Public Figure Society

We are flooded with content, followers, and digital noise, but real connection still cuts through. In this episode, I sit down with David Waltzer, founder of Wicked Awesome Happy Hour, to talk about why relationships are the only currency that holds its value. David shares how he went from transplant to community builder and created the most trusted networking space for entrepreneurs in Phoenix. W...

Patrick Hanlon is back and we dive into the DNA of brand. Even with the rise of AI and the changes happening in culture, the foundation remains the same. The DNA is branding. We explore the elements behind belief, community, and identity, and how they apply to both personal and business brands. We talk about what AI can and cannot do when it comes to storytelling, and why building real connection...

This week, I had the privilege of interviewing Neal Hanlon, my mentor, friend, and futurist, about the rapid evolution of AI and what it means for the future of work. Together, we dug into how AI has reshaped white-collar jobs since 2013 and why blue-collar skill sets will only become more valuable as automation continues to advance. Neal and I explored the mindset shifts that leaders and professi...

In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Burkett, co-founder and director at Ceop Pro AI—an AI-powered executive operating platform that delivers strategic insights in just 48 hours, ten times faster and at a fraction of the cost of traditional consulting. With over 30 years of leadership and innovation experience, Matt is passionate about making AI-powered decision-making accessible to every busi...

In this captivating conversation, I sit down with Mary Kay Garrett after meeting her at a networking event at Podworks Studio. What began as my curiosity about her incredible 60-pound weight loss journey using ChatGPT quickly unfolded into a powerful story of total life transformation through authentic AI. Mary Kay reveals how the same AI tools that helped her shed 60 pounds became the foundation...

In this episode, I sit down with DJ Barton, a seasoned entrepreneur who's revolutionized how he uses AI as a personal coach and mentor. DJ reveals how he's created AI alter egos that understand his unique needs and challenges, essentially building himself a $10,000 coach that's available 24/7. DJ shares his practical strategies for training AI to unlock its true potential, emphasizing the importan...

In this conversation, I sit down with Patrick Hanlon, author of Primal Branding —widely regarded as the most important book on branding ever written. Together, we explore why positioning is no longer enough, and how the brands that thrive in 2025 will be those that build community and belief—not just visibility. Patrick shares how the Primal Code—a set of elements like creation stories, rituals, a...

I sat down with Mike Klein to talk about what it really takes to lead through communication in a world that’s anything but stable. This isn’t just about writing clean copy or managing internal newsletters—it’s about power, politics, and personal presence. Strategic communicators are being called to step up, not blend in. In this episode, we get into the real work of influence: shaping narratives,...

My guest this week is Cailean Bailey, Head of Global Talent Acquisition at Design Pickle. We dive into what it really means to hire in the age of AI: and why it’s not about humans vs. machines, but about hiring humans who know how to use AI. Cailean brings a fresh and creative lens to recruiting, shaped by his years coaching Division I men’s soccer. At Design Pickle, he leads hiring across Technic...

In this episode, host Torund Bryhn dives into the world of communication with guest Kelly Leightner , an expert in sales and interpersonal connections. Kelly introduces us to an intriguing methodology, the bank code, designed to help individuals communicate effectively by understanding different personality types.  They explore how this system, originally developed to improve sales efficiency...

In this episode, host Torund Bryhn gets into the fascinating realm of AI in healthcare with guest David Schneider, the COO of Dane Health. With a rich background in the AI sphere and a personal connection to the healthcare industry, David shares insights into his work at Dane Health, an AI-powered clinical assessment company focused on brain health and injury recovery.  Discover how this inno...

In this exciting episode, Torund Bryhn, and special guest, Jeremy Whaley get into the fascinating era of Regenesis. They discuss how AI is transforming our industries, lifting us into a new age where creativity and entrepreneurship thrive.  With societal and economic cycles naturally evolving, now is the optimal time for individuals to plant the seeds of opportunity and redefine their persona...

In this episode, host Torund Bryhn is joined by guest Jeremy Whaley to get into the concept of the "Age of Regenesis." Jeremy, an expert in societal cycles, shares insights from his upcoming book, set to release in May, and a summit centered around this pivotal moment. Drawing inspiration from Neil Howe's book, "The Fourth Turning is Here," they explore how the current four-year window can shape t...

In this episode, host Torund Bryhn explores the transformative power of AI and its profound impact on our lives. Torund gets into how AI acts as our invisible workforce, simplifying tasks and empowering us to redefine our roles as public figures.  Drawing insights from the book "The Fourth Turning" by Neil Howe and upcoming guest Jeremy Whaley, Torund examines how the next four years will sha...

This episode introduces listeners to the exciting intersection of technology and the automotive industry. Host Torund Bryhn sits down with guest Michael R. Petersen, a technology expert who is making waves with his innovative company, Raise a Hood. Michael explains how Raise a Hood  utilizes artificial intelligence to empower car owners by providing transparent pricing and repair information,...

In this episode, listeners are invited to learn the intricacies of being a modern public figure. Host Torund Bryhn takes the audience through the evolving nature of fame, blending personal identity with public offering. With insights drawn from her interactions with visionary leaders and experiences in Hollywood and Washington, DC, Torund illustrates the balance between authenticity and intentiona...

In this thought-provoking episode, host Torund Bryhn is joined by entrepreneur and founder of Trade Maestro, Jeremy Whaley, in an insightful discussion about the evolution of influence, fame, and public presence in the digital age.  As Torund embarks on a rebranding journey from "Become Famous" to the "Public Figure Podcast," she and Jeremy explore the nuances of fame, the shifting landscape...

In this episode, host Torund Bryhn embarks on a transformative journey, reflecting on the evolution of fame and how societal changes have redefined our understanding of visibility and influence. Torund shares her personal revelations about the limitations of fame, highlighting the significance of credibility and the importance of becoming a respected public figure rather than just achieving notori...

The Become Famous podcast is now Public Figure Society Podcast In this episode, host Torund Bryhn presents the remarkable story of Işık Abla, a former would-be suicide bomber turned global minister. Işık's journey is one of astounding transformation, from her radicalized upbringing in Istanbul to becoming a beacon of hope for refugees, survivors of sex trafficking, and those seeking emotional and...

The Become Famous podcast is now Public Figure Society Podcast In this episode, host Torund Bryhn sits down with the multi-talented John DeDakis. John, a former CNN journalist and current novelist, is celebrated for his gripping Lark Chadwick mystery thriller series, with his latest release being "Enemies Domestic." Throughout this episode, listeners will be captivated by John’s seamless transitio...

The Become Famous podcast is now Public Figure Society Podcast In this episode, our host Torund Bryhn interviews the talented and innovative author Kalista Neith, who shares her fascinating journey in the literary world. Kalista discusses overcoming significant obstacles with print companies to ensure her books include the high-quality art that makes them stand out. She divulges her unique grassro...

The Become Famous podcast is now Public Figure Society Podcast In this episode, host Torund Bryhn introduces Dana Liesegang, an author and motivational speaker whose journey defies the odds. At 19, Dana suffered a brutal assault that left her a quadriplegic. Determined to overcome her limitations, she has achieved astounding milestones, such as breathing independently and driving a car. Her commit...

The Become Famous podcast is now Public Figure Society Podcast In this episode, host Torund Bryhn sits down with guest Heather Ferrari. Heather, who rose to prominence even before "influencer" became a buzzword, shares her journey from her Myspace days with a million daily visitors to her current ventures.  In this episode, they delve into the power of supportive friendships, the impact of wo...

In this episode host, Torund Bryhn, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Troy A. Miller, the CEO of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB). Listeners will journey with Troy as he recounts his inspiring path from a modest upbringing in Nebraska to leading a national advocacy organization. Highlighting the dual nature of technology, Miller discusses how intentional communication can h...

The Become Famous podcast is now Public Figure Society Podcast In this episode, host Torund Bryhn welcomes video marketing expert Nick Capozzi to discuss leveraging storytelling, video content, and community building for business success. Nick, hailing from Montreal and with extensive experience in both luxury goods and software, shares his unique approach to making bookkeeping engaging, transform...