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    953: We Did the Math — Our Colleague's a Sociopath | Feedback Friday

    en-usFebruary 16, 2024

    Podcast Summary

    • Transforming a spare room into an AirbnbSharing a unique space and local knowledge with travelers through Airbnb can bring in extra income and create special experiences for both hosts and guests.

      Turning a spare room into an Airbnb not only brings in extra income but also allows hosts to share their unique space and local knowledge with travelers. Jen and Gabriel, the hosts of the podcast, share their personal experience of transforming their home into an Airbnb and the joy they derive from making their guests feel welcome. They emphasize the importance of making the guest experience special with personal touches and local recommendations. Additionally, they encourage listeners to consider the potential value of their homes beyond just sitting idle. Airbnb offers a platform to connect travelers with unique accommodations and experiences, making it a win-win situation for both hosts and guests.

    • Experiencing the rich culture of JapanJapan's unique sense of calm and intentionality comes from its quietness, respect for small gestures, and diverse cultural experiences.

      Japan is a country rich in culture, quietness, and respect. The silence and stillness of the country create a unique sense of calm and intentionality. Interactions between people are treated as ceremonies, with tiny gestures holding great significance. I was particularly struck by the quietness of the country, which extended to public transportation, restaurants, and even the streets. The respect and appreciation for these small gestures create a sense of harmony and order. During my trip, I experienced the full range of Japanese culture. One day, we attended a Kabuki play, a traditional and beautiful performance that left me speechless, despite not understanding the language. Later that day, we attended a more unconventional show, which was a campy and risqué experience. These contrasting experiences showcased the depth and diversity of Japanese culture. Overall, my trip to Japan was an incredible and stimulating experience that deepened my appreciation for the country's rich culture and unique way of life. The quietness, respect, and appreciation for small gestures created a sense of calm and intentionality that I have not experienced in other places.

    • Experiencing Japan: From Bizarre Shows to Serene Tea CeremoniesJapan's unique traditions, like tea ceremonies, require focus and dedication, leaving a lasting impression and inspiring a desire for mastery and appreciation for life's small moments.

      The speaker's experience in Japan was filled with unique and profound moments, from attending a bizarre and entertaining show to participating in a traditional tea ceremony. The tea ceremony, which required precision and dedication to master, was compared to a martial art due to its intricacy and focus. The speaker's encounter with a Japanese tea ceremony master during their childhood left a lasting impression, and they brought a piece of Japan home with them by purchasing authentic matcha tea and utensils. The experience in Japan taught the speaker to appreciate the small gestures and moments in life and to strive for mastery in various aspects. Despite the chaos and noise of the airport on their departure, the speaker vowed to carry the calm and quiet demeanor they had adopted in Japan back home with them.

    • Japan's Unique Blend of Hedonism and SpiritualityJapan offers contrasting experiences, from sublime to bizarre, with a unique blend of hedonism and spirituality, leaving visitors with unforgettable memories and a desire to explore further.

      Japan is a land of contrasts, offering unique experiences that range from the sublime to the bizarre. The speaker shares his fondness for the country, despite feeling out of place at times. He recalls an unexpected encounter at an all-you-can-eat beer garden, where he witnessed a distinguished Japanese man using a "vomitorium sink" to continue eating and drinking beyond the two-hour limit. This experience, along with others, highlights the intriguing blend of hedonism and spirituality that can be found in Japan. Despite the contradictions, the speaker is drawn to the country and plans to return for more adventures, including learning to snowboard in Niseko.

    • Supporting colleagues through unexpected challengesIt's essential to provide love and resources to those in need, even when faced with unexpected or unusual circumstances. Mental health issues are common and require proper interventions and support.

      Appearances can be deceiving, and it's important to support people through difficult times, even if the situation seems unusual or unexpected. In the discussed story, a colleague, Jeff, appeared to be going through a tragic loss when his parents died, but later it was revealed that he had been lying about their deaths and his sister's suicide. Despite the shocking twist, the colleagues continued to support Jeff, showing that even when faced with unexpected challenges, it's crucial to provide love and resources to those in need. Additionally, the story highlights the importance of being aware of mental health issues and the need for proper interventions when individuals are struggling.

