Mick Unplugged
Mick Unplugged

Mick Unplugged

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"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.

Recent Episodes

No One’s Healed: The Truth About Purpose from Jess Hilarious
JUN 11, 2026
No One’s Healed: The Truth About Purpose from Jess Hilarious
FIRE LINE: You're never going to be fully healed from everything, but a work in progress is what you want. Jess Hilarious, the dynamic stand-up comedian and co-host of The Breakfast Club, shares her journey of parenting, purpose, and professional evolution. Dive into this episode to understand how resilience defines her legacy and the raw truths behind her success. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - 3 key reasons for Jess Hilarious's because - 6 months to form a bond with her son - 2 Baltimore venues that define her career - Why "dummy" is a term of endearment - The importance of a supportive parenting village QUOTES THAT HIT "You're never going to be fully healed from everything, but a work in progress is what you want." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore "Legacy is one of the most important things to ever leave behind." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore "Parenting is one of the hardest things. It's just the most challenging thing you could ever do. But it's complex and it's complicated, but it's beautiful." - Jessica "Jess Hilarious" Moore CHAPTERS 00:00 Defining Jess Hilarious's Because 01:03 The Shared Parenting Purpose 03:49 Joy Over Happiness in Parenting 06:25 Jess Hilarious's Breakdown Moment 13:49 Fear and the Pregnancy Announcement 22:34 No One is Fully Healed 25:00 The Baltimore "Dummy" Hot Take 27:19 Martin Lawrence and The Room QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How did Jess Hilarious connect with her son emotionally? A: Jess Hilarious describes a moment six months after her son's birth, picking him up while crying, when she felt a deep emotional and mental connection, realizing he was her pride and joy. Q: What was the pivotal moment for Jess Hilarious's stand-up career? A: The pivotal moment was performing at the Wells Fargo Arena in Baltimore City in 2016, opening for Martin Lawrence in front of 13,000 people, which confirmed her path in stand-up comedy. Q: Why is "dummy" a term of endearment in Baltimore? A: "Dummy" became a term of endearment in Baltimore starting around 11 years old for Jess Hilarious's generation, used among peers, and signifies a cultural bond rather than an insult. Connect & Discover Jess Hilarious: Instagram: @jesshilarious_official Website: jesshilariousofficial.com Facebook: @JessHilariousofficial YouTube: @jesshilariousofficial X: @jess_hilarious TikTok: @jesshilarious_official Book: “Till Death Do We Parent FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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38 MIN
Fearless Leadership: Gridiron to Greatness with Jared Allen
JUN 4, 2026
Fearless Leadership: Gridiron to Greatness with Jared Allen
Leadership isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about inspiring commitment through genuine connection and relentless effort. Learn leadership from NFL Hall of Famer, Jared Allen, as he shares insights from his Pro Bowl career about thriving under pressure. This episode reveals how elite athletes translate gridiron success into business and personal development. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The 2011 season's 22-sack mindset - Building a Hall of Fame career foundation - Jared Allen's key leadership principles - Mental toughness strategies for entrepreneurs - Honoring military families through philanthropy QUOTES THAT HIT "You have to be a little bit crazy, but you also have to be calculated." - Jared Allen "Leadership is not just about telling people what to do, it's about showing them and earning their trust." - Jared Allen "There's no substitute for hard work and understanding your competition." - Jared Allen CHAPTERS 00:00 From Idaho State to NFL Legend 07:15 The 22-Sack Season Breakdown 14:30 Leadership Lessons from the Locker Room 21:55 Transitioning NFL Grit to Business 28:10 Jared Allen's Philanthropic Mission 35:00 Sustaining Excellence Beyond the Field 42:20 Building a Brand, Full Ryed Bourbon QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: How did Jared Allen approach the record-breaking 2011 NFL season? A: Jared Allen combined relentless physical preparation with a deep understanding of his opponents' tendencies, constantly pushing for improvement even when nearing the single-season sack record. Q: What are Jared Allen's top leadership principles? A: Jared Allen emphasizes leading by example, fostering genuine relationships, and empowering teammates, believing that true leadership earns respect rather than demands it. Q: How does Jared Allen maintain mental toughness in his post-NFL career? A: Jared Allen applies the same discipline and strategic thinking he used in football to his business ventures and personal life, focusing on continuous learning and impactful contributions. Connect & Discover Jared: Instagram: @jaredallen69 Full Ryde Bourbon: fullrydebourbon.com Foundation: Jared Allen’s Homes for Wounded Warriors X / Twitter: @jaredallen69    🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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37 MIN
