As Keith Urban stares down the release of his 11th solo album, “HIGH,” he is clearly not a man bound by convention. His career, like the sizzling songs synonymous with his name, is a fluid soundscape embodying the grit and grace of human experience. For Urban, every album is a snapshot in time, a reflection of who he is, hinting at where he’s going next. His career mirrors a gallery of vivid portraits, some nearly identical, others wildly divergent, but all snapshots of a singular, ever-evolving artist.

In the Urban multiverse, each timeline offers a distinct variation reflecting the man behind the strings. There’s the sensitive balladeer, the charismatic live performer, the Aussie with an edge, the family man who loves nothing more than being present with his kin. “I’ve lived a lot of lives through my music,” Urban says of how he reconciles all the phases of his storied journey. “Every album is a blank canvas, but they’re also an accurate portrait of who I am at that moment. Between some albums, I haven’t changed much. But between others, I’ve changed radically.”

Urban shares his story with the gravitas of someone who’s truly lived myriad lives. For all his public personas, he saves his best self for his family. He and his wife Nicole Kidman are raising blossoming daughters Sunday Rose, 16, and Faith Margaret, 13, splitting their time between Nashville, Beverly Hills, Manhattan, and Sydney. They’re navigating extraordinary careers while making core family memories like reveling in the Paris Olympics — savoring moments of togetherness away from the spotlight. Despite the whirlwind of fame, it’s kicked back domestic downtime Urban cherishes most.

Country music is enjoying a peak cultural renaissance; once guarded by conservative core gatekeepers, it’s become a playground for artistic liberty and crossover experimentation. Beyoncé deep-diving her Texas roots, dabbling in the Southern Gothic, while Post Malone slides into the genre’s twangier tones in his Grand Ole Opry debut would’ve been unimaginable a decade ago. Urban attributes this to a post-pandemic hunger for real connection. “Country’s always had strong storytelling at its heart,” the industry veteran explains. “But it’s also about having a drink, a dance, and a damn good time. Audiences are craving that right now. Isolation made people want something that felt real; something with depth. Country was there, waiting.”

The Grammy Awards winner sees this as a broader cultural shift. “In an era of fake news, authentic storytelling becomes even more essential. Country is resonating with a much larger audience because it has a lot to say, and honestly, other genres may have less to say lately,” he says with a cheeky undertone. “It’s no surprise people are more than ready for it.”

He makes a compelling argument. Country now goes way beyond quaint ballads confined to rural America. It’s a global force, driven by artists like Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs, who’ve seamlessly married the heart-on-sleeve vulnerability of country with the sonic influence of hip-hop and pop.

Urban has been riding this wave of artistic freedom for years, embodying country heart with rock-and-pop edges long before it was trendy. Tracks like “Chuck Taylors” from his latest album strike up a delicate dance of soulful intimacy that meets unbridled energy, capturing both the fragility and stamina of young love. “That song took the longest of all songs on the album,” he explains. “Not in the writing but in the recording — essentially trying to balance caffeinated, insane, compulsive energy with very laid-back breeziness. Chill freneticism, yeah that.”

The paradox between primal passion and quixotic introspection is a microcosm of Urban’s broader approach to life. He blurs chaos and calm; the spaces where emotions collide and form something transcendent. It’s a sentiment that stretches across his discography, which often centers on themes of longing leading to catharsis. “I’ve always been drawn to those human feelings of hope, regret, the feeling of time slipping away,” he shares. “But I try not to hitch myself to the past.”

One of the major themes in Urban’s writing is connection. Whether it’s the nostalgia that seeps into songs or the electric camaraderie of collaborating with someone like Lainey Wilson, Urban seems forever drawn to the threads that tie artists together.

“Lainey? She’s got swagger for days,” he says about their new rowdy, rousing duet, “Go Home W U.” “We wrote it back in 2020 when bars went [dormant] and we were missing live good times. So, we just created that world ourselves,” he says. “I love Lainey’s voice; to hear her sing — you just know who she is. She can make herself at home anywhere, and that’s why people love her.”

Urban’s ease in any setting is part of what makes him such a magnetic performer. From Nashville staples to global sold-out arenas, he’s learned to read an audience, connecting on a visceral level. “It burns constantly,” he says of his passion for performing live. “It’s the center of my whole being — playing for people who just want to have a good time and sing along. When you’re on stage, revving up a sing-along chorus and the whole arena belts it back — a phenomenal feedback loop that still gives me chills.” For this rakish Scorpio, this exchange of energy is a blueprint for joy.