    • The Dangers of Blind TrustBe aware of signs of manipulation and deceit, maintain healthy skepticism, learn from experiences, and seek support when needed.

      Trust can be easily broken and it's important to be aware of the signs of manipulation and deceit in relationships, especially in professional settings. The story of Doctor Jeff serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of trusting someone blindly, despite appearances and past experiences. It's crucial to maintain a healthy skepticism and to trust our instincts when something feels off. The aftermath of such a betrayal can be devastating, leading to feelings of anger, distrust, and even a loss of faith in humanity. However, it's essential to remember that not everyone is like Doctor Jeff, and most people are trustworthy. The key is to learn from the experience and to develop strategies for building trust and verifying the authenticity of relationships. It's also important to remember that seeking help and support from others is a vital part of the healing process.

    • Embrace a range of emotions after being manipulatedBe kind and trusting, but also discerning and skeptical after being manipulated to prevent future deceit.

      It's important to acknowledge and embrace a range of emotions after being manipulated or deceived by someone. Feeling ashamed for being vulnerable and trusting is understandable, but it's equally important to feel angry at the person who exploited that vulnerability. Overreacting and shutting down trust and kindness is not a productive response. Instead, one should aim to be kind and trusting while also being discerning and skeptical. The experience of being conned can serve as a valuable lesson about the existence of deceitful people in the world, but it's essential not to let that experience define or limit one's interactions with others.

    • Be kind and vulnerable to foster meaningful relationshipsBeing kind and vulnerable encourages others to do the same, fostering meaningful relationships. Trusting others is essential, despite risks, and avoiding openness due to past experiences might not prevent negative encounters.

      Being kind and vulnerable with most people will bring out their best qualities and foster meaningful relationships. Meeting strangers with your best qualities is more likely to encourage them to do the same. Trusting others is an essential part of human society and evolution, despite the risks. Avoiding being open to meet people due to past negative experiences might not prevent encountering similar individuals and could potentially attract unwanted attention. Trust yourself to discern and learn from experiences, and remember that most people are not like the exceptional cases. This approach will make you more discerning and compassionate without diminishing your relationships. As a reminder, support those who support the show through the deals, discount codes, and other opportunities available at jordanharbinger.com/deals.

    • The Importance of Parental Connection for Children with Complex NeedsMaintaining a strong parent-child connection is crucial for a child's emotional and developmental growth, even if it's challenging. Severing that connection could negatively impact the child's future.

      Despite the challenges and difficulties of raising a child with complex needs, it's essential for the child's emotional and developmental growth that they maintain a strong connection with their parents. The child in question, who has faced numerous behavioral issues and a challenging upbringing, relies heavily on his parents for stability and love. While it may be difficult and even detrimental to the parents' health and wellbeing in the long run, severing that connection could have negative consequences for the child's future. It's a complex issue, and one that requires careful consideration and potentially outside expertise to navigate. Ultimately, the decision rests with the parents, but it's important to remember the profound impact that their presence and love have on their child's life.

    • Find sustainable solutions for child's explosive behaviorsInstead of relying on law enforcement, have open conversations with parents to find resources and support for child's explosive behaviors, ensuring better family dynamics and outcomes for the child.

      It's crucial for the family to find sustainable solutions to help their 9-year-old brother with explosive behaviors, rather than relying on law enforcement as unofficial coparents. While it's understandable that the parents may feel overwhelmed and helpless, making law enforcement a regular presence in their son's life could potentially set him up for a negative relationship with the criminal justice system. Instead, having an open and collaborative conversation with the parents about finding the right resources and support for their son is the best way to ensure his well-being and give him the best possible chance at growth and development. Adoption is a lifelong commitment, and every child deserves a family, even those with significant challenges. Nancy, a psychologist, suggested focusing on finding sustainable solutions, rather than giving up or fighting a losing battle. This approach can lead to healthier family dynamics and better outcomes for the child.

    • Communicating openly and lovingly with family and colleaguesWhen dealing with complex family situations or challenging colleagues, communicate openly and lovingly to find solutions and seek professional help when necessary.

