👉 Subscribe free: www.patmiller.net/newsletter
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  The Mob,Vegas and the Law: Glenn Wichinsky's Untold Story 10.09.2026 52min

  What happens when you discover your father was a footnote in mob history and it's your own name in the index? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Glenn Wichinsky, a distinguished gaming and business law attorney licensed in Florida and Nevada and author of Things Left Unsaid: My Dad, The Mob, and Growing Up in the Nevada Gaming Industry. His memoir, recently featured at the London Book Fair, traces his journey to understanding the truth about his father, a man whose life intersected with organized crime, the early Nevada casino world, and the formative years of a now-global industry. Glenn shares the extraordinary story of stumbling on his father's name in a book by Danielle Gomes, daughter of a Nevada Gaming Control Board investigator, and how that discovery led him to review sealed FBI and military records that finally connected the dots on a lifetime of unanswered questions. He talks about growing up around unexplained moments and surveillance in a wedding parking lot, photos pulled from albums, warnings at customs, and how his father, despite his associations, worked hard to shield his son from that world entirely. What You'll Learn How Glenn uncovered his father's hidden past through a stranger's book and sealed archival records Why his father pushed him toward law and away from the family business How gaming law emerged as a brand-new legal specialty in the 1980s, and how Glenn became one of its pioneers The story of rebuilding his career and finances from scratch at 51 after an unexpected divorce, including running a casino in Laughlin, Nevada, while living in a $15-a-night motel How an unplanned pivot into international business and marketing became one of his greatest professional skills Why trusting your gut and acting on opportunity quickly matters more than overthinking it How the gaming industry has evolved from handshake deals to heavy regulation, and what problem gambling looks like in the online era Why Glenn now teaches gaming law and established a scholarship in his father's name for students entering the field   About Glenn Wichinsky Glenn Wichinsky is a distinguished gaming and business law attorney licensed in Florida and Nevada and the author of Things Left Unsaid: My Dad, The Mob, and Growing Up in the Nevada Gaming Industry, a memoir recently featured at the London Book Fair. Glenn originally set out to become a meteorologist before moving to Las Vegas to work alongside his father and later attended law school, where he went on to become one of the pioneers of gaming law as a legal specialty in the 1980s. His career has included running a casino in Laughlin, Nevada, serving as president of a gaming cabinet manufacturing company, and practicing gaming law with a national law firm. Glenn has been teaching gaming law and regulation as an adjunct professor at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, for nine years and established a scholarship in his father's name for students pursuing careers in gaming law.  Connect with Glenn Wichinsky LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-e-wichinsky-attorney-98b460 Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.  
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  From Hollywood sets to AI agent. One entrepreneur's underdog journey 03.09.2026 59min

  What do shoveling coal in Pittsburgh, working on the set of Ocean's Thirteen, and helping companies use AI have in common? They're all chapters in the story of Maury Rogow. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Maury Rogow, CEO of RIP Media Group and author of Sell Your Superpower in an AI World. Maury has produced over a thousand brand films, teaches more than a hundred thousand students on LinkedIn Learning, and has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Success Magazine.  Maury shares his winding path from a cold childhood in Pittsburgh to sales roles at AT&T and Lucent to helping build a startup that sold to Cisco for over a billion dollars, only to lose it all when the market crashed in 2001. That setback pushed him to reinvent himself, this time moving to Hollywood to work on major film sets before ultimately combining his sales background, storytelling instincts, and love of authenticity into the marketing and AI consulting work he does today. What You'll Learn Why the "underdog story" is one of the most powerful tools in sales and marketing How real, authentic storytelling helps businesses stand out instead of competing purely on price Why most people using AI are only scratching the surface and how to actually put it to work How to set up AI "projects" with clear rules, knowledge bases, and no fluff to get sharper, more useful answers Why businesses need to protect their intellectual property and privacy settings when using AI tools How live streaming and video add authenticity that helps entrepreneurs build trust with potential clients Why companies like Blockbuster and Borders failed to adapt and what business owners today can learn from it The importance of following up after losing a bid or deal to learn and improve, rather than taking it personally   About Maury Rogow  Maury Rogow is the CEO of RIP Media Group and the author of Sell Your Superpower in an AI World. He has produced over a thousand brand films and teaches more than a hundred thousand students through his LinkedIn Learning courses, with features in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Success Magazine. His path took him from sales roles at AT&T and Lucent, through a startup sale to Cisco, to working in Hollywood before shifting into marketing and AI consulting. He also serves as Chief Marketing Officer of the Applied AI Association. Connect with Maury Rogow  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mauryrogowofficial/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/MauryRogowOfficial/ Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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  Shark Tank Australia Survivor Builds a Multi 7 Figure Travel Empire 27.08.2026 41min