Auspiciously poetic timing for an artist whose songs strike at the heart of human connection — or maybe merely genius marketing — Urban’s upcoming Fontainebleau Las Vegas residency premieres on Valentine’s Day 2025. The newly built $3.7 billion palace of indulgence fuses high-gloss luxury and old-school Vegas allure, a fitting backdrop for celebrating a career of seamlessly shaking up tradition with innovation.

It’s as if Cupid himself curated the calendar. “Every show is a valentine for my audience,” he says with a laugh. “My mission is to take fans on a wild ride, leaving behind the everyday outside world for two hours to have the absolute time of their lives.” For Urban, the thrill of the moment reigns supreme — a reminder that connection with a new flame, a song, or a crowd is always the main event.

Urban’s shows at this architectural marvel will be a masterclass in musical alchemy — his high-octane stage presence igniting the venue’s leading-edge acoustics in an immersive scene. The Fontainebleau marries intimacy and grandeur in a style that feels custom-built for his brand of connection. Vegas is already iconic. Throw in thousands of fans, a stage built for spectacle, and a performer who works emotional nuance like Michelangelo works marble, and you have a love letter in concert form.

The 13-time CMA Award winner has shared the stage with a who’s who of the Hall of Fame, from Taylor Swift to Pink to the Rolling Stones. “I’m in it for the third thing,” Urban says with his Aussie timbre. “There’s what they do, there’s what I do, and then there’s that third thing that neither of us sees coming. With Pink, I always knew our voices would sound great together, but it was about finding that magical third thing.”

Magic seems to follow him into the late-night hours, inspiring some of his most evocative songwriting. “Messed Up As Me” taps into the mystique of those witching hours. The nocturnal realm holds a creative allure for the performer. “There’s something otherworldly about those hours. Intoxicating in every sense of the word,” he says with the deliberation of a man who’s spent many nights in its thrall. “You’re in this strange metaphysical space where anything can happen.”

In “Love Is Hard,” Urban explores the trenches of a relationship, where staying means everything. “My past has always been to cut and run,” Urban admits. “We live in this culture of instant gratification, but love? That’s the long game — perseverance. The more I’ve pushed through things I didn’t want to, the more I’ve grown.”

In “Break the Chain,” Urban reflects on his conscious effort to leave behind inherited habitual traps, patterns absorbed from childhood. “My parents did the best they could with what they were given. Now, it’s my responsibility to rewire myself for new experiences,” he explains. “We all come from somewhere we didn’t choose, right? But do I have the courage to stop perpetuating harmful patterns? While it’s not my fault my dad was an alcoholic, as an adult I can take accountability and learn to be in the world differently.”

Urban has written song after song about embracing the here and now; staying grounded in a world that moves at the speed of streaming and endless distractions. “It’s about finding intrigue in the moment you’re in,” he says.

Despite accolades and fame, Urban is tethered to the process, to the rawness of reinvention. As he puts it, “We’re all this mix of responsibility, gravitas, and wild edge. That’s what makes us human.” He knows relationships are complex and beautiful, and made a career out of turning emotional chaos into catharsis. One stadium-sized anthem at a time.

For more articles like these, check them out here.

The post Grit, Grace, and Guitars appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

How Patrick Bet-David Built Two Nine-Figure Businesses From Scratch.

The route from chaos and omnipresent danger growing up in Iran to becoming a self-made global brand — that tens of millions consider the preeminent voice for information and education based on the foundation of capitalism and entrepreneurship — has been traveled once. It’s a journey fueled by perseverance, faith, ambition, confidence, support, vision, and, at times, damn good fortune. Patrick Bet-David is the lone navigator of this unlikely trek, which now finds him in the middle of his latest colossal undertaking after conquering the financial services world, pushing Valuetainment into the future with a plan to make it one of the most formidable media companies in the world.

Fans of his “PBD Podcast,” subscribers to the Valuetainment YouTube channel, or attendees of his popular Vault Conference business seminar (Tom Brady was the keynote speaker in 2023, and The Rock joined him in 2024) are captivated by his open and authentic communication style. He churns out content at an almost unequaled volume, generating billions of views on YouTube and social media. He authored two popular business books: “Your Next Five Moves” in 2020, a Wall Street Journal bestseller, and the Amazon Best Seller “Choose Your Enemies Wisely” in 2023. Simon & Schuster just released his new fiction book “The Academy.”

Talk to anyone who knows Bet-David or works for Valuetainment and you’ll learn quickly how essential books and self-education are for him. They are not just a passion, but something embedded in his business DNA. He’s devoured thousands and makes those he finds most impactful required reading for current and future employees. Books are a treasure trove of information for Bet-David, literary gifts from accomplished people he constantly looks to glean knowledge from, so it’s only fitting that one he read decades ago played a role in launching the tidal wave of success that followed.