      When dealing with complex family situations, it's essential to communicate openly and lovingly with your parents about finding better supports for your loved ones, rather than giving up on them. In the case of a challenging brother situation, having a conversation about expectations, limitations, and fears can lead to finding solutions and seeking help from professionals. Regarding a personal issue with a colleague, always ensure clear communication and documentation to avoid misunderstandings and potential disputes. In both situations, showing empathy and working collaboratively can lead to positive outcomes.

    • Individuals prioritizing ego over logic and empathy cause unnecessary conflicts and damage relationshipsRecognize and avoid engaging with individuals who prioritize their ego over logic and empathy to maintain mental and emotional well-being.

      Some people prioritize their ego and need to be right over logic and empathy, leading them to create unnecessary conflicts and legal battles. The discussion revolves around an individual named Chris, who has a history of antagonistic behavior, including suing people over small disputes and contesting annulled real estate deals, even in cases where the other party had valid reasons for backing out. This behavior not only causes stress and anxiety for the other party but also damages relationships and reputations. In the given situation, Chris's actions forced a colleague to go on sick leave due to the resulting stress and anxiety. It's essential to recognize and avoid engaging with such individuals and focus on maintaining mental and emotional well-being.

    • Dealing with difficult people: A focus on personal growthFocus on personal growth instead of letting difficult people control our actions or emotions.

      While dealing with difficult people like Chris, focusing on our own growth and coping mechanisms is crucial. Chris's behavior may trigger old traumas and cause anxiety, but it's essential to work through it with a therapist instead of letting it control our actions or forcing us to consider drastic measures. The situation may not change with Chris, so the only viable solution is to work on ourselves and build up our tolerance for difficult people and stress. This growth can be seen as a necessary lesson sent by challenging individuals like Chris, who, in some cosmic sense, are sent into our lives to help us learn and grow. Additionally, learning to be a little more resilient and less affected by others' feelings, like Doctor Jeff, can also be beneficial. Overall, the key takeaway is to focus on personal growth and not let difficult people derail us from our goals and objectives.

    • Considering the Risks and Benefits of Synthetic WeedIndividuals should carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits of using synthetic cannabis derivatives like HHC, taking into account personal values, goals, and professional or mental health concerns. Seeking professional guidance can help inform decision making.

      The use of synthetic cannabis derivatives like HHC can be a complex issue, especially for individuals with a history of substance abuse or mental health concerns. While some forms of synthetic weed may be less dangerous than others, the potential risks and personal implications make it important for individuals to carefully consider their use and seek professional guidance if necessary. In the case of the letter writer, his use of HHC has led to significant benefits in his personal and professional life, but he also expresses concerns about addiction and the potential negative impact on his self-image. A clinical psychologist specializing in addiction and trauma, Dr. Reuben Codum, emphasized that substance use can serve as a form of self-medication and that individuals should be aware of the underlying motivations for their use. Ultimately, the decision to continue or quit using HHC should be based on a thorough understanding of the potential risks and benefits, as well as the individual's personal values and goals.

    • Recognizing signs of tolerance and seeking supportBe aware of potential overuse, recognize warning signs, seek support from trusted sources, and maintain accountability to avoid negative consequences when using substances, including HHC.

      It's important to be aware of the potential for overuse when using any substance, even those that are generally considered healthy or helpful. Doctor Kotham suggests recognizing the signs of tolerance and other yellow light warning signs as indicators that it may be time to scale back. He also emphasizes the importance of seeking support from trusted sources, such as therapists, to help manage underlying anxieties and maintain accountability. Additionally, it's worth considering the role that certain substances play in our self-image and exploring any feelings of guilt or shame that may arise from their use. Regarding HHC specifically, there is limited research on its safety, and it's recommended to consult a doctor before using it. Ultimately, it's essential to strike a balance between using substances to improve our well-being and avoiding excessive use that could lead to negative consequences.

