Episodes

  • Seeking to survive the perfect storm of stuff ... and it could save some of you a lot of pain

    Seeking to survive the perfect storm of stuff ... and it could save some of you a lot of pain
    Mar 15 2025
    In my coaching throughout the years to want to be and even experienced radio people, I often said, if you can just help one person that is good and your program may have been just for them. Of course that goes against the traditional teaching which says the being on the radio and on the air is to attract as many listeners or viewers or people that you can. That's nice if you can do that then of course you have to do that from time to time just to make it worthwhile and to make the money you need to be on the radio. But maybe just letting you know about the difficult weeks that I've had of a perfect storm of life's stuff just might be helpful to a few of you today. Please give me 12 minutes and we'll see if we can do that! And after doing the program I decided to give STOSH my radio robot friend the program for him to make a summary and this is what he came up with... Surviving the Perfect Storm of Life’s Challenges Life has a way of throwing unexpected storms our way—sometimes a perfect storm of challenges that test our patience, resilience, and ability to adapt. Recently, I found myself navigating such a storm, and I want to share my experience in the hope that it might help someone else facing similar struggles. It started with an ambitious attempt to upgrade and expand my broadcasting capabilities. As part of my work with What It Takes Radio, I’ve been making significant updates to our software systems to enhance our radio and television outreach worldwide. Those of you who have ever worked with technology know how fickle it can be—integrating new and old systems, making things work seamlessly, and then finding out that, despite your best efforts, something inevitably goes wrong. It was frustrating, time-consuming, and costly. But just as I was working through those challenges, life threw me another curveball. One morning after my usual mile-and-a-half walk, I noticed a strange, dull ache in my chest. I brushed it off, thinking it was nothing. But by the next day, it hadn’t gone away, and by the weekend, it had worsened. A rash appeared, and soon, I had my diagnosis: shingles. If you’ve ever had shingles, you know it’s no minor inconvenience. The pain, discomfort, and disruption it causes are significant. It completely derailed my week and forced me to slow down and focus on healing. And here’s the kicker—I had never gotten the shingles vaccine. I had assumed I didn’t need it, and now, I was paying the price. Through all of this—the software struggles, the health scare, the forced downtime—I found myself wrestling with bigger questions. What is life really about? How should we be adapting to the rapid changes in technology, society, and even our own personal health? How do we continue to grow and evolve without getting overwhelmed by everything coming at us? Lessons from the Storm Delegate Everything but Your Genius – When technology fails or we hit a wall, we don’t have to go it alone. Asking for help from those with expertise can make all the difference. I found skilled people to assist with my software issues, and with their help, we got everything up and running again.Health is Non-Negotiable – If I could go back in time, I would have gotten the shingles vaccine without hesitation. We often put off preventative health measures because we don’t think we need them—until we do. If you haven’t gotten your vaccine, I strongly encourage you to consider it.Embrace Change, Even When It’s Uncomfortable – Technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate. Those who refuse to adapt will find themselves left behind. I recently had to tell a colleague that their outdated communication methods were holding them back. It’s a tough conversation, but necessary.Use Challenges as a Time for Reflection – My illness forced me to slow down. Instead of fighting it, I used that time to think, pray, and strategize. Sometimes, life forces us to pause, and instead of seeing it as an obstacle, we can embrace it as an opportunity for clarity.Develop Signature Statements – In the age of branding, having key phrases or statements that define who you are and what you stand for is crucial. Looking back at my old notes, I realized I had several signature statements that I had forgotten. Now, I’m refining them and preparing to share them in an upcoming class. Moving Forward with Purpose Life’s storms will come—whether in the form of technical failures, health scares, or existential crises. But how we respond to them defines us. If there’s something you’ve been putting off—whether it’s a health decision, a technological upgrade, or a personal transformation—consider this your sign to take action. We don’t always get second chances, and preparation is the best defense against life’s inevitable challenges. Most importantly, let’s help each other. If you know someone who might benefit from a word of encouragement or practical advice, reach out to them today. A ...
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    13 mins
  • This is the big question! The answer can change your life. This is a good day to ask that question