How to Take it Personal and Win in Business with David Grutman
MAY 28, 2026
How to Take it Personal and Win in Business with David Grutman
My wife and family are special, and I want the world to see how special they are. Entrepreneur David Grutman, co-owner of Groot Hospitality, shares how to build a lasting legacy and why nurturing relationships is key to success. He explains why focusing on intellectual property and an exit strategy, even if you never plan to sell, are critical for any business leader. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - The critical importance of building an ecosystem around your business - How David Grutman uses AI in his hospitality ventures - Why your intellectual property and name are everything - The one thing David is most proud of to date - Why building an exit strategy for your business is crucial QUOTES THAT HIT "If I see a guest that I know that we take care of all the time doing their birthday party at another venue and not ours. I'm upset." - David Grutman "Don't being a gatekeeper. I hate these gatekeeper people." - David Grutman "You should always build a company that that's why IP is very important that you're not going to have a mess if you do exit trying to tie up all these people that are part of your IP." - David Grutman CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome David Grutman 01:32 David's Entrepreneurial Because and Next Steps 02:36 Groot Hospitality's Las Vegas Expansion 04:41 Taking Things Personally in Business 06:37 Building Your Business Ecosystem 09:53 David Grutman's Unique Value Proposition 15:47 The Importance of Being in the Right Rooms 19:53 Your Name and IP are Everything 22:22 The Exit Strategy Mindset 25:51 Mick's Rapid Fire Five with David QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What does David Grutman mean by "Take It Personal"? A: David Grutman applies "Take It Personal" to his business, meaning he fully immerses himself in the customer experience, observing competitor venues, and ensuring his team provides the best service to keep guests loyal. Q: How can entrepreneurs build a strong ecosystem around their business? A: Entrepreneurs build a strong ecosystem by focusing on relationships and curating experiences, both within their own venues and by recommending other valuable experiences, adding value for their guests beyond their direct offerings. Q: Why is having an exit strategy important, even if you don't plan to sell? A: Having an exit strategy is important because it forces you to run your business like a public company, ensuring it is structured for sustainability, making it easier to pass on to the next generation or sell if the opportunity arises.   Connect & Discover David: Instagram: @davidgrutman Groot Hospitality: groothospitality.com LinkedIn: David Grutman TikTok: @davidgrutman X: @DavidGrutman Book: Take It Personal: How to Succeed by Building Relationships and Playing the Long Game  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube:  @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website:  MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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30 MIN
Service Above Self: A Memorial Day Tribute to the Heroes Who Defended Our Freedom
MAY 25, 2026
Service Above Self: A Memorial Day Tribute to the Heroes Who Defended Our Freedom
You don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation. This Memorial Day episode features reflections from figures like Chef Robert Irvine and Michelle Mace-Curren on military service and leadership. Delve into the deep driving forces behind dedication and self-sacrifice, exploring the critical role of preparation in overcoming impossible challenges. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - Chef Robert Irvine's mission to help those lost - The reason behind a 30-year Air Force veteran's call for help - Why micromanaging doesn't constitute leadership - 4 principles for building strong, loyal teams - The significance of 1% of the US population serving in the military QUOTES THAT HIT "Because there are people out there that need my help." - Memorial Day  "If you're worried about something right now that your worry will not affect, you're wasting your energy." - Memorial Day  "My because is simply because we're temporary." - Memorial Day  CHAPTERS 00:03 Mick Unplugged: Your Because 00:46 Chef Irvine's Because: Helping Others 02:12 Tough Love and Relatability 05:48 Overcoming Impossible: Start with Chapter One 07:29 Empathetic Leadership: Beyond Micromanagement 10:51 Military Service: A Daughter-in-Law's Journey 17:03 My Because: A Free Nation 22:43 Robert J. Ono's Because: Family 28:02 Bin Laden Raid: The 90-Minute Flight 32:31 Preparation: Master the Basics 33:23 CZ Lopez: Purpose and Misfortunes 43:17 Michelle Mace-Curren: Legacy and Leadership QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What does Chef Robert Irvine consider his "because"? A: Chef Robert Irvine says his "because" is that there are people out there who need his help, and he uses his platform for the betterment of others who are less fortunate. Q: How does Michelle Mace-Curren define her "because" as an entrepreneur after military service? A: Michelle Mace-Curren finds her "because" in creating her legacy now, seeing the tangible inspiration in front of her eyes when she gives keynote speeches, and knowing that her work impacts people's lives. Q: Why is preparation essential for leaders, according to Robert J. Ono? A: Robert J. Ono emphasizes that leaders must be prepared for contingencies and master the basics, because "you don't rise to the occasion, you rise or fall to your level of preparation." Connect & Discover Our Memorial Day Heroes: Chef Robert Irvine Website: ChefIrvine.com Chef Robert Irvine Instagram: @chefirvine Robert Irvine Foundation: RobertIrvineFoundation.org JoAnne Bass LinkedIn: @jo-bass JoAnne Bass Instagram: @thejoannebass Rob O'Neill Website: RobONeill.com Rob O'Neill Instagram: @mchooyah CZ Lopez LinkedIn: @ramoncolonlopez CZ Lopez Instagram: @therealczcolonlopez Michelle "Mace" Curran Website: MaceCurran.com Michelle "Mace" Curran Instagram: @mace.curran Ready to Unleash Your Inner Game-Changer?   Mick Hunt’s BEST SELLING book, How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One: The Blueprint for Modern Leadership, is here to light a fire under your ambition and arm you with the real-talk strategies that only Mick delivers.   Grab your copy now and level up your life: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A MillionFOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast LinkedIn: @mickhunt Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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54 MIN
Stop Being Forgettable: The Secret to Lasting Impact with Jefrë
MAY 21, 2026
Stop Being Forgettable: The Secret to Lasting Impact with Jefrë
 The story will keep you there. This Mick Unplugged episode features JEFRË, a Public Artist and Creative Director. He explores how pivotal life experiences and a singular vision shaped his career, leading him to create monumental public art around the globe. Discover JEFRË’s journey from urban designer to iconic artist. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN - JEFRË's journey after a 35-year-old heart attack - How to become a brand-collaborating artist - The significance behind "Victor" in the Philippines - Why brands seek creative leaders like JEFRË - Developing art from community insights QUOTES THAT HIT "The story will keep you there." - JEFRË "I'm getting cities and nations together to create icons or moments that they can identify with their own culture." - JEFRË "The key is, is really engineering. That's where it is." - JEFRË CHAPTERS 00:00 Mick Unplugged Introduction 02:30 JEFRË on legacy and creation 06:51 JEFRË's Filipino-American origin story 09:42 Heart attack, career change to artist 13:47 JEFRË's process for designing art 20:06 JEFRË on personal connections 24:43 Branding and entrepreneurship with JEFRË 31:54 New projects and Shark Art QUESTIONS THIS EPISODE ANSWERS Q: What motivated JEFRË to become an artist after a career in urban design? A: JEFRË’s near-death experience from a heart attack at 35 prompted him to pursue creating impactful art immediately, shifting from long-term urban planning projects to direct artistic creation. Q: How does JEFRË ensure his monumental public artworks resonate with communities? A: JEFRË emphasizes listening to the community to understand their desires, then interpreting that input into his art. He believes the storyline derived from community engagement is more important than the scale of the artwork. Q: What is "Shark Art" and how does Damon John support artists like JEFRË? A: Shark Art is Damon John's initiative to support artists by providing management and business guidance. Damon helps artists like JEFRË navigate commercial aspects, manage their image, and secure licensing deals to expand their reach. Connect & Discover Jefrë: Instagram: @jefre_artist Website: jefre.org LinkedIn: JEFRË Studio TikTok: @jefre_artist  🔥 Ready to Lead Different & Win Bigger? 🔥  How to Be a Good Leader When You’ve Never Had One by Mick Hunt isn’t just a book - it’s your blueprint to set up, stand out, and lead with confidence (even if no one ever showed you how). Straight talk. Real Strategy. No fluff. Just the tools you need to elevate your leadership and life. 👉 Get your copy now and start leading on your terms → Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books A Million FOLLOW MICK ON: Spotify: MickUnplugged Instagram: @mickunplugged  Facebook: @mickunplugged YouTube: @MickUnpluggedPodcast  LinkedIn: @mickhunt  Website: MickHuntOfficial.com Website: howtobeagoodleader.com Website: Leadloudseries.com Apple: MickUnplugged See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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41 MIN