    • Invest in relationships for personal and professional growthDaily networking practices on 6 minute platform help build trust and open doors to opportunities

      Building relationships and expanding your network is crucial for personal and professional growth. The speaker emphasizes that the best opportunities in life often come from the people we know and trust. He encourages listeners to invest time in building relationships through simple, daily networking practices. These practices, which can be found for free on the 6 minute networking platform, are designed to take only a few minutes a day. The speaker also mentions the importance of engaging in discussions with other listeners about the show on the subreddit r/jordanharbinger. Additionally, the episode features a discussion with Rory Stewart, president of GiveDirectly, about the effectiveness of cash charity and the limitations of traditional foreign aid programs.

    • Unlocking potential with Lexus GX and Capella UniversityLexus GX provides luxury and convenience on the road, while Capella University offers flexible and accredited education. Whole Foods Market has Mother's Day deals, and Air Wick's FIBRAN scented oils transform homes.

      Both the new Lexus GX and Capella University offer exceptional experiences that can help you unlock your potential in different ways. The Lexus GX provides luxury and convenience on the road, with features like front row massaging seats and multi-terrain select. Capella University, on the other hand, offers flexible and accredited education that allows students to gain relevant skills and earn a degree at their own pace. At Whole Foods Market, you can find high-quality gifts and treats for Mother's Day, with savings on body care and candles, as well as special deals on flowers and desserts. And with Air Wick's FIBRAN scented oils, you can transform your home into a welcoming and fragrant space that will make you want to invite guests over. These products and experiences offer unique benefits that can enhance your daily life and help you celebrate special occasions in style.

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    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

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    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
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    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/989

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    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/988

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    987: Robert Mazur | How Money Laundering Works Part One

    987: Robert Mazur | How Money Laundering Works Part One

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    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    986: Porn | Skeptical Sunday

    986: Porn | Skeptical Sunday

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    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with Michael Regilio at TwitterInstagram, and YouTube, and make sure to check out the Michael Regilio Plagues Well With Others podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/986

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    985: Lives Are at Stake in Bail Reform's Wake | Feedback Friday

    985: Lives Are at Stake in Bail Reform's Wake | Feedback Friday

    When bail reforms free violent offenders and risk others' safety, how can we uphold justice while safeguarding victims? Welcome to Feedback Friday!

    And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!

    On This Week's Feedback Friday:

    • When bail reforms free violent offenders and risk others' safety, how can we uphold justice while safeguarding victims?
    • You've about had it with your autistic boss' cringeworthy conspiracy theories. How can you disagree respectfully and maintain professionalism?
    • As a cancer patient struggling with massive student loans and disability assistance denial, what legal help and guidance is available for navigating private loan regulations while fighting for survival?
    • You've invented a non-functional plastic object that brings laughter to all who behold its absurdity. You want to protect the IP so you can profit from this stroke of comedic novelty, but you can't ignore the potential environmental impact of manufacturing such an item en masse. What should you do?
    • Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
    • Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi and Instagram @gabrielmizrahi.

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/985

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    984: Susan Casey | Unraveling Mysteries in the Ocean's Darkest Depths

    984: Susan Casey | Unraveling Mysteries in the Ocean's Darkest Depths

    What challenges can the ocean help us meet, and what must we do to safeguard its treasures? The Underworld author Susan Casey dives deep for answers here!

    What We Discuss with Susan Casey:

    • The ocean plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth's climate and serves as the largest carbon sink on the planet, making its preservation essential for mitigating climate change.
    • The ocean is home to a fascinating array of creatures that have adapted to extreme conditions, such as iron-breathing microbes, glass sponges, and jellyfish that can reverse their life cycle.
    • Pollution, including plastics, chemical weapons, and nuclear waste, has severely impacted the ocean ecosystem, with some deep-sea creatures found to have plastic particles embedded in their organs.
    • There are an estimated three million shipwrecks on the ocean floor, preserving valuable historical artifacts and information — such as the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient Greek analog computer.
    • Exploring the ocean can lead to groundbreaking discoveries in medicine, Earth's history, and climate, providing valuable insights for addressing humanity's challenges — provided we safeguard this treasury of knowledge for current and future generations.
    • And much more...

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/984

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    • The factors that led Tom Hardin toward the temptation of illegal insider trading.
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    • And much more...

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/918 

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals 

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course! 