  What happens when you sell your house to bet on a travel business idea, survive the world's longest COVID lockdown, and still come out building a multi-seven-figure empire? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Lisa Pagotto, founder of Crooked Compass, an immersive travel company specializing in off-the-beaten-path destinations and experiences for fragile and emerging communities. Lisa is also a keynote speaker on leadership under pressure and a two-time Entrepreneur of the Year winner who gained national attention after appearing on Shark Tank Australia. Lisa walks through her surprising journey from corporate travel employee to founder, starting with a travel blog that built a loyal following before it ever became a business. She opens up about selling her house with her then-husband to fund Crooked Compass, her surreal 18-month journey to filming Shark Tank Australia, and how a 12-minute segment aired nearly two years later completely transformed her business overnight, even though she walked away with no deal and full ownership of her company. What You'll Learn How a "no deal" on Shark Tank still led to massive exposure, mentorship, and business growth   Why selling everything to bet on yourself isn't for everyone, but conviction and gut instinct matter.                                                                                                                                                     How Lisa rebuilt her business by launching private plane tours across Australia during the COVID lockdowns, after her original tourism business came to a complete halt.                                                                Why recognizing you're "stuck" is often the first step toward meaningful change The importance of taking small, actionable steps to build momentum instead of waiting for a perfect plan  Why compartmentalizing personal hardship (divorce, financial stress, single parenthood) while staying professional is a skill entrepreneurs have to learn How intuition and gut feeling have shaped major turning points in her business Why paying it forward and helping other entrepreneurs is part of the culture Lisa values most About Lisa Pagotto  Lisa Pagotto is the founder of Crooked Compass, an Australian travel company specializing in immersive tours to off-the-beaten-path destinations. She's also a keynote speaker on leadership under pressure and has built multiple seven-figure businesses. Lisa gained national attention on Shark Tank Australia, and though she walked away without a deal, the exposure sent her business into rapid growth. During Australia's COVID-19 lockdowns, she pivoted and launched a second business offering private plane tours. Since then, the business has expanded to bring American travelers to Australia for unique travel experiences. She has also been named Entrepreneur of the Year twice. Connect with Lisa Pagotto. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-pagotto?originalSubdomain=au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisapagotto Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.  
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  He Works for Someone Else But Thinks Like an Owner | Nicholas Verzicco 13.08.2026 56min

  Not every great career story starts with owning the company. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller switches things up to spotlight the other side of the journey building a name for yourself while working for someone else. Her guest is Nicholas Verzicco, who runs the construction management staffing division for New Jersey at Actalent (formerly Aerotech), placing hundreds of professionals with general contractors, subcontractors, and AEC firms. A five-time President's Club winner, Nicholas shares how a chance conversation with a former college classmate led him into an industry he never studied for recruiting and how he's built a thriving career in construction staffing just seven years out of college. Nicholas opens up about his path from Monmouth University, where he studied finance through the Educational Opportunity Fund program, to landing his first staffing role through a simple breakfast conversation and a willingness to take a chance on something unfamiliar. He and Pat dig into networking, mentorship, and what it really takes for young professionals to stand out in a competitive industry like construction. What You'll Learn Why networking and relationships can completely redirect your career path  How AI is being used (and not used) in construction staffing and estimating and why human trust still matters  Why "blue collar" skills remain valuable and future-proof, even in an AI-driven world  The importance of mentorship for the next generation entering the workforce  Why energy, effort, and enthusiasm can set you apart in any role  How giving back  through mentorship programs and organizations like Professional Women in Construction (PWC) helps open doors for the next generation  Why staying true to yourself and tuning out critics is essential to long-term success About Nicholas Verzicco Nicholas Verzicco runs the construction management staffing division for New Jersey at Actalent, where he places professionals including project managers, superintendents, assistant project managers, and estimators with general contractors, subcontractors, and AEC firms. He has placed hundreds of people in the industry and has won the President's Club for five consecutive years. Nicholas is originally from Mays Landing, New Jersey, and attended Monmouth University through the Educational Opportunity Fund program, earning a degree in finance while serving as president of his Student Government Association, senior class president, and president of the club lacrosse team. He entered the staffing industry through a college connection and has spent close to seven years building his career at Actalent. Outside of work, Nicholas is involved in mentorship, participating in a program for high school students through the Lena Harris Foundation and supporting organizations like Professional Women in Construction (PWC). Connect with Nicholas Verzicco LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-verzicco-76a404151/ Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more entrepreneurial insights, business strategies, and inspiring conversations with successful founders and business leaders. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs and professionals who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving careers and businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, career growth, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.  
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  Cut From the NBA, Built a Million-Dollar Coaching Empire 06.08.2026 54min

  Cut From the NBA, Built a Million-Dollar Coaching Empire What does it take to turn 60 rejections into a nine-year pro basketball career and then build an entirely new business from scratch? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Dre Baldwin, founder of Work On Your Game, a TEDx speaker, 43-time author, and former professional basketball player who spent nine years playing overseas. Dre shares how he went from a walk-on at a Division III college to building a company that helps entrepreneurs and experts install the mindset, systems, and strategy needed to scale from six to seven figures. Dre opens up about cold-calling 60 basketball agents and mailing VHS tapes of his footage just to land his first pro contract and how he started posting training videos on YouTube back in 2005, years before "influencer" was even a word. That early audience-building experience taught him lessons about ownership, platforms, and personal branding that still guide his business today. What You'll Learn Why being an underdog can actually be an execution advantage  How relationships and "tap-rooting" knowing someone who knows the right person open doors in business  The real difference between motivation and discipline, and why only one of them is repeatable  Why building on rented platforms (social media) means you don't actually own your audience  How relatability and authenticity build stronger connections than raw talent or fame  Why slowly transitioning clients to other team members protects a business built around one person  The importance of structure, self-discipline, and controlling distractions as your own boss About Dre Baldwin Dre Baldwin is the founder of Work On Your Game, a company that helps experts and entrepreneurs install the mindset, systems, and strategy needed to scale their businesses from six to seven figures. He's a TEDx speaker and a 43-time author. Before entrepreneurship, Dre spent nine years as a professional basketball player overseas, mostly in Europe, after walking on at the Division III college level. While still playing, he began posting training videos on YouTube back in 2005, building an audience that eventually extended beyond basketball players to professionals and entrepreneurs interested in his lessons on discipline, confidence, and mental toughness. In 2015, he stopped playing basketball to focus full-time on that mindset-driven business, moving through professional speaking before shifting into the consulting and coaching work he does today, centered on execution reliability and building presence and power in business.  Connect with Dre Baldwin. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dreallday/ Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more entrepreneurial insights, business strategies, and inspiring conversations with successful founders and business leaders. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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  Why Diversity Training Fails and What Actually Works. 29.07.2026 55min