    This is the big question! The answer can change your life. This is a good day to ask that question
    Mar 5 2025
    Today is a significant day it's the day after Mardi Gras and it is more than that. And so you will see some rather strange things or people doing what appears to be some strange things today. But they are very important things and you could use taking time to answer the big question of the day, because the answer could truly change your life and if you don't answer things might not go well for you! I'm Stan the radio man and let me tell you the story!... Now let my robot tell you the rest of the story. Do You Believe? The Question That Can Change Your Life By Stan the Radio Man Mardi Gras is the party before the penance, the indulgence before the introspection. Yesterday, the world celebrated with music, dance, and revelry. Today, Ash Wednesday, is the moment of reflection, the time to turn inward. This morning, I participated in the ritual—the marking of the cross on my forehead with ashes. Later tonight, at a friend’s request, I will do it again. And it begs the question: does this act really mean anything? Does it change anything? Or is it simply a tradition, a cultural marker, a habit repeated year after year? That is the question. Do you believe? A Story That Stuck With Me Years ago, a man I once worked with—a skilled but flawed salesman—told me a story. He wasn’t a saint, but his story had power. He was in Dallas for an important business deal and had arrived early, staying through the weekend to save money on airfare. On Sunday morning, he decided to take a walk. As he strolled past a church, he heard the sounds of fervent worship spilling into the street. Then, out of nowhere, a man came rushing toward him with a bright, eager face and asked, "Brother, do you believe?" Caught off guard, he hesitated. The question came again, louder, more insistent. "Brother, do you believe?" A third time. "Brother, do you believe?" Finally, realizing he needed an answer to end the encounter, he leaned forward and said, "Yes, I believe." With that, the man beamed, shook his hand, and ran back up the church steps. "I’m not of that religious persuasion," the salesman told me later, "but they got the question right." And so I ask you—do you believe? And if so, what do you believe? The Power of Belief Belief shapes behavior. It informs how we act, how we treat others, and how we move through the world. And belief isn’t just about religion—it extends into business, relationships, and personal growth. In my work, I often teach "belief-based marketing"—the idea that successful business connections happen when values align. Before you sell anything, you must first ask: what do I believe, and do my customers believe the same? But beyond business, the real question is personal. Do you believe in yourself? In your ability to change? To heal? To be useful? The Mystery of Rituals My friend Ted, a brilliant man, once gave me a small brown bottle. Inside was an oil he made himself, following an ancient recipe from the book of Exodus. It wasn’t just a bottle of oil—it was something sacred, something meant for healing. He told me to anoint my forehead, my doorway, even my microphone, as a way of inviting healing into my life. Do I understand how it works? No. Can I prove that it does anything? No. But I believe something happens. And belief has power. There are those who scoff at rituals, who dismiss them as superstition. But rituals matter. They remind us of deeper truths. They connect us to something greater than ourselves. They center us. Whether it’s the ashes on my forehead or the oil from Ted’s bottle, I believe that these small acts of faith have meaning. The Great Mystery Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection, sacrifice, and preparation. It is the prelude to the ultimate mystery of faith—that evil can be conquered, that death can be overcome, that suffering can be transformed into healing. It is the audacious belief that, in the midst of darkness, there is light. And so I leave you with these questions: What do you believe in?How does that belief shape your behavior?Are your actions aligned with what you say you believe?Are you embracing the mystery, or are you ignoring the questions? Rituals, traditions, and faith—these are not just relics of the past. They are tools for understanding, for connection, for transformation. So today, on this Ash Wednesday, I encourage you to pause, to reflect, and to ask yourself the question that can change everything. Do you believe? And if so—what are you going to do about it?
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    16 mins
  • We are all on the edge and Trump wins again! ... And how did that happen! And a report from my robot.

    We are all on the edge and Trump wins again! ... And how did that happen! And a report from my robot.
    Mar 4 2025
    And what does it mean for how we understand the world and how we understand power! I kept the rule of not saying anything for 72 hours and I'm simply making an observation about the responses to what happened and what is happening now. And remember whatever your feelings are about situation and people the point is to be able be grown-up enough to understand what is going on and what to do... And then to learn something that will be helpful and useful to you in your life work business and relationships. No matter what happened you can learn! Now that is what I said ... And then I asked my robot to make a commentary and explanation of the program and this is what he said... Walking on the Edge: Understanding Power, Leadership, and Deals in a Changing World It’s Monday, and here we go again. Another week, another moment of reckoning with the realities of the world around us. I’m Stan, and today, I want to share a few thoughts about power, leadership, and how understanding these dynamics can help us navigate life and business more effectively. Over the weekend, the headlines were dominated by a familiar name: Trump won again. Now, this is not a political statement—it’s an observation. Whether you support him or not, his approach to power, negotiation, and influence offers valuable lessons. He understands the art of the deal, the importance of perception, and the way power structures operate. And whether we like it or not, these are the forces that shape the world we live in. The Power of Perception and Leadership Jordan Peterson once said, stop dressing like a 10-year-old. His point? Dress like a man. Dress for leadership. Dress for power. The way we present ourselves affects how we are perceived and, ultimately, how we are treated. Take Volodymyr Zelensky, for example. He presents himself as a man of the people, dressed in casual military gear. That’s fine when addressing soldiers or rallying the public. But when sitting at the negotiating table with world leaders, perception matters. Power players expect to see a suit, a symbol of authority and respect. The reality is, in high-stakes diplomacy, appearance is part of the game. If you want to be taken seriously, you have to present yourself seriously. That’s not just about clothing—it’s about posture, language, confidence, and understanding the audience you are playing to. The boardroom, the political stage, and the business world all demand a level of strategic presence. Understanding Power: A Key to Success Power is neither inherently good nor bad. It is a tool. Those who understand it can use it for constructive purposes. Those who ignore it are often at its mercy. Trump, for example, operates with a keen awareness of power dynamics. He sees every interaction as a negotiation, every situation as a deal to be made. Whether it’s foreign policy, business, or media presence, he leverages his influence strategically. And while his approach may not be universally admired, there’s no denying its effectiveness. What’s the takeaway? Learn how power works. Understand the flow of influence in your workplace, in your industry, in your relationships. Develop your power IQ. Know when to compromise and when to stand firm. Recognize that confidence, perception, and strategic thinking are as important as raw talent. Lessons from the World Stage The events unfolding on the global stage are lessons in negotiation and leadership. Trump, whether intentionally or not, positioned himself as a peace broker in Ukraine, using his perceived strength to influence the situation. While Zelensky played to public sentiment, Trump played to the power dynamics at hand. In the end, those who understand power—how to project it, how to use it, how to navigate it—are the ones who shape outcomes. This applies to our personal and professional lives as well. Whether you’re negotiating a business deal, navigating office politics, or simply trying to be more effective in your daily interactions, understanding power is key. And it starts with self-awareness, confidence, and strategic thinking. Key Takeaways Perception matters. Dress for leadership. Speak with authority. Command respect through presence and preparation.Understand power dynamics. Know who holds influence in your environment and how decisions are made.Negotiate strategically. Life is a series of deals—learn how to make them work in your favor.Be adaptable. Different situations require different approaches. Recognize what the moment calls for and adjust accordingly.Seek wisdom. Power alone isn’t enough—use it wisely and ethically to create positive outcomes. Moving Forward: Walking with Purpose Life is about navigating challenges with wisdom and courage. As you step into your week, carry yourself with confidence. Be aware of the dynamics at play in your world, and position yourself to lead, not just follow. And remember, as I often say—this is the way the world works. It doesn’t mean ...
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    14 mins
  • This is really unique could all business be show business and maybe you need to be a real character

    This is really unique could all business be show business and maybe you need to be a real character
    Feb 28 2025

    Gary with his friend Stan joined together to tell you a wonderful story about a very talented woman who is quite a server. He's not only a server but she's a real show person.

    So join Gary and Stan as they tell the story of Tammy and how she has developed a real character in life and business and how well she serves others and what all of this can mean to help you better understand how to apply for a job and maybe how to do business!