“I remember years ago, a phenomenal book was written called ‘Accidental Millionaire,’ the story of Steve Jobs by an author who couldn’t stand Steve Jobs. That book was part of the reason I got into the financial industry, which was purely accidental,” Bet-David said, explaining, “I had joined the Army because I needed to get my act together, and when I got out, I wanted to be a bodybuilder.

“I went to Santa Monica Community College, the same place Arnold Schwarzenegger went, and my dream was to be an actor in Hollywood and eventually marry a Kennedy or become a governor. I went to Mr. Olympia to study these guys and see what it takes, and I realized at 6-feet, 5-inches, I was too tall. It could never happen. On the way back, I got a call from a manager at Morgan Stanley, who I was introduced to through a girl I knew who was a financial advisor. I got my first job in the financial industry by accident. And I fell in love with the business.”

Bet-David once needed military structure because he was addicted to action. A frenetic pace and non-stop chase are allies in building a successful business or media company, but that led him down a non-productive and potentially destructive path as a teen. When his service ended, he accidentally discovered something else that changed his life; he found that the rush he felt from the world of finance was similar to the one he had when partying on one of his countless trips chasing fast times in Las Vegas. “I invested $1,000 in Nike stock when I got out of the Army, and that Nike stock went up to $3,000. It was awesome. I couldn’t believe how it happened. But I realized it was the perfect combination for me. I love people. I love numbers, and I love sales, so I let it rip.”

He was ready to take Wall Street by storm, but ironically and tragically, his first corporate gig started on September 10, 2001. The world turned upside down 24 hours later, and so did Bet-David’s career path. From that moment on, he would rely on himself and God, and he embarked on a quarter-century sprint to success that he has yet to slow down from.

He launched his financial services company, PHP, in a non-glamorous San Fernando Valley office park 25 miles and a world away from Hollywood. With the help of his wife, Jennifer, the company grew. Eventually, it had over 50,000 agents, and it was time for the Bet-Davids to find a new home for their expanding family and blossoming business. After 24 years of living there, he left his beloved California, making a tactical decision to plant PHP and expand Valuetainment to the more tax-friendly and centrally located Dallas area.

He launched his podcast out of his office in 2020 and was pleasantly surprised when 50 people found the first broadcast on the YouTube livestream enjoying the mix of commentary and perspectives on news stories, politics, pop culture, and business. Episodes now attract millions of viewers and listeners weekly. His days became a high-wire juggling act, navigating the eventual sale of PHP to Integrity Marketing Group in 2022 for a multiple nine-figure exit, guiding Valuetainment through massive growth, and expanding his reach as one of the most influential and popular content creators in digital media. It was the personification of a turbo-charged rocket ship ride to the American Dream on paper.

Bet-David made his mark on one industry while simultaneously laying a battle plan to attack another. But his meteoric rise had something in common with other game changers who never punch out on their internal time clock. Countless moments of crisis, paralyzing self-doubt, and potentially crippling obstacles that, more often than not, cause many would-be visionaries to tap out.

“I didn’t know what it was to be a CEO. I was a good salesperson. I was an average sales leader, but I had no idea how to run a fricking company,” Bet-David told Jetset. He recounted one harrowing moment in the early days of PHP when things nearly ended before they began. “Jen was pregnant with our first baby. At the same time, I was getting sued and had to pay out a settlement from a lawsuit I was part of with a previous company. The lawsuit would cost me roughly 90% of what I had in the bank account. I was down to my last $13,000, and I remember lying in bed, thinking, ‘Did I do the right thing starting this company?’

“There was another time when we were living in Northridge, and I was making maybe $80,000 because I was not taking any money off the table, and I was looking at Jen lying in bed and asking myself again, ‘Did I mess up?’” he shared. “So many people warned me not to start a company because guys like me don’t make good CEOs. Maybe they were right. Nine years ago was the first time I was comfortable sharing this, and I made a video where I talked about how to deal with anxiety. I spoke about the level of anxiety and panic attacks I had in 2012 and 2013. I had to go to the hospital after multiple panic attacks. I thought I was having a heart attack, but I don’t drink or smoke, so a heart attack didn’t make sense. It was all caused by exhaustion.”