  Why Diversity Training Fails and What Actually Works What happens when you've spent 30 years telling CEOs the truth nobody else will? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Mauricio Velasquez, president of Diversity Training Group (DTG) and author of the newly released book Tackling Toxicity: A Skills-Based Guide to Addressing Toxicity. Mauricio has trained, consulted, and coached over a million people across every U.S. state but one in a career spanning three decades. Mauricio opens up about starting his business on a houseboat in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, a $520-a-month setup with no insulation but a "billion-dollar view," and how growing up watching racism directed at his immigrant parents shaped his life's work. From there, he built a career doing the jobs nobody else wants to touch: sexual harassment training, executive coaching, and calling out toxic behavior that most companies would rather ignore. What You'll Learn  Why most people are conflict-averse and avoid addressing toxic behavior  and why that silence only makes it worse  The difference between responding and reacting when someone is being toxic or bullying  Why "soft skills" are actually the hardest skills to master, and why the label undersells them   How writing a book and speaking at conferences became a lead-generation engine for his consulting business  Why diversity and inclusion work is tied directly to business growth, market expansion, and staying competitive  Real, unfiltered stories from Mauricio's career from a car dealership salesman ignoring his wife, to a model home saleswoman questioning whether he could afford a house, to his own mother's initial rejection of his wife  Why he believes DEI work is set for a resurgence, even amid current industry headwinds About Mauricio Velasquez Mauricio Velasquez is the President of Diversity Training Group (DTG), a company he founded that is celebrating 30 years in business this year. Over the course of his career, he has trained, consulted, and coached more than a million people in every U.S. state except North Dakota. His work covers diversity and inclusion training, sexual harassment training, mentoring, and executive coaching, helping organizations and leaders address issues they'd often rather avoid. Mauricio is also the author of the newly released book Tackling Toxicity: A Skills-Based Guide to Addressing Toxicity, which draws on real stories from his three-decade career to teach practical, skills-based approaches for calling out toxic behavior in the workplace and beyond. He got his start in business working out of a houseboat in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, and his motivation for the work traces back to witnessing discrimination directed at his immigrant parents as a child.  Connect with Mauricio Velasquez  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauricio-velasquez-mba/ Website:  https://www.diversitydtg.com/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/mauricio.velasquez.9484/reels/ Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.
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  From Wall Street to Dog Walking Empire 22.07.2026 1t 5min

  From Wall Street to Dog Walking Empire  What happens when you walk away from a 22-year career on Wall Street to pursue something completely different? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, host Pat Miller sits down with Amanda Anderson, founder of Ring and Run Dog Walkers, to explore her remarkable transition from the fast-paced world of New York's Financial District to building one of Staten Island's premier dog walking businesses. Amanda shares how she recognized the changing landscape of Wall Street, started building her business while still employed, and eventually turned a side hustle into a thriving company. She explains why entrepreneurship isn't always about chasing millions, but about creating a lifestyle you genuinely enjoy. Throughout the conversation, Amanda offers honest advice on hiring, setting boundaries, automating operations, building customer trust, and creating systems that allow a business to grow without consuming your entire life. Her story is a powerful reminder that success can look different for everyone. Whether you're considering leaving a corporate career, building a service business, or looking for inspiration to pursue a more meaningful path, this episode delivers practical lessons from someone who successfully made the leap. What You'll Learn Why Amanda left a 22-year Wall Street career to become an entrepreneur How to build a business while still working a full-time job The importance of running your side hustle before making the leap Why relationships and customer trust matter more than marketing How hiring the right people can transform your business The systems every growing business should implement early Why entrepreneurs need clear boundaries with clients The difference between working in your business and on your business How to create a business that supports your lifestyle instead of consuming it Why success isn't always measured by revenue alone About Amanda Anderson Amanda Anderson is the founder and owner of Ring and Run Dog Walkers, Staten Island's premier dog walking service. After spending more than two decades working on the trading floor in New York City's Financial District, Amanda made the bold decision to pursue entrepreneurship full-time. Today, she has built a trusted pet care business known for exceptional customer service, strong client relationships, and personalized care. Amanda combines her passion for animals with a people-first approach, proving that businesses built on trust, reputation, and genuine service can thrive through referrals and organic growth. Connect with Amanda Anderson Follow Amanda and Ring and Run Dog Walkers on social media to learn more about her entrepreneurial journey, pet care insights, and growing a service-based business with purpose. Website - https://ringandrundogwalkers.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-anderson-707a4512/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RingandRunDogWalkers/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ringandrundogwalkers/?hl=en Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories behind building successful businesses. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly interviews with entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders sharing the lessons, challenges, pivots, and wins that shaped their success.
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  Music Producer to LA Entrepreneur — How He Built Both | With Connor Treacy 16.07.2026 52min

  What does it take to go from organizing small events at 19 years old to working with Grammy-winning artists, launching one of Hollywood's hottest nightlife venues, and building a successful talent management company? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, host Pat Miller sits down with Connor Treacy, an entrepreneur, talent manager, and former music producer who turned his passion for music and entertainment into a thriving business in Los Angeles. Connor shares his unconventional journey from promoting concerts while still in college to becoming one of Hollywood's most connected young promoters. He explains how those relationships led him to Universal Music Group, where he helped develop rising talent and worked alongside artists who would go on to win Grammy Awards. Later, he co-founded one of LA's most exclusive nightlife venues before pivoting once again to build his own management company. This conversation is packed with lessons on entrepreneurship, relationship building, calculated risk-taking, and adapting through uncertainty, including surviving the entertainment industry's shutdown during COVID-19. Whether you're pursuing a career in music, launching a startup, or building your own brand, Connor's story proves that success rarely follows a straight line. If you're interested in becoming a creative entrepreneur, building a music industry business, or learning how to turn passion into a sustainable company, this episode is full of practical insights. What You'll Learn How Connor built a successful career as a music producer and entrepreneur Why relationships are the foundation of every successful music industry business The lessons learned from promoting concerts before turning 21 How networking opened doors at Universal Music Group What it takes to build a successful business in Los Angeles The reality of becoming an LA business owner in the entertainment industry Why calculated risk is essential for entrepreneurs How COVID forced entrepreneurs to pivot and adapt The importance of momentum in business and career growth Why your entrepreneurial journey doesn't have to follow a traditional path About Connor Treacy Connor Treacy is an entrepreneur, talent manager, and entertainment executive based in Los Angeles. After launching his entrepreneurial journey by promoting concerts and nightlife events, Connor built relationships that led to opportunities with Universal Music Group, where he worked alongside emerging artists and Grammy-winning talent. He later co-founded Off Sunset, one of Hollywood's most exclusive nightlife venues, before returning to his passion for talent management. Today, Connor helps build artists, brands, and strategic partnerships across music, entertainment, hospitality, and culture while continuing to grow his management company. He recently completed his MBA at USC Marshall, combining real-world entrepreneurial experience with advanced business strategy. Connect with Connor Treacy Website:https://connortreacy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theconnortreacy  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/connortreacy/  Connect with Pat Miller Follow Pat Miller for more entrepreneurial insights, business strategies, and inspiring conversations with successful founders and business leaders. Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/ Subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs who share the real stories, lessons, failures, and successes behind building thriving businesses. If you're passionate about entrepreneurship, leadership, business growth, entertainment, and personal development, this podcast is designed to help you build your dream. New episodes are released regularly.  
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  The Master Closer Reveals Why You Can't Close | With Kayvon Kay 09.07.2026 55min

  If you've ever wondered why you can't close a sale, this episode is for you. In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams, host Pat Miller sits down with Kayvon Kay, internationally recognized keynote speaker, Master Closer, sales strategist, and revenue architect, to break down the psychology behind closing deals and why most entrepreneurs unknowingly sabotage their own sales. Kayvon shares the mindset shifts, communication skills, and sales techniques that separate top performers from everyone else. From handling objections with confidence to understanding why people really buy, he explains that great sales isn't about pressure or manipulation. It's about creating trust, solving problems, and becoming someone people naturally want to buy from. The conversation also explores the rapid rise of AI and how today's entrepreneurs can use technology to sell more effectively without losing the human connection that ultimately wins business. Whether you're a business owner, freelancer, salesperson, or entrepreneur, you'll discover practical insights that can immediately improve your ability to influence, communicate, and grow revenue. If you're looking for actionable sales training, better ways of overcoming objections, and proven methods for how to close a sale, this episode delivers a masterclass from one of the industry's leading experts. What You'll Learn Why most people struggle with closing deals The biggest mistake salespeople make before asking for the sale Practical sales techniques that build trust instead of pressure How to confidently handle and overcome objections The mindset every Master Closer develops Why sales is about solving problems, not convincing people How entrepreneurs can use AI to improve productivity without replacing human relationships The importance of authenticity in modern selling Why embracing new technology creates more opportunity, not less How to future-proof your business in an AI-driven world About Kayvon Kay Kayvon Kay is a globally recognized keynote speaker, sales strategist, revenue architect, and Master Closer who has trained thousands of entrepreneurs, founders, and sales professionals around the world. Through one-on-one coaching, group programs, live events, and corporate training, Kayvon helps businesses increase revenue by mastering communication, improving sales performance, and building scalable systems that consistently close more deals. His practical approach combines psychology, leadership, and modern technology to help professionals sell with confidence while creating genuine, long-term relationships with clients. Connect with Kayvon Kay Website - https://kayvon.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kayvonkay/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@kayvonkay Connect with Pat Miller Website: https://patmiller.net/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepatmiller11 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepatmiller11/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepatmiller11/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatMiller11/   If you enjoyed this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, subscribe for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts who share the real stories, lessons, and strategies behind building successful businesses.  
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  Building a $1.5B Real Estate Empire from a Cubicle | Mark Khuri 02.07.2026 46min

  In this inspiring episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller, Pat sits down with Mark Khuri, CEO and Co-Founder of SMK Capital Management, to uncover the remarkable journey from working in a corporate cubicle to building a $1.5 billion real estate investment portfolio. Mark shares how a simple conversation with a coworker sparked his passion for real estate investing and led him to purchase his first property while still working a full-time corporate job. Through persistence, calculated risks, and years of learning, he transitioned from fixing up duplexes after work to leading a private equity firm with investments spanning more than 120 properties across 36 states. The conversation dives deep into today's real estate market, recession-resistant investment strategies, mobile home park investing, passive income opportunities, and the importance of diversification when building long-term wealth. Mark also opens up about setbacks, including a devastating property fire, lessons learned from raising investment capital, and why character and relationships matter more than chasing quick profits. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned investor, or someone looking to build financial freedom through real estate, this episode delivers practical insights and timeless business wisdom. What You'll Learn How Mark turned a corporate finance job into a $1.5B real estate business Why starting real estate investing while keeping your day job can reduce risk The biggest lessons from building SMK Capital Management Why mobile home parks remain one of the most resilient real estate investments The truth about today's self-storage and multifamily markets How successful investors evaluate risk before making a deal Why diversification is essential for protecting wealth The importance of surrounding yourself with trustworthy partners Lessons from raising private investment capital Why entrepreneurship is about freedom, relationships, and long-term thinking About Mark Khuri Mark Khuri is the CEO and Co-Founder of SMK Capital Management, a family-owned private equity real estate firm specializing in institutional-quality, recession-resistant investments. With more than two decades of experience, Mark has participated in over 120 real estate investments valued at more than $1.5 billion and has built more than 70 successful investment partnerships. His mission is helping investors create long-term wealth through carefully selected passive real estate opportunities while emphasizing education, integrity, and disciplined investing. Connect with Mark Khuri Website: https://www.smkcap.com Learn more about SMK Capital Management and explore educational resources on passive real estate investing. Connect with Pat Miller If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to From Underdog to Entrepreneur: Building Dreams with Pat Miller for inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs who have overcome obstacles, built successful businesses, and continue helping others achieve their dreams. New episodes released regularly.
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  Skate Where the Puck Is Going | #29 (John Petrocelli) 25.06.2026 55min

  What if the biggest opportunities are hiding where everyone else isn't looking? In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with John Petrocelli, founder and CEO of Bulldog DM, whose work has generated more than 1 billion audience engagements for brands including Apple, Coca-Cola, Samsung, Netflix, and YouTube. John shares his journey from working in telecommunications and Hollywood mailrooms to helping pioneer the livestreaming industry. Along the way, he collaborated with Prince on one of the first direct-to-consumer music platforms, learned entrepreneurial lessons from Mark Cuban, and built a business by constantly anticipating where technology was heading next. In this conversation, you'll learn: • Why successful entrepreneurs focus on where the market is going, not where it is today • How Prince helped shape the future of digital media and direct-to-consumer business • Why live streaming, AI, and social commerce are creating massive opportunities right now • The importance of listening to customers and solving real problems • How embracing change can keep you ahead of the competition John's story is a powerful reminder that innovation rewards those willing to adapt, experiment, and stay curious. If you're building a business, reinventing your career, or searching for your next big opportunity, this episode will challenge you to think bigger and move faster.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net   Connect with John:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpetrocelli https://bulldogdm.com
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  More Than Just Luck | #28 (Greg Wier) 18.06.2026 1t 1min

