• How She Built a $300K Brand From Her Kitchen | Hot Seat W/ David Shands #87
    Oct 14 2025

    This is one of the most emotional episodes of The Hot Seat yet.

    David Shands sits down with the founder of Klarity Kosmetics, a woman who built a six-figure makeup brand while surviving trauma most people couldn’t imagine. From childhood abuse to motherhood, to raising children with special needs, she shares the pain behind her purpose, and how she turned it into a $300K beauty business.


    What starts as a conversation about business quickly becomes a breakthrough on confidence, faith, and self-worth.
David challenges her beliefs, breaks down her fears, and helps her finally see the magic in herself that everyone else already sees.

    If you’ve ever doubted yourself, wanted to quit, or felt like your past disqualified your future, this episode will remind you that you’re already enough and your best days aren’t behind you.


    🎯 Highlights:

    * Overcoming childhood trauma and rebuilding self-belief

    * How she built Clarity Cosmetics from her kitchen

    * Scaling to over $300,000 in sales

    * Balancing motherhood, faith, and entrepreneurship

    * David’s advice on confidence and calling


    📍 Watch full episode of The Hot Seat with David Shands
#SocialProofPodcast #DavidShands #HotSeat #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #Faith #TraumaToTriumph #ClarityCosmetics



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • The Journey That Reshaped More Than Just Her body - Hot Seat W/ David Shands #86
    Oct 1 2025
    In this hot seat episode, David Shands coaches Eleni, founder of That Mom Club, through the challenges of building a paid community. Eleni shares her story of being a young mom, losing 70 pounds, and wanting to create a supportive space for mothers. But as the conversation unfolds, David points out that the biggest issue isn’t her effort — it’s her lack of clarity about who her ideal client is and what problem she’s solving for them.He roleplays as a struggling mom to show Eleni how vague her answers sound when asked, “Why should I join your community?” and pushes her to define real outcomes instead of buzzwords like “self-care” or “back to the basics.” Together, they build a sharper message using the “XYZ statement” (I help X do Y by Z) and even create a framework (Systems, Community, Accountability, Money) that her brand could be structured around.A powerful moment comes when David explains that her personal journey — losing weight, gaining some back, and trying again — could actually become the story that attracts and inspires moms if she documents it publicly. The key lesson of the episode: you can’t grow a thriving business or community until you deeply understand your customer and the problem you solve for them.Click Here To Apply to the Hot Seat: https://forms.gle/Ba4tqWzmepKy3gMT7Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube: / @hotseatsp On Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...On Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5z...Shira Simmons on IG: / butshefinetho ** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : / dshands NOTE: I am a Brand Ambassador and affiliate for certain businesses, products and services that I believe in. I may have referenced these and included links in this video, description or someplace else at this site. I hope you find the resources helpful.Copyright, Liability Waiver and Disclaimers. All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, except as permitted under the United States Copyright Act, and/or without the prior express written permission of David Shands, LLC, The Real Social Proof, LLC and/or David Shands.Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While all persons associated directly or indirectly with this site and video use their best efforts in preparing the content, there is no express or implied representations or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the content of the videos, including any content, links or resources shared, including those by third parties. Furthermore, all parties specifically disclaim any and all express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. No legal or investment advice is being given herein. You should consult with a professional where appropriate and before any action is taken on this video. No liability or damages shall take place because of this video and/or content. Furthermore, your use of this site and watching these videos confirms your agreement that Georgia or Delaware law applies to all disputes relating to this site and videos and, venue for all claims and disputes relating to this site and videos shall be in Atlanta, Ga.The information provided at this web site and all related platforms, services, newsletters, blogs, emails, messages, audios, videos, and all other traditional and digital communications, and social media platforms including, but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, blockchain related including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), other blockchain projects, synthetic media, and all others, IS NOT LEGAL, FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT OR BUSINESS ADVICE.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • This Is Why Your Podcast Won’t Work Without a Target Audience Hot Seat W David Shands #85
    Sep 16 2025

    James Banks III jumps into the Hot Seat to get real feedback on his new podcast idea, and it gets BRUTAL. From unclear messaging to trying to target “everybody,” the hard truth comes out: if you’re talking to everyone, you’re really talking to no one.