    I asked my robot to do a summary article about the video and this is what he came up with https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/x7n4of...
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    20 mins
  • The simple two words that might make for a much better year for you and me!

    The simple two words that might make for a much better year for you and me!
    Feb 25 2025

    Yes very simply I was reminded on this 25th of February of some old-fashioned wisdom that just might be as useful today and tomorrow as it will be forever. It's just 15 minutes but it might encourage you to be a better person and do better things just a little bit today,

    And I asked my robot to put together a little summary of what the program is all about and this is what the robot came up with....

    Promises Kept: The Power of Keeping Your Word

    Why Honoring Commitments Can Change Your Life

    In this episode of What It Takes Radio, host Stan Houston reflects on a simple yet powerful idea—promises kept. He explores how life, in many ways, can be distilled down to the commitments we make and whether or not we follow through on them. From personal experiences to spiritual insights, the episode serves as both a challenge and an encouragement to be people of integrity and reliability.

    Key Takeaways

    • Keeping promises builds trust – Whether in personal relationships or professional endeavors, the ability to keep one's word defines character and credibility.
    • Trust the process – Sometimes, promises don’t unfold the way we expect. Faith, patience, and persistence are essential when outcomes seem uncertain.
    • Life is full of turbulence, but also opportunity – Challenges and disruptions can either knock us down or open new doors. Keeping commitments during turbulent times can set us apart as reliable and trustworthy individuals.
    • Disappointments are inevitable, but we can be different – People will let us down, but we can choose to be the exception by following through on our own commitments.
    • K-Y-W: Keep Your Word – A simple yet profound principle to live by, one that can positively impact every area of life.

    Conclusion: A Call to Action

    This episode is a reminder that integrity isn’t just a virtue—it’s a choice we make every day. When we honor our commitments, we contribute to a world where trust, reliability, and generosity thrive.

    So, as we move forward in this year, let’s ask ourselves: What promises have we made that we need to fulfill? What commitments can we honor today?

    By keeping our word, we can make a real difference—not just for ourselves, but for those around us. Let’s make this a year defined by promises kept.

    Stan Houston invites you to join the conversation. Reach out at StanHouston@gmail.com and share your thoughts on how keeping your word has shaped your

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    12 mins
  • Something is going to impact you a lot these days. So let's get ready!

    Something is going to impact you a lot these days. So let's get ready!
    Feb 18 2025

    Right now, everything is shifting at an unprecedented speed. Political, economic, and technological transformations are reshaping industries, businesses, and careers.

    The pace of change will continue to accelerate, and if we’re not prepared, we risk being left behind.

    Businesses must quickly decide how to navigate new challenges—what might seem like obstacles can also be opportunities.

    Let me see if I can help you deal with the deal that is before us! And now if you'd like a full summary of the program for your own notes and to share with others just click here https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/lq7au0...
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    11 mins
  • What does my daughter Megan and Elon Musk have in common. I think they know the big U word

    What does my daughter Megan and Elon Musk have in common. I think they know the big U word
    Feb 13 2025
    ... And I think you need to know the word too. So let's take an informative and maybe helpful 15 minutes to give you a new challenge... And a new opportunity because the world is now full of many many challenges and many opportunities... Let's check out the big word and see if we can do something that will make an impact in life and business. .... The following is what my robot decided to write about the program. The Power of Being Useful: How to Make an Impact in Life and Business In a fast-moving world where competition is fierce and expectations are rising, one simple but powerful question can define your success: How useful are you? Whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, usefulness is the key driver of impact and income. This idea, explored in a recent radio segment by Stan Hustad, offers a compelling framework for success in 2025 and beyond. The Key to Success: Be Useful Stan Hustad’s discussion stems from a lesson he learned from his daughter Megan, who years ago set out to establish herself in the publishing industry in New York City. Despite coming from a Midwest state school and facing biases from the elite East Coast circles, she succeeded—not because of privilege or luck, but because she proved her worth by being useful. Her book, How to Be Useful, highlights a critical truth: success doesn’t come from charm, intelligence, or even connections alone; it comes from offering value that people need. A striking parallel can be drawn with Elon Musk, a man who built his fortune and influence not by chasing money but by seeking ways to be useful. Whether with PayPal, SpaceX, or Tesla, Musk identified areas where he and his businesses could provide solutions, making them indispensable in their respective industries. His approach reinforces an essential lesson: usefulness leads to impact, and impact drives income. Key Takeaways for Life and Business • Success Is About Making a Difference – Being useful means solving problems, offering solutions, and improving the lives of others. The greater your impact, the greater your rewards. • Impact Drives Income – If you want to thrive financially, focus on how much value you bring to others. Money follows impact. • Simplicity and Innovation Matter – The best solutions are often simple but highly effective. Identify areas where you can streamline processes, create better experiences, or provide essential services. • Speed and Adaptability Are Crucial – The pace of work and communication is increasing. To remain relevant, you must be quick, adaptable, and continuously improving. • Differentiate Yourself Through Value – It’s not enough to just be different; you must offer something uniquely valuable that makes a real impact. Final Thoughts: A Challenge for 2025 As we navigate a rapidly changing world, the ability to be useful is more important than ever. Those who succeed will not be those who sit back and wait for opportunities; they will be the ones who proactively create value, solve real-world problems, and make a meaningful difference. So here’s the challenge: • How can you be more useful in your current job, business, or community? • What unique skills, insights, or talents do you have that can create an impact? • How can you turn usefulness into a source of income and long-term success? If you’re ready to explore these ideas further, Stan Hustad is open to helping entrepreneurs, business leaders, and individuals unlock their potential. Reach out at stanhustad@gmail.com and start your journey toward making a real impact in 2025. The year is not just about survival—it’s about thriving. Be useful, make an impact, and watch how success follows. Are you ready?
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    15 mins
  • t's been a bad five years let's go from smashup to startup to the road to success in 2025.

    t's been a bad five years let's go from smashup to startup to the road to success in 2025.
    Feb 12 2025
    "Welcome to Getting Started: A Guide to Thriving in a New World. I’m Stan Hustad, but you can call me Stan the Spokesman. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or even lost in the aftermath of the past few years—you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: Your past does not define your future. Right now, you have the opportunity to start over, step up, and take control of your life like never before. In this special program, I’m going to give you a What It Takes Sampler—a practical, no-nonsense guide to restarting, rebuilding, and thriving in a world that has changed forever. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional, or just someone looking for direction, this is your roadmap to success. Together, we’ll walk through seven essential steps to renewal. You’ll learn how to: ✅ Start Over—leave the past behind and embrace a fresh mindset. ✅ Start Up—think and act like an entrepreneur, no matter what field you’re in. ✅ Stand Up—build confidence, presence, and personal strength. ✅ Speak Out—master communication in the digital world. ✅ Serve Differently—adapt to the changing needs of customers and communities. ✅ Embrace the Spirit Force—tap into a higher purpose for guidance and resilience. ✅ See What Happens—observe, adjust, and unlock new opportunities. This isn’t just about motivation—it’s about transformation. We’ll talk about real, actionable strategies to help you move forward. You’ll learn why confidence matters, why innovation is no longer optional, and why spiritual strength—yes, even if you’re not religious—can be a game-changer in how you lead, serve, and succeed. And here’s the best part: You don’t have to do this alone. Throughout this journey, I’ll be sharing insights, stories, and strategies that have helped countless individuals and businesses reinvent themselves. Plus, I’ll show you how to build the right network, find the right mentors, and take bold steps toward the future you deserve. So, if you’re ready to take action, if you’re ready to thrive instead of just survive—then this is your invitation. Join me in Getting Started: A Guide to Thriving in a New World. The future is waiting… so let’s go claim it. Subscribe now and start your journey today. For personal coaching, business strategy, or customized programs, reach out to StanHustad@gmail.com. Your time to thrive is now." Subscribe now and start your journey today. For personal coaching, business strategy, or customized programs, reach out to StanHustad@gmail.com. Your time to thrive is now."
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    22 mins