  What if the biggest thing standing between you and success is the excuse you've been telling yourself? In this candid conversation, Pat Miller sits down with entrepreneur, author, and security industry veteran Greg Wier to unpack the hard lessons behind building and selling multimillion-dollar companies. From becoming a young father with no money and a failed business to leading a national security empire, Greg shares the unfiltered stories that shaped his journey. Along the way, he reveals why bad partnerships nearly destroyed him, how work ethic opened doors that education couldn't, and why resilience matters more than talent when building a business that lasts. Key takeaways: • Why excuses are often the biggest obstacle to success • The costly lessons Greg learned from multiple business partners • How focusing on revenue, relationships, and discipline creates long-term growth Whether you're launching your first business or navigating the challenges of scaling one, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom from someone who has lived through the highs, lows, lawsuits, setbacks, and victories of entrepreneurship. Success is rarely luck. It's built one decision, one lesson, and one hard-earned experience at a time. Tune in and discover what's possible when you refuse to quit.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net   Connect with Greg: https://www.gregwier.com TikTok, YouTube @morethanjustluck Instagram @morethanjustluckbook
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  The Book I Had to Write | #27 11.06.2026 18min

  What if every setback you've survived was actually preparing you for something bigger? In this special six-month anniversary episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller steps behind the guest chair and into the spotlight to share the story she's never fully told before. Pat introduces her upcoming book, Underdog to Empire: Breaking Barriers and Building Businesses with Strength, Strategy, and a Sense of Humor, and reads powerful excerpts that reveal the grit, heartbreak, resilience, and determination behind her entrepreneurial journey. From growing up overlooked and underestimated, to building a construction company with just $100, to rebuilding her life after the loss of her husband and business partner, Pat shares the lessons that shaped both her business and her life. In this episode: Why being underestimated can become your greatest advantage How RPM Construction was built from a layoff check and a bold decision The powerful "Filing Cabinet Method" for leading through grief and adversity Why some of the people who hurt you may end up helping you most This episode is a celebration of resilience, entrepreneurship, and the underdog spirit that refuses to quit. If you've ever wondered whether the hard road is worth it, this conversation is for you. Your story isn't over. Your next chapter might be the one that changes everything.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net  
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  Why Forgiveness Creates Momentum: From Prison to Purpose | #26 (David Fullmer) 04.06.2026 49min

  Success means nothing if you lose yourself chasing it. In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, host Pat Miller sits down with David to unpack the mindset shifts, daily rhythms, and painful life lessons that transformed him from a troubled teenager facing prison into a successful entrepreneur, coach, and mentor helping others unlock their purpose. David shares the philosophy behind his "B7 Rhythm," a seven-day framework built around motivation, gratitude, forgiveness, intuition, humility, and personal growth. He also opens up about bankruptcy, addiction, family struggles, rebuilding after failure, and why true wealth is about impact, not possessions. In this episode, you'll learn: Why "love you money" matters more than "FU money" How forgiveness can unlock momentum and peace The simple daily rhythm that reduces anxiety and creates clarity This conversation is a reminder that your past does not define your future. One decision can change everything.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net   Connect with David https://www.becomingseven.com/ IG https://www.instagram.com/becomesevenofficial/  Tiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@becomingseven?_t=8qekWWvSYOZ&_r=1  Fb : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568176791201  YT : https://www.youtube.com/@BecomingSeven/videos  
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  She Chose Groceries Over Dreams | #25 (Sarah Walton) 28.05.2026 1t 1min

  At 16, Sarah Walton had to choose between feeding her family or chasing her dream. That painful moment shaped her beliefs about money, worth, and success for years until she finally rewrote the story. In this powerful conversation, host Pat Miller sits down with entrepreneur and coach Sarah Walton to unpack how childhood scarcity can silently control adult success, and how women can reclaim abundance, confidence, and personal power. Key Takeaways: • How early money trauma shapes your future decisions • Why success without fulfillment feels empty • The small mindset shifts that create real abundance If you've ever felt stuck between responsibility and your dreams, this episode will remind you that a new path is always possible.    ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net  Connect with Sarah www.sarahwalton.com Tiktok, Instagram and YouTube - @thesarahwalton FB: @sarahwaltonpage  
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  From Bankruptcy to Building Back | #24 (Kim Leo) 21.05.2026 51min