    In this episode, we break down:

    • 🎯 Why trying to reach 18–40 year olds won’t work (and what to do instead)
    • 🧩 How to find YOUR unique twist so your podcast stands out
    • 💡 The 3 steps to make content that actually compels people to listen
    • 🙌 How faith, business, and personal storytelling can fuel real influence

    This isn’t just about James — it’s about YOU. If you’ve been struggling to grow your podcast, business, or brand… this conversation will show you the blind spots holding you back.

    👉 Drop a comment: Do you think it’s better to focus on one audience… or try to reach them all?

    👉 Subscribe for more hot seat sessions, unfiltered coaching, and real stories from the Social Proof community.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
    Show More Show Less
    56 mins
  • This Is What a Terrible Digital Marketer Looks Like - Hot Seat w/ David Shands #84
    Sep 9 2025

    Ever met someone who claims they “run ads”… but really, they just shoot videos? 🎥💸

    In this Hot Seat Episode David Shands exposes the brutal truth about what separates a real digital marketer from a terrible one.

    👉 Are you actually running ads — or just wasting money?

    Watch as we break down:

    • Why most videographers fail when they call themselves “marketers”
    • The difference between creating content vs. creating conversions
    • The REAL way to run ads without burning your client’s budget
    • How to build systems that actually generate leads

    🔥 If you’ve ever wondered why your ads aren’t working, this clip is a wake-up call.

    👇 Drop a comment: Do you think most digital marketers are terrible… or just misunderstood?

    #HotSeat #DavidShands #DigitalMarketing #PodcastSummit2025 #AdsThatConvert


    👉🏾 Join the Morning Meetup - http://www.themorningmeetup.com⁣


    Click Here To Apply to the Hot Seat: https://forms.gle/Ba4tqWzmepKy3gMT7

    Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube:

    https://www.youtube.com/@hotseatsp?sub_confirmation=1


    On Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-seat-with-david-shands/id1751210337

    On Spotify:

    https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5zXzYydyNYRf9QYHj?si=f8058395400c4ef0

    Shira Simmons on IG: https://www.instagram.com/butshefinetho/


    ** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **


    http://www.podcastebook.com


    GO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!


    David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/


    NOTE: I am a Brand Ambassador and affiliate for certain businesses, products and services that I believe in. I may have referenced these and included links in this video, description or someplace else at this site. I hope you find the resources helpful.


    Copyright, Liability Waiver and Disclaimers. All rights reserved.


    No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, except as permitted under the United States Copyright Act, and/or without the prior express written permission of David Shands, LLC, The Real Social Proof, LLC and/or David Shands.



    Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While all persons associated directly or indirectly with this site and video use their best efforts in preparing the content, there is no express or implied representations or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the content of the videos, including any content, links or resources shared, including those by third parties. Furthermore, all parties specifically disclaim any and all express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.


    The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. No legal or investment advice is being given herein. You should consult with a professional where appropriate and before any action is taken on this video. No liability or damages shall take place because of this video and/or content. Furthermore, your use of this site and watching these videos confirms your agreement that Georgia or Delaware law applies to all disputes relating to this site and videos and, venue for all claims and disputes relating to this site and videos shall be in Atlanta, Ga.


    The information provided at this web site and all related platforms, services, newsletters, blogs, emails, messages, audios, videos, and all other traditional and digital communications, and social media platforms including, but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, blockchain related including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), other blockchain projects, synthetic media, and all others, IS NOT LEGAL, FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT OR BUSINESS ADVICE.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
    Show More Show Less
    28 mins
  • Should You PAY to Learn the Bible? Right or Wrong? | Hot Seat w/ David Shands
    Sep 2 2025
    In this episode of The Hot Seat, we sit down with Nicole Henderson, a marketplace minister and founder of CNA & Associates, a nonprofit consulting firm serving clients in 46 states with a stated 100% 501(c)(3) approval track record. She also leads Simplify Life with God, a new faith-based community where she teaches courses on visions & dreams, prayer, and walking in purpose without the burnout.We get into the real stuff:Marketplace Ministry 101: what it is and how to serve where you workNonprofits beyond grants: social enterprise models (yes, we talk Girl Scout cookies)Hearing God vs. hearing yourself: practical steps (prayer, fasting, counsel)Charging for faith education: is it okay to sell a “how to study the Bible” course?Bold beliefs on salvation: the tension between love, truth, and public platformsDreams, symbols & purpose: how she teaches interpretation and why it mattersFrom hustle to grace: shifting from grind culture to rest and restorationIf you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or a ministry leader trying to reconcile faith + business, this conversation will challenge you to clarify your convictions, refine your methods, and lead with courage.👇 WATCH UNTIL THE END for real talk on:🔹 Family disconnect🔹 Escaping toxicity🔹 Turning pain into purpose🔹 Why connection matters more than ever👉🏾 Join the Morning Meetup - http://www.themorningmeetup.com⁣Click Here To Apply to the Hot Seat: https://forms.gle/Ba4tqWzmepKy3gMT7Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube: / @hotseatsp On Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...On Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5z...Shira Simmons on IG: / butshefinetho ** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **http://www.podcastebook.comGO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!David on IG : / dshands NOTE: I am a Brand Ambassador and affiliate for certain businesses, products and services that I believe in. I may have referenced these and included links in this video, description or someplace else at this site. I hope you find the resources helpful.Copyright, Liability Waiver and Disclaimers. All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, except as permitted under the United States Copyright Act, and/or without the prior express written permission of David Shands, LLC, The Real Social Proof, LLC and/or David Shands.Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While all persons associated directly or indirectly with this site and video use their best efforts in preparing the content, there is no express or implied representations or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the content of the videos, including any content, links or resources shared, including those by third parties. Furthermore, all parties specifically disclaim any and all express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. No legal or investment advice is being given herein. You should consult with a professional where appropriate and before any action is taken on this video. No liability or damages shall take place because of this video and/or content. Furthermore, your use of this site and watching these videos confirms your agreement that Georgia or Delaware law applies to all disputes relating to this site and videos and, venue for all claims and disputes relating to this site and videos shall be in Atlanta, Ga.The information provided at this web site and all related platforms, services, newsletters, blogs, emails, messages, audios, videos, and all other traditional and digital communications, and social media platforms including, but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, blockchain related including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), other blockchain projects, synthetic media, and all others, IS NOT LEGAL, FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT OR BUSINESS ADVICE.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
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    58 mins
  • From Burnout to Breakthrough: A Hairstylist's Emotional Journey The Hot Seat w/ David Shands #83
    Aug 14 2025

    In this deeply moving episode of The Hot Seat, we sit down with Kierra Shelton, a 20-year professional hairstylist from Memphis, TN, who's not only mastered her craft behind the chair but is now on a mission to leave a lasting legacy through her new passion project — a journal called "Family Wealth of Knowledge."


    From the daily grind of hairstyling to the emotional toll of strained family relationships and escaping an abusive marriage, Kierra opens up about:

    ✨ How burnout sparked a desire to create something timeless

    ✨ The inspiration behind her legacy journal for families

    ✨ Her powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and reclaiming her identity

    ✨ What it really means to love yourself when no one else shows up


    Whether you're a creative, entrepreneur, or someone rebuilding after personal challenges, this story will inspire, challenge, and uplift you.