Bet-David leaves nothing to chance. He’s a disciple of data, never wanting to be caught off guard, uninformed, or unprepared. Chaos and crisis are viewed as opportunities and a chance to grow. “In 2014, I read a book that explained the difference between anxiety and depression,” he said. “The psychologist author broke it down. She said, ‘If you’re depressed, you’re spending too much time in the past. If you’re having panic attacks and anxiety, you’re spending too much time in the future.’ That hit me. I knew I was constantly thinking about the future.”

Bet-David said he added an affirmation to his life that has served him well but probably caused anxiety for his competitors and doubters. “It was called ‘Stop Trying to Be God.’ That job is already taken. Whenever I felt anxious, I would think about what I could do in the moment, and the results followed.”

Taking his foot off the gas about worrying about “what’s next” meant freeing himself to focus more on “what’s now.” That led to the stratospheric growth of his businesses. In 2021, he moved his company and family to South Florida and has already outgrown the space.

On the day of the Jetset photo shoot inside his private cigar lounge, not far from the converted bank vault transformed into his podcast studio, work is underway on a sprawling campus near the Fort Lauderdale airport that will soon be the corporate home to his budding empire. It includes a hangar, which will house his gleaming Gulfstream 550 — as much a luxurious, well-earned perk as a necessity for a man on a mission. “For me, it’s the 150-hour rule,” he explained. “When you start traveling 150-plus hours per year, you need a jet. That’s when the numbers start working in your favor. And we’re now at a place where I’m intentionally here in Florida because I can go to Dallas, I can go to the West Coast, I can go to the Bahamas, or Mexico, or Europe. I can go to New York.”

Bet-David has good reasons to point his G-5 to New York. He spent a chunk of the summer with his family in the Hamptons, loves being there, and is looking to purchase a house. And he can check up on one of his other winning investments: the New York Yankees. The backstory is incredible. He’s looked to become a minority owner in a professional sports team and to become a majority owner one day. He’s had opportunities, but one of the caveats was a requirement to sign an NDA. “I said I’m not signing any NDAs unless the ownership of a team has to do with the Lakers, the Dodgers., or the Yankees.”

Months later, he received a call; his signature was needed for an NDA. An elderly friend of George Steinbrenner was looking to unload his minority share, and Bet-David pounced. Months went by. It was past a year with no movement, and Bet-David was sure it wasn’t happening because of his vocal political views. Then, he was summoned to Yankee Stadium.

A renowned and leading vintage card collector, the closest Bet-David had come to baseball immortality was owning several rare Mickey Mantle and Babe Ruth cards. In a room with top Yankee brass, Bet-David asked them one question: “I am very loud politically, and I’m gonna get louder, and I need to know if you are going to tell me I can’t say certain things because I’m telling you right now, I won’t listen. Will that be a problem?” The top decision-makers for the Yanks assured Bet-David they would never try to dictate how he runs his business or control what he says. However, there was one thing they wanted their potential new partner to understand about their corporate culture. They said, “We have one team rule here: Hal’s (Steinbrenner) the boss.”

For someone who once questioned his ability to be a boss, Bet-David has positioned himself as a prominent influencer heading into and past the Presidential election, and he has zero concern if he loses advertisers. Why would he? He recently halted outside ad dollars in favor of only promoting products under his umbrella of companies.

Bet-David’s interviews tend to turn into news stories. He was the person who questioned Florida Governor Ron DeSantis about his height shortly before a firestorm erupted and he faded out of the Presidential race. He’s interviewed Mafia leaders, flown to Romania to speak with Andrew Tate, and listened to Dan Bilzerian essentially cancel himself on an episode of his podcast. Shortly after a 90-minute sit-down with Dwayne Johnson at his Vault Conference, Bet-David said his radar is locked in on getting a sit-down with Vladimir Putin, and it’s most likely not a matter of if but when.

Watching his interview with Kobe Bryant, you’ll note his innate ability to create an environment where guests intuitively let their guard down. He carved a niche as a top interviewer because of his natural curiosity and preparation. Still, he also understands that making someone squirm and not becoming too comfortable is the recipe for compelling content. The ultimate get for Bet-David has and always will be Michael Jordan. If he wanted to speak to another sports GOAT, all he would have to do is open the door of his house and yell to his neighbor: soccer legend Lionel Messi.

“The American Dream” is a phrase that has been taken for granted by many, scorned by the ungrateful, and mocked by the ignorant. If you are asked for its definition and can’t find the words to describe it, tell the person to Google the guy on the cover of this issue of Jetset, and they can see what it looks like.

The post Made In America appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Michael Chandler Ascends from Humble Roots to MMA Eminence.