  What happens when you lose everything, trust the wrong people, and still find the strength to rebuild from scratch? In this powerful episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Chef Kim Leo, founder of Kitchen by Kim Cooks, to unpack her incredible journey from restaurant legacy to bankruptcy, betrayal, Hurricane Sandy, and painful business collapses, all before rising again through grit, faith, and purpose. Kim shares how Covid unexpectedly became her breakthrough, transforming her home kitchen hustle into a thriving business while helping others along the way. In this episode, you'll discover: • How devastating setbacks can become your greatest redirection • Why bad partnerships can teach your biggest business lessons • The power of resilience, service, and finding purpose beyond profit This is more than a story about food. It's about survival, reinvention, and proving that your greatest comeback can come after your hardest fall.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net  Connect with Kim https://kitchenbykimcooks.com Facebook @KimCooks Instagram @KitchenbyKimCooks TikTok @kimcooks1  
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  She Built a Dream From Side Hustle | #23 (Alexa Englesbe) 14.05.2026 52min

  What starts as a side hustle can turn into a life you never imagined. In this episode of From Underdog to Entrepreneur, Pat Miller sits down with Alexa Englesbe, founder of Alexa Lynn Photography, to unpack how she went from chasing a career in magazines to building a thriving photography business from the ground up. Through trial, networking, and relentless self-teaching, Alexa turned curiosity into craft—and craft into a full-time career. From Facebook groups to 26 weddings a year, Alexa shares the real journey behind building a brand in a saturated industry—and what it actually takes to stand out. In this episode, you'll learn: How to turn a side hustle into a full-time business Why relationships and networking drive growth The importance of niching down (and saying no) If you've ever wondered whether you can build something of your own—this is your sign.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net   Connect with Alexa: https://www.alexalynnphoto.com Instagram @alexa.lynn.photo Facebook: @AlexaLynnPhotos  
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  Burnout Nearly Killed Him at 30 | #22 (Boomer Anderson) 07.05.2026 58min

  He looked perfectly healthy—until one test revealed a life-threatening truth at just 30 years old. In this episode, host Pat Miller sits down with Boomer Anderson, CEO of Smarter Not Harder Inc., who shares how a high-powered career in investment banking led to severe burnout, hidden heart disease, and a complete life pivot. What started as a personal health scare turned into a mission to help entrepreneurs optimize their health, performance, and longevity. Boomer breaks down why burnout isn't just "in your head," how stress silently destroys your body, and why most health advice online is misleading without personalization. In this episode, you'll learn: Why sleep deprivation is as dangerous as alcohol for performance How "stress buckets" lead to burnout (and how to fix them) The importance of testing—not guessing—your health strategy If you're building a business but neglecting your health, this conversation might just change—and save—your life.   ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net   Connect with Boomer Troscriptions.com Instagram: @troscriptions  
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  Built on Grit, Not Passion | #21 (Courtney Spies) 30.04.2026 53min

  What if everything you've been told about "following your passion" is wrong? In this episode, Pat Miller sits down with Courtney Spies, Sales Director at Clark Dietrich, whose career started in the Yellow Pages and evolved into leading a major force in a male-dominated industry. Her journey wasn't driven by passion—it was built through grit, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of mastery. From cold calls to commanding rooms she "wasn't supposed to be in," Courtney proves that success isn't found—it's earned. In this episode, you'll learn: Why passion is a byproduct of mastery—not the starting point How to turn self-doubt into your biggest competitive advantage The mindset shift that separates underdogs from leaders If you've ever questioned your path, doubted your ability, or felt like you didn't belong in the room—this conversation will change the way you see everything. Because success isn't about where you start… it's about how hard you're willing to work to become who you're meant to be. ✨ Connect with Host Pat Miller Instagram   thepatmiller11 Website     patmiller.net   Connect with Courtney https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneyspies