Wealthy and Well-Known Podcast

What if the very thing you're walking through right now is preparing you for the impact you're meant to make?
In this deeply personal and eye-opening conversation, Rory sits down with real estate powerhouse and personal brand leader Dana Gentry to talk about the journey behind the success—one that started with panic attacks, addiction, and self-doubt, and led to faith-driven leadership, intentional living, and a thriving personal brand.
Dana shares how she went from being prescribed Xanax at 16 years old to leading one of the top real estate organizations in the country, overseeing more than $1.5 billion in annual transactions, mentoring hundreds of agents, and building a brand that attracts opportunity, trust, and influence.
This episode isn't just about real estate. It's about what it really takes to move from success to significance.
You'll learn:
Why personal branding is no longer optional—especially in times of market shift

How niching down (even to one building or one block) can create massive momentum

The biggest mistake professionals make when trying to grow their reputation

Why intentionality with your time, talent, and resources changes everything

How faith, discipline, and personal growth compound into long-term influence

Why your personal brand is the ultimate professional insurance policy

Dana also opens up about her faith journey, her struggle with anxiety, the power of mentorship, and why leaders must invest in themselves before they can truly lead others.
If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to stand out in a crowded market—this episode will challenge you, encourage you, and give you a clear path forward.
Because in today's world, the people who win aren't just the most talented—they're the most intentional and the most trusted.
🎙️ Tune in now and discover how building your personal brand can transform your business—and your life.
 
CLICK HERE to buy Dana's Book
CLICK HERE to listen to the Wealthy and Wellknown Audiobook FREE

What if the most devastating moment of your life became the launchpad for your greatest mission?
In this emotional and unforgettable episode, Rory Vaden sits down with Karen Mayer Cunningham—better known online as the "Special Education Boss"—whose personal journey through heartbreak, diagnosis, and systemic failure turned into a nationwide movement to change how we serve children with disabilities.
After being told her son would never speak or play with other kids, Karen refused to accept the status quo. Her raw determination led her from desperate mom to nationally recognized advocate, author of The Epic IEP, and online educator with over a million followers.
Listen as Karen shares:
The heartbreaking story that ignited her calling

How she built a thriving business from a place of service

Why niche audiences unlock the greatest impact and influence

The simple strategy behind her viral growth—no fancy tech, no big team

Her bold mindset around monetizing your mission without guilt

This episode is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose, purpose into platform, and platform into legacy. Whether you're a parent, educator, entrepreneur, or just someone with a calling—Karen's story will move you and motivate you.
 
To Buy Karen's Book "The Epic IEP", click HERE
CLICK HERE to listen to the Wealthy and Wellknown Audiobook FREE

What if your darkest moments could become your greatest breakthroughs?
In this jaw-dropping episode, Hal Elrod—best-selling author of The Miracle Morning—reveals the unfiltered story behind his miraculous life. From dying for six minutes in a car crash to beating a rare, aggressive cancer with a 30% survival rate, Hal opens up about the moments that could have destroyed him—but instead defined him.
You'll hear how the death of his baby sister planted the seed for a life of purpose, why discipline without identity won't last, and how your adversity might just be the preparation for your assignment. Rory Vaden sits down with Hal for an unforgettable conversation that unpacks not just how The Miracle Morning was born—but why it became a global movement that's changed millions of lives.
If you've ever doubted yourself, struggled to stay consistent, or felt stuck in your personal brand journey… this is the episode you didn't know you needed.
You'll learn:
The mindset shift that helped Hal walk again after being told he never would.

The practical framework behind the S.A.V.E.R.S. method—and how to stick with it.

Why who you become matters more than what you achieve.

How to build a personal brand that endures—and changes lives.

This isn't just inspiration—it's your wake-up call.

How do you grow your business without drowning in stress, chaos, and burnout? In this candid, behind-the-scenes episode of Wealthy & Well-Known, Rory and AJ Vaden open up about the realities of running multiple companies, raising a family, and building a personal brand—all while setting boundaries that protect their time, energy, and faith.
AJ shares the raw lessons learned from hustling through 80-hour workweeks, what finally made her redefine success, and how she now operates as a high-performing CEO with a schedule rooted in purpose—not pressure. You'll learn:
The real difference between growth and scale (and why getting it wrong can ruin your business)

How to create boundaries that fuel—not fight—your productivity

When it's time to hire, and how to make that decision before burnout hits

Why clarity around why you're scaling is the difference between thriving and burning out

If you're building something big but want to protect what matters most, this is your roadmap. It's honest. It's powerful. And it might just change how you lead forever.

How Niche Is Too Niche? Crafting a Story That Converts, Not Just Connects
Most people stumble when asked, "What do you do?" But in today's crowded marketplace, a vague story doesn't sell—it stalls. In this episode, AJ and Rory Vaden break down how to clarify your story, define your audience, and convert conversations into clients.
You'll learn how to:
Identify your niche through your personal story—not the other way around

Discern which version of your past self you're best positioned to serve

Create a simple but powerful elevator pitch that moves people to action

Use the "six-foot rule" to uncover hidden offline opportunities

Avoid the trap of telling stories that connect but don't convert

Whether you're speaking on stage, posting online, or standing in line at Starbucks—this episode will help you master the art of storyselling and turn everyday moments into meaningful business growth.