Hailing from High Ridge, Missouri, a quaint town nestled near the Illinois border, Chandler describes his hometown as “more than a one-horse town, yet not quite a thriving metropolis. I’m a small guy, from a small town, who was taught to do small things,” Chandler reminisces, recounting the manner in which his modest upbringing endeavored to dissuade grand aspirations and lofty dreams. Fortuitously for the MMA world and its ardent devotees, Chandler and his parents harbored grander ambitions. Defying small town constraints would define the way forward for Chandler.

Chandler’s ascension to the pinnacle of MMA can be traced back to his collegiate wrestling days. Despite being a formidable high school wrestler, Chandler did not receive scholarship offers from any Division 1 college wrestling programs. While he garnered offers from Division 2 and NAIA institutions, Chandler opted to forgo those opportunities, instead attempting to secure a walk-on position at the University of Missouri. Chandler astutely recognized that he would be better served by the caliber of coaching and competition at Division 1 schools. With the unwavering support of his father, Mike, and mother, Betty, Chandler not only secured a place on the team but went on to become a three-time NCAA All-American. Chandler fondly recounts, “My parents were always willing to support us, no matter what sacrifices they had to make, whether it was taking on additional work or forsaking their own desires to ensure we had the opportunity to pursue ours.” As Chandler characterizes his childhood, “We didn’t have an abundance of material possessions, but we were never lacking.” He also credits his coach at the University of Missouri for instilling in him the desire to be not merely the best wrestler he could be but also the best student, friend, leader and person he could become.

This dedication to being more than just a student athlete, but a well-rounded individual, has served Chandler well throughout his life. Chandler etched his mark in the MMA landscape with Bellator MMA, where he swiftly emerged as one of its brightest luminaries. In 2011, Chandler’s breakthrough moment arrived when he captured the Bellator Lightweight Championship in a riveting clash, culminating in the submission of Eddie Alvarez. This victory not only showcased his formidable skill set but also set the stage for a series of epic battles that would cement his legacy as a Bellator legend.

Chandler went on to successfully defend the Lightweight title on two subsequent occasions. Throughout his career, Chandler has been a part of some of the most unforgettable moments in MMA history. The trilogy with Eddie Alvarez, including their epic encounter at Bellator 106, demonstrated Chandler’s ability to thrive under immense pressure. His reign as Bellator Lightweight Champion was marked by dominant performances and an unyielding will to succeed.

In 2020, Michael Chandler took his talents to the biggest stage in MMA—the UFC. His debut against Dan Hooker at UFC 257 was nothing short of total domination. In a mere two minutes and thirty seconds, Chandler unleashed his explosive striking, delivering a first-round knockout that left fans and fellow fighters in awe. The statement victory catapulted him into the upper echelons of the lightweight division. Chandler’s fighting style is a masterful blend of technical proficiency and raw power that overwhelms opponents with a multifaceted attack. Chandler’s powerful striking, formidable takedowns and relentless pace dismantle opponents both standing and on the mat. His ability to adapt his offense and defense to different opponents and fight scenarios has made him a formidable force in the lightweight division.

Michael Chandler’s impact transcends the boundaries of the octagon. A devoted family man and an outspoken Christian who uses his faith as a lodestar to uplift and inspire others, Chandler not only possesses the mind of a relentless fighter but is also driven by an unstoppable entrepreneurial spirit. Chandler is involved in no less than four health and fitness brands, a prolific business acumen driven by what he refers to as being “blissfully dissatisfied.” He explains that one must be content with their accomplishments while simultaneously harboring the notion that they can achieve more. He is involved in various capacities with Kram Nutrition (which produces what Chandler refers to as a “healthy Uncrustable”), WalkOn Fitness, Training Camp Cut and Speede Fitness.

Michael Chandler not only seeks to promote physical well-being but also encourages occasional hiatuses from physical progression to reflect on one’s achievements. What better way to do so than with a high-quality tequila? According to Chandler, his partnership with Hiatus Tequila was born out of his affinity for tequila and his deep respect for the company’s owner. Chandler speaks in reverent tones regarding this new venture, stating, “Kristopher DeSoto (Owner of Hiatus Tequila) and I are seeking to redefine what a celebrity partnership should look like in the spirit industry. I have invested in Hiatus because of their commitment to crafting tequila the traditional way—with a deep respect for culture, hard work and dedication to authenticity and quality at a superior price point.” The story of Hiatus Tequila would seem to mirror Chandler’s internal characteristics.