    👇 WATCH UNTIL THE END for real talk on:

    🔹 Family disconnect

    🔹 Escaping toxicity

    🔹 Turning pain into purpose

    🔹 Why connection matters more than ever


    👉🏾 Join the Morning Meetup - http://www.themorningmeetup.com⁣


    Click Here To Apply to the Hot Seat: https://forms.gle/Ba4tqWzmepKy3gMT7

    Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube:

    https://www.youtube.com/@hotseatsp?sub_confirmation=1


    On Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hot-seat-with-david-shands/id1751210337

    On Spotify:

    https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5zXzYydyNYRf9QYHj?si=f8058395400c4ef0

    Shira Simmons on IG: https://www.instagram.com/butshefinetho/


    ** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **


    http://www.podcastebook.com


    GO SUBSCRIBE to The Brain Picker Podcast on All Streaming Platforms!!


    David on IG : https://www.instagram.com/dshands/


    NOTE: I am a Brand Ambassador and affiliate for certain businesses, products and services that I believe in. I may have referenced these and included links in this video, description or someplace else at this site. I hope you find the resources helpful.


    Copyright, Liability Waiver and Disclaimers. All rights reserved.


    No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, except as permitted under the United States Copyright Act, and/or without the prior express written permission of David Shands, LLC, The Real Social Proof, LLC and/or David Shands.



    Limit of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty: While all persons associated directly or indirectly with this site and video use their best efforts in preparing the content, there is no express or implied representations or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the content of the videos, including any content, links or resources shared, including those by third parties. Furthermore, all parties specifically disclaim any and all express or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.


    The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation. No legal or investment advice is being given herein. You should consult with a professional where appropriate and before any action is taken on this video. No liability or damages shall take place because of this video and/or content. Furthermore, your use of this site and watching these videos confirms your agreement that Georgia or Delaware law applies to all disputes relating to this site and videos and, venue for all claims and disputes relating to this site and videos shall be in Atlanta, Ga.


    The information provided at this web site and all related platforms, services, newsletters, blogs, emails, messages, audios, videos, and all other traditional and digital communications, and social media platforms including, but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, blockchain related including cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), other blockchain projects, synthetic media, and all others, IS NOT LEGAL, FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT OR BUSINESS ADVICE.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
    Show More Show Less
    58 mins
  • This Protection Education Needs More Than Word Of Mouth Promotion - The Hot Seat w/ David Shands #82
    Jul 7 2025

    In this conversation with Amber G. Johnson discuss her business that educates people on how to use firearms appropriately. Though she has her business incorporated she hasn't promoted her business at her fullest potential. There has been money made mainly through word-of-mouth promotion. This can be a great way to promote, but you are then held bound to people talking up your business. There is always room for the business owner to promote the business more effectively based present goals and objectives.


    👉🏽Get Your Tickets To: https://podcastsummit.com/registration


    Apply to be on the HOT SEAT: https://hotseatsp.com/apply


    👉🏾 Join the Morning Meetup - https://www.themorningmeetup.com



    Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube:


    / @hotseatsp




    On Apple Podcasts:


    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...




    On Spotify:


    https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5z...




    ** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **


    http://www.podcastebook.com




    David Shands On IG: https://www.instagram.com/dshands/

    Amber On IG: https://www.instagram.com/theambergj/

    #entrepreneurship #business #howto



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • What Does A Business Look Like With No Marketing Strategy? - The Hot Seat w/ David Shands #81
    May 21 2025

    Welcome to another episode of "The Hot Seat"! Today, we had an insightful conversation with Lala, the owner of One:11 Studios, a content creation studio located in Forest Park, Atlanta. Lala shared her journey of entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced in her first year, and her plans for the future.


    Apply to be on the HOT SEAT: https://hotseatsp.com/apply


    👉🏾 Join the Morning Meetup - https://www.themorningmeetup.com



    Subscribe to the Hot Seat on YouTube:


    / @hotseatsp




    On Apple Podcasts:


    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...




    On Spotify:


    https://open.spotify.com/show/2mdfI5z...




    ** Grab the Podcast EBOOK👇🏾 **


    http://www.podcastebook.com




    David Shands On IG: https://www.instagram.com/dshands/


    LaLa's IG: https://www.instagram.com/one.11studios/

    #entrepreneurship #business #howto



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-hot-seat/donations
    Show More Show Less
    51 mins