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!

    256: Malcolm Gladwell | What We Should Know about Talking to Strangers

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    Malcolm Gladwell (@gladwell) has written bestsellers that are probably on your shelf right now, including The Tipping Point, Blink, Outliers, and What the Dog Saw. His latest book is Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don't Know.

    What We Discuss with Malcolm Gladwell:

    • Why, if we don't know how to talk to strangers, we invite conflict and misunderstanding in ways that have a profound effect on our lives and our world.
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    • Why television makes us worse at reading other people.
    • Why we think we can tell if someone is lying, guilty, or deceptive -- and why we're almost always wrong.
    • What determines the direction of Malcolm's projects, and how he researches and organizes the massive amount of information that goes into them.
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    Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://jordanharbinger.com/256

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking -- our free networking and relationship development mini course -- at jordanharbinger.com/course!

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    365: Benjamin Hardy | How to Break Free from Self-Limiting Beliefs

    365: Benjamin Hardy | How to Break Free from Self-Limiting Beliefs

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    Full show notes and resources can be found here: https://jordanharbinger.com/365

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

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    705: Gabe’s Front-Row Seat to Florid Psychosis | Feedback Friday

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    On this Feedback Friday, Gabe relays the tragic story of a paranoid schizophrenic neighbor that illustrates just how destabilizing unchecked mental illness can be for family members, friends, neighbors, and the patients themselves.

    And in case you didn't already know it, Jordan Harbinger (@JordanHarbinger) and Gabriel Mizrahi (@GabeMizrahi) banter and take your comments and questions for Feedback Friday right here every week! If you want us to answer your question, register your feedback, or tell your story on one of our upcoming weekly Feedback Friday episodes, drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com. Now let's dive in!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/705

    On This Week's Feedback Friday, We Discuss:

    • Gabe relays the tragic story of a paranoid schizophrenic neighbor that illustrates just how destabilizing unchecked mental illness can be for family members, friends, neighbors, and the patients themselves.
    • In spite of having a dream job and a significant other who checks most of your boxes, current circumstances make imagining a future in your native Russia difficult. Unfortunately, this significant other comes from a conservative family and doesn't understand why you'd ever want to move abroad. Are your differences too radical to build a life together?
    • Your boss is an incredible leader who commands respect across the board. Unfortunately, a family tragedy has overwhelmed her with grief. How can your team offer support without intruding on her personal life?
    • Your significant other is great in every respect -- except for when he gets in a "mood" and resorts to calling you names and putting you down. Where do you draw the line on verbal abuse?
    • Is it possible to profit from selling your business idea when you don't have the financial means to create your own startup around that idea?
    • Have any questions, comments, or stories you'd like to share with us? Drop us a line at friday@jordanharbinger.com!
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter at @JordanHarbinger and Instagram at @jordanharbinger.
    • Connect with Gabriel on Twitter at @GabeMizrahi.

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking -- our free networking and relationship development mini course -- at jordanharbinger.com/course!

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    956: Cannabis | Skeptical Sunday

    956: Cannabis | Skeptical Sunday

    What are the social, political, and medical ramifications of cannabis use? Michael Regilio is the Chong to Jordan's Cheech on this Skeptical Sunday!

    On This Week's Skeptical Sunday, We Discuss:

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    • The criminalization of cannabis in the 20th century and the slow reversal of its prohibition.
    • The effects of THC and CBD.
    • Why modern cannabis is so much more potent than the strains our parents used to sneak.
    • The benefits of legal cannabis.
    • Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. If you have something you'd like us to tackle here on Skeptical Sunday, drop Jordan a line at jordan@jordanharbinger.com and let him know!
    • Connect with Michael Regilio at TwitterInstagram, and YouTube, and make sure to check out the Michael Regilio Plagues Well With Others podcast here or wherever you enjoy listening to fine podcasts!

    Full show notes and resources can be found here: jordanharbinger.com/956

    This Episode Is Brought To You By Our Fine Sponsors: jordanharbinger.com/deals

    Sign up for Six-Minute Networking — our free networking and relationship development mini course — at jordanharbinger.com/course!

    Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally!