This podcast episode features an authentic and energetic conversation between hosts and two new team members, Ian from Lena, Illinois, and Brandon from Charlotte, North Carolina. Both share their experiences joining the company — Ian reconnecting with old high school friends already on the team, and Brandon taking a bold leap by applying online and flying to Indiana within days for training. The discussion highlights themes of ambition, risk-taking, and personal growth, as the hosts and guests reflect on how pursuing discomfort and uncertainty often leads to greater opportunities. They touch on the importance of company culture, describing a young, driven team environment where everyone is passionate, competitive, and eager to grow together. Ian and Brandon talk about the hands-on, high-level training and the supportive atmosphere that exceeded their expectations. The conversation also dives deeper into life philosophy, encouraging listeners to take risks, avoid regret, and “bet on themselves” rather than choosing the illusion of safety. The episode closes with gratitude, excitement for future growth, and recognition of how this expanding company culture continues to attract hardworking, purpose-driven individuals.

In this episode of The Next Play Podcast, we sit down with Colton, whose bold decision to leave a promising football coaching career illustrates the power of embracing change and adopting a "Next Play" mindset. Colton opens up about his journey from coaching football at Minnesota, Army, and Rutgers to joining AE, driven by a desire for alignment, happiness, and meaningful relationships. We discuss the importance of fully committing to your decisions, navigating discomfort during transitions, and continuously moving forward after setbacks. Hear firsthand how shifting your mindset and taking decisive action can lead to profound personal growth and new opportunities. Tune in and learn why sometimes, your next play might be in a completely new game.

In this episode of The Next Play Podcast, we're joined by Charlie Henson, a top-performing sales representative known for his strong discipline and dedication. Together, we explore how your identity and mindset shape your decisions and why cultivating strong habits is crucial for personal and professional growth. Charlie shares his journey of adopting disciplined routines, highlighting how consistent choices can redefine your identity and lead to greater success. Tune in to learn why your beliefs and self-image are essential in overcoming challenges and achieving your fullest potential.

In this episode of the Next Play Podcast, we dive into the power of processes and habits to help you achieve consistent success. Discover why detail-oriented, repeatable processes are essential for controlling outcomes, navigating chaos, and ultimately reaching your personal vision—whether in faith, fitness, or financial freedom. We talk about building systems that become your non-negotiable defaults, emphasizing consistency over occasional high effort. You'll learn why avoiding wrong actions can sometimes be even more important than knowing exactly what steps to take, and how lasting success often comes from small, incremental changes. Tune in to explore how adopting clear processes can significantly boost your credibility, effectiveness, and long-term growth.

This episode of The Next Play Podcast features George, AE’s Illinois sales manager, on why winners lose more than losers. He shares how to embrace failure, stay resilient, and maintain a short memory in the face of adversity. Learn how winners remain calm under pressure, turn losses into lessons, and surround themselves with positivity—practical tips for building confidence and pushing forward with the right mindset.

This episode explores why attention is today’s most valuable currency and how to turn it into lasting success. Learn how intention, authentic value, and trust transform attention into loyalty. We cover strategic content creation, experimentation, and audience insight to build relationships, grow financially, and harness intentional engagement for long-term prosperity.

This episode of The Next Play Podcast with ex-paratrooper Ian McKillick explores the long-game mindset. Learn why avoiding instant gratification, embracing small steps, and building resilience are key to lasting success. Ian shares military lessons on discipline, commitment, and finding fulfillment through consistent effort, offering practical advice to strengthen willpower and stay the course.

This episode challenges the safety of Plan B, showing how backup plans can stall growth. By committing fully, you create urgency, overcome fear, and embrace uncertainty. With real stories and tips on taking smart entrepreneurial risks, it motivates you to ditch hesitation, work hard, and go all in on your vision to build the success you want.