The Professional Experts Podcast

Sonny Melendrez joined me for one of the most joyful conversations I have had on this podcast. Sonny is a Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame inductee, a Disney Channel pioneer, a voice artist mentored by Mel Blanc himself, and a professional speaker whose career spans more than five decades. But what struck me most was not the resume. It was the thread running through all of it: a kid in a tree house, dreaming without limits, who simply never stopped.The Dream Does Not Wait for the ReadySonny grew up behind his father's barbershop, calling friends one at a time from a payphone, playing his little homemade radio shows into the receiver. He was podcasting before the word existed. What he was really doing was giving himself permission. That is the principle I kept returning to in our conversation. Dreams find people who have no idea they are ready. They found Sonny in San Antonio. They found me in Little Rock. The question is whether you give them room to grow.Intentional Enthusiasm as a Way of LifeSonny coined the phrase intentional enthusiasm, and he lives it fully. He reflected on three things that powered every success in his career: belief in himself, a clear vision of what he wanted, and gratitude as a daily practice. He writes his goals. He begins each morning in quiet. He treats every relationship as a door with a small glass window, waiting to be opened. That is not a technique. That is a way of being.What We CoveredWe talked about breaking into voice work and radio with nothing but a transistor radio and a dream. We traced Sonny's path from San Antonio college radio to KMPC in Los Angeles, from Hanna-Barbera Studios with Mel Blanc to becoming the first male host on the Disney Channel. We talked about gratitude as spiritual magnetism, the Walt Disney and Mike Vance story about fulfillment, and why the child inside you is not something to outgrow.Find Sonny MelendrezYou can reach Sonny at sonnymelendrez.com and across all major platforms. Look him up. His story will stay with you.In the spirit of growth. About the Host: Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies. Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award. Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits. Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches. https://cathcart.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/ https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcart https://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcart Tedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs

In this inspiring episode, Dave Kaufman shares his remarkable transformation from growing up on an Amish farm to becoming a renowned business coach and expert. Learn how he built multiple successful companies, mastered the DISC personality assessment, and developed a coaching philosophy centered on helping small businesses find freedom and success. Dave reveals his secrets to professional growth, the importance of serving others, and how becoming an expert in one area can unlock incredible opportunities. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode offers powerful insights into building a meaningful and impactful career.About the Host:Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.8 million views, his 27 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.Jim has written 27 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.https://cathcart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcarthttps://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcartTedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs

Defining The Professional Expert. What does it really mean to be a “professional expert?” In this episode The Professional Experts Podcast, host Jim Cathcart interviews one of the newest CPEs, Dr. Terry Paulson, author, psychologist, professional speaker, political commentator and novelist. Terry is one of the most diplomatic and intelligent people of character that Jim has ever known. They dive into the evolving world of experts who make their unique skills the core of their careers—whether they’re coaches, consultants, speakers, or authors. The spotlight is on how professionalism, not just subject mastery, defines a true pro.About the Host:Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.6 million views, his 25 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.Jim has written 25 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.https://cathcart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcarthttps://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcartTedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs

What if the secret to captivating any audience wasn’t just in what you say—but in how you say it? In this episode, Patricia Fripp, a Hall of Fame speaker and expert speech coach, shares her journey from being a San Francisco hairdresser to becoming one of the most in-demand speaking coaches in the world. Along the way, she reveals powerful insights on communication, personal branding, and the business of expertise.With decades of experience coaching top-tier speakers and business leaders, she reveals key strategies for making your message unforgettable. From choosing the right business model to developing a powerful stage presence, her advice is practical, actionable, and backed by real-world success. Her deep industry knowledge and engaging storytelling make this episode a goldmine for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills.Whether you're a speaker, consultant, author, or entrepreneur, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped with tools to elevate your influence. Tune in as Jim Cathcart and Patricia Fripp discuss what it takes to go from being competent to becoming a leading authority in your field. If you want to captivate audiences and build a business around your expertise, this episode is a must-listen.About the Host:Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.6 million views, his 25 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.Jim has written 25 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.https://cathcart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcarthttps://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcartTedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs

What if success isn’t about chasing dreams but learning how to catch them? Meet Kevin Davis, a visionary entrepreneur who has cracked the code to achieving your dreams. He takes us on his incredible journey from small-town Kentucky to building a thriving multi-state quick-lube business. Through grit, determination, and his Align, Chart, Navigate framework, Kevin reveals how he transformed obstacles into opportunities, becoming a Certified Professional Expert and an inspiring leader.Kevin shares the powerful life lessons he’s learned, including the importance of mentorship, building scalable systems, and leading with integrity. He explains how aligning your passions, charting your goals, and navigating challenges can help you turn aspirations into a purpose-driven life.Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or someone seeking clarity, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Discover how to become a "Dream Catcher" and live a life that inspires and empowers others.About the Host:Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.6 million views, his 25 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.Jim has written 25 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.https://cathcart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcarthttps://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcartTedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs

In this episode, host Jim Cathcart is joined by Ron Karr, a distinguished Certified Professional Expert and the creator of the "Velocity Mindset." Known for his profound insights and strategic approach, Ron Karr discusses the essence of effective leadership and communication, advocating the importance of listening to and understanding audience needs to drive meaningful engagement. He elaborates on the evolution of the "Titan Principle" into "Lead, Sell or Get Out of the Way," providing a framework for unifying corporate cultures and enhancing performance.Ron shares compelling examples from his career, demonstrating how focusing on significant problem-solving has led to substantial outcomes, including helping a company recoup $8 million and facilitating a $1 billion business unit sale. The episode underscores the value of aligning actions with clear goals and purposes and explores how the art of pause and strategic questioning can redefine leadership and client interactions.This episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and achieve measurable success through purposeful actions. Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that promises to deliver valuable lessons and strategies from one of the industry's leading minds. Tune in to discover how to transform your approach to consulting and leadership with the profound insights of Ron Karr.About the Host:Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.6 million views, his 25 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.Jim has written 25 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.https://cathcart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcarthttps://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcartTedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs

Hosted by Jim Cathcart, today's episode tackles the compelling subject of instinct training within the context of the ongoing debate between nurture versus nature. The discussion features insights from esteemed guests Mike Graham. Throughout the episode, the journey from unconscious incompetence to unconscious competence is explored, emphasizing the critical role of intentional living and the transformative power of writing down goals. Mike shares profound lessons from his multifaceted career, highlighting how gratitude, effective mentorship, and the reframing of failures as learning opportunities can drive both personal and professional success.The discussion underscores the importance of self-belief and maintaining professional ethics, alongside an exploration of how education shapes the perception of mistakes. Mike introduces the concept of risk management through his principle, "predictable is preventable," offering listeners a framework for navigating both routine and extraordinary challenges. This episode promises to be a serious and insightful examination of human potential and instinct retraining.About the Host:Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is one of the top 5 most award-winning speakers in the world. His Top 1% TEDx video has over 2.6 million views, his 25 books are translated into multiple languages, including 3 International bestsellers. He is a Certified Virtual Presenter and past National President of the National Speakers Association. Jim’s PBS television programs, podcast appearances and radio shows have reached millions of Success Seekers and he is often retained to advise achievers and their companies.Even his colleagues, some of the top speakers in the world, have hired Jim to speak at their own events. Jim is an Executive MBA Professor at California Lutheran University School of Management and serves as their first Entrepreneur in Residence. He has been inducted into the Sales & Marketing Hall of Fame in London for his pioneering work with his concept of “Relationship Selling.” He is also in the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame and has received The Cavett Award and The Golden Gavel Award.Jim has written 25 books, hundreds of articles and he is always writing at least one new book. His most recent book is HI-REV for Small Business, The Faster Way to Profits . Audiences buy his books by the hundreds and he happily adds autograph sessions to his speeches.https://cathcart.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathcartinstitute/https://www.facebook.com/jim.cathcarthttps://www.youtube.com/user/jimcathcartTedx: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ki9-oaPwHs