Chandler also finds time for his family and friends. Chandler, his wife Brie, and their two sons, Hap and Ace, enjoy traveling to far-flung destinations like Iceland, Greece and the somewhat less exotic Scottsdale, Arizona. Chandler spends time in the desert oasis of Scottsdale playing golf and hosting extended visits for groups of friends and family while on hiatus from his training regimen. The elusive pursuit of perfection in golf resonates with Chandler, as the need to work smarter and be dedicated to improvement feels natural to him. Although, according to Chandler, even the pressure cooker of stepping into the octagon for his first professional fight pales in comparison to the pressure involved in standing on the first tee at his local club with a crowd gathered.

In the unforgiving realm of MMA, Michael Chandler stands tall as a symbol of resilience, skill and unwavering determination. From collegiate wrestling mats to the unforgiving spotlight of the UFC, Chandler’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. The next chapter in his storied career promises to be just as thrilling as the last, ensuring that the name Michael Chandler will continue to echo through the annals of MMA history. Whether he’s chasing titles, new business opportunities or new experiences for his family, one thing is certain—Michael Chandler’s journey in the octagon and in the boardroom is far from over.

For more articles, click here.

The post An Indomitable Spirit appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

CONOR MCGREGOR STARS IN ROAD HOUSE PHOTO: LAURA RADFORD © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC

Conor McGregor’s Evolution Beyond the UFC

Notoriety follows Conor McGregor in every aspect of his life — that’s par for the course for this multi-weight UFC champion, entrepreneur, global businessperson, and athletic icon. From electrifying gladiatorial arenas to the silver screen’s gilded halls, McGregor’s journey reads like a riveting epic, blending equal parts grit, gravitas, and unbridled audacity. As fans eagerly awaited his Hollywood debut in the Road House remake, where he takes on the role of ruthless villain opposite Jake Gyllenhaal’s complex hero, one thing is abundantly clear: McGregor’s ascent to the big screen is as swift and relentless as his lethal left hook.

From his humble beginnings in the working-class streets of Dublin to his coronation as the undisputed king of the octagon, McGregor’s journey is nothing short of legendary. With a record-breaking string of victories and a magnetic persona that captivates audiences worldwide, McGregor’s imprint on the sport of mixed martial arts is indelible, his legacy immortalized in the annals of combat sports history.

Amidst entrepreneurial pursuits, McGregor remains grounded with his devoted Dee by his side, and four children lighting up their sprawling Dublin estate. Family isn’t merely a refuge from fame; it’s the beating heart of McGregor’s existence, the driving force behind his every pursuit.

In our exclusive cover story, we go behind the scenes to unravel the enigma that is Conor McGregor. The man is a cultural phenomenon of his own making, a symbol of resilience and reinvention.

SP: On behalf of Jetset Magazine, we’re thrilled to speak with you. Thanks for your time. What’s been the most compelling or challenging aspect of your transition from the octagon to the silver screen?

CM: You’ve just got the kind of reverse engineer yourself, right? In the context of acting and filmmaking, I’m a white belt. So, I had to take that mentality and think, okay, I’ve achieved a lot in the fight game, but how can I condition myself in a new arena? It’s humbling in the best way; I got to ask a lot of questions and took direction very well.

SP: Your journey from MMA fighter to cast of Road House is remarkable given your Dublin street-cred roots. I’m sure you’ve turned down dozens of past movie offers in favor of this robust opportunity to remake an iconic film. What did director Doug Liman say to you to get you fired up?

CM: Doug and producer Joel Silver presented the total package. First off, I’m a big fan of Patrick Swayze and the original Road House. Hearing Jake Gyllenhaal was involved, alongside Billy Magnussen, that really pricked my ears up — the opportunity to join an amazing cast. Shooting in the Dominican Republic, with the backing of Amazon Prime and MGM Studios —that was a big draw too. Then there was sheer lucky timing. [I was] recovering from an injury from my last contest, so I had time off to allow for the shoot.

SP: When I saw how intricate, visceral, and “full send” the Road House fight sequences played out, I was gobsmacked, thinking… this is how McGregor gets over an injury? Ironically, your UFC trainer has to “protect you from fake fighting” in order for you to crush it on your return to the octagon. Were there any specific stunts that your trainer or attorney forbade you from engaging in on the set of Road House?

CM: No, nothing was officially off-limits. I do all my own stunts.

SP: Seriously? Even enduring simulated body blows and leg sweeps? Would you say you did 50 or 60% of the stunts that made it to the final cut?

CM: I’d say 98%. I was pretty much healed from the injury, but not to the point of returning to competition. The only thing they wouldn’t let me do was the scene where I fell backward down a flight of stairs.

SP: I’m glad they drew the line at the catastrophic stair crush.

CM: On the heavy fight choreography days, they had stunt doubles standing by at the ready. I just really didn’t think the guys looked like me, so I did it myself.

SP: I suppose that’s your “quality control” on the image and likeness front.

CM: Exactly. I was invested in the outcome at every stage.

SP: What has been the biggest game changer when it comes to overcoming injury? Have you discovered a new protocol or lifestyle shift that’s helped you reach the endgame?

CM: I love ice water immersion and a daily short stint of direct sun exposure. We must expose our bodies to stressors daily — saunas, fasting — this is how we become stronger.

SP: Your sartorial style sends a potent message in the ramp-up to a fight night when competitors show up to take the microphone in baggy T-shirts and jeans. I admire how you respect the forum by bringing your A game in terms of tailored suiting. Who are some of your go-to designers for pre-match press conferences?

CM: All my tailoring is done by David August Heil. He’s suited up the likes of Sylvester Stallone, Chris Hemsworth, Robert Downey Jr. We co-founded a clothing company called August McGregor; we’re enjoying growing the business. In the beginning, I didn’t have two cents for a suit. In my UFC debut as a prelim fighter, I packed my grandfather’s blazer because I knew I was going to perform and get a nice knockout, so I got to wear it for the first time as a winner in Sweden. Back in the day, Lorenzo Fertitta, former UFC CEO took me to see Heil and bought me a boatload of suits to do press.

SP: Speaking of your entrepreneurial instincts, who is your MVP when it comes to Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey?

CM: I’ve got my aces in co-founders Audie Attar and Ken Austin. It’s been a massive success and continues to expand. It’s a lovely liquid, and people are really enjoying it. I also bought a brewery and launched Forged Irish Stout; I control production and we’re in four countries: Ireland, UK, USA, and Sweden, and growing. I’ve got about a thousand parties set for St. Patrick’s Day festivities, between the stout and the whiskey brand.

SP: Let’s get meta. Who are you tapping to play Conor McGregor in the eventual Hollywood biopic? My pick is Tom Hardy, or Tom Holland if the screenplay is an origin story set in your mid-20s. Let’s manifest Ryan Gosling if you think he has the chops!

CM: Tom Holland is amazing in Spiderman. And Tom Hardy is now a Brazilian jiu-jitsu purple belt and a formidable force on the mat. He’s a frequent competitor, which is great to see for the sport. He’s the real deal for sure. Ryan Gosling is a great actor. So many of these guys are just believable. I mean Jake is 75 movies deep, and you really got to admire that skill level when faced with doing it yourself. All the props in the world to these guys. I was blown away when Jared Leto came out publicly to say he’d want to play Conor McGregor.

SP: Okay, that’s wildly promising, considering his memorable Oscar win.

CM: I know. He’s an absolutely incredible actor who can alter himself in mind-boggling ways for a role. We got to chatting in Cannes at a Spotify party and he told me he’d been studying my mannerisms; we had a good laugh about it all. But he was being completely serious about his interest in the role.

SP: If you had the opportunity to executive produce your own biopic, what decade or phase of your journey do you think would translate most profoundly or engagingly on screen?

CM: Probably my rise to the double world title. Now that was really raw. I was hungry; the hungry lion. I’m kind of like the fat cat now, you know? Powerful. Satisfied. But yeah, that’s not to say that I can’t starve to incite that hunger again… but that would be the most dramatic era. My rise from nothing to something to everything; there are ebbs and flows in the story and, God willing, I pray every day I can keep growing in grace. I’ve got four children and I’m raising them well. They’re here with me today, waiting in the next room. Thanks for diving in so deep with the film. This felt great!

The post Conor McGregor: From Octagon to Onscreen appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Daymond John: From humble beginnings to soaring success

In the pantheon of entrepreneurial legends, one name soars high above the rest: Daymond John, a titan whose journey from Shark Tank to the skies is a masterclass in relentless ambition. When you think success, think Daymond John—household name, pioneering powerhouse and the embodiment of the American dream. As a “Shark,” investor, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and let’s not forget New York Times best-selling author, Daymond John doesn’t just walk the walk; he takes flight, leaving a jet stream of inspiration in his wake. His life, an exhilarating tapestry of roles—visionary, husband, father—exemplifies a balance most dare only to dream of.

With each private jet ascent, Daymond charts a course in calculated business acumen, offering an arsenal of CEO wisdom that transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. His words, charged with the energy of a relentless spirit, echo through boardrooms and family rooms alike: “I’m hungrier now than ever before to the point where my poor staff is like ‘what the hell is wrong with this guy?’” This hunger fuels not just a personal legacy, but a commitment to propel others to dizzying heights of success. In the world of Jetset Magazine, where luxury meets legacy, Daymond John isn’t just a feature; he’s a force, a mentor guiding others through the stratosphere of possibility, driven by family, focused on health, and forever reaching for the stars.

All photos courtesy of Dave Laus

From truly humble beginnings in Queens, New York, John grew up in a single-parent household, where his mother worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. With limited resources, he had to be resourceful and innovative from an early age. His entrepreneurial spirit ignited when he was just 10 years old, selling handmade pencil cases on the streets of Queens. This early experience sparked his passion for business. He later founded FUBU (For Us, By Us), a clothing brand that began in his mother’s basement. It was all about streetwear and reflected the urban culture he was a part of. John’s big break came when he and his friends mortgaged their homes to secure funding for FUBU. The brand gained recognition when it was featured in a music videos and worn by top hip-hop artists. It quickly became a fashion sensation and a symbol of urban style.

His journey to becoming a “Shark” on Shark Tank is equally inspiring. John’s reputation as a fashion mogul and entrepreneur caught the attention of the show’s producers. He joined the cast in its first season and brought his business acumen to the table. His “Shark” persona is a testament to his incredible success and his ability to spot lucrative opportunities. John’s rise from a modest upbringing to becoming a renowned entrepreneur and investor is a true symbol of his determination, creativity and perseverance. He continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs around the world through his work on Shark Tank, the numerous entrepreneurial ventures detailed later in this story, and his motivational speaking engagements. John’s story is a shining example of the American dream realized, and he’s undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the world of business.

On the topic of private jet travel, John shared some excellent points about the benefits. “It’s not just about the luxury and convenience, although those aspects are certainly enticing. Private jet travel offers a level of productivity that’s hard to match with commercial flights.” When you have a busy schedule like John, every minute counts. Commercial flights often come with long check-in lines, security checks and the general hassle of navigating crowded airports. With a private jet, you can skip all of that and board your plane directly, saving valuable time. As John explains, “a six-hour flight from New York to Vegas can be incredibly productive when you have the privacy and comfort of a private jet.”

As you gain experience and maturity, the real value of private jet travel lies in its efficiency, safety, and the ability to focus on what truly matters. As John states, “When you start to realize what’s important to you, the need for private travel is a different need. With the ever-changing, fast-paced business world and managing multiple businesses, staying ahead of the competition is key.”

In the end, private jet travel is about more than just luxury; it’s about optimizing your time and resources to achieve your goals efficiently. John emphasizes, “That’s why I’m actually here. Because all of us true leaders constantly keep educating ourselves and what is most important is being around other people.” John is convinced that remote work and virtual meetings are ineffective, as they tap into merely 20 percent of the staff’s potential. So, whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur like John or someone aspiring to reach new heights, private jet travel, with the opportunities it affords for face-to-face meetings, can be a valuable asset in your journey towards success.

Daymond John poses in front of flyExclusive’s 2002 CESSNA 560XL

In an interesting conversation, John mentions that a major global bank once approached him with an offer of a $2 billion credit line. The bank wanted him to oversee the absorption of various minority-owned companies. Resisting a 15–20-year commitment despite the attractive offer, John also declined to take over a hotel company because it would have required a significant long-term commitment. He considered the impact on his personal life, especially with his young daughter and previous personal experiences. Reflecting on the purpose of business, John emphasizes the importance of understanding why you’re in business. “Many people in business don’t realize their true motivations until they reach a certain point. Business should have a purpose, ideally creating positive change.”

Entrepreneurship is a journey that demands not only great ideas but also a unique set of skills and tools. Gleaning insights from seasoned entrepreneurs like John we uncover indispensable traits that every entrepreneur should cultivate to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

John highlights the importance of entrepreneurs having resilience, in terms of developing a strong rejection muscle. He argues that rejection, often seen as a setback, is actually a steppingstone towards innovation. Each “no” should be viewed as an opportunity to refine your approach and improve your offering. John declares, “The better entrepreneur you are, and the more innovative you are, the more you are going to get rejected.”

Harnessing common sense and thoughtful decision-making is also significant in entrepreneurship. While theoretical knowledge and business plans are important, John emphasizes the need to apply practical wisdom to each decision. “Everything that may look good on paper doesn’t always translate into success in the real world.”

When it’s all said and done, it’s important for entrepreneurs to cultivate their sense of empathy and vulnerability. These traits are essential in understanding the root of a problem or the essence of a customer’s need, making it easier to create solutions that resonate with people. John suggests that without these traits, entrepreneurs risk alienating themselves from the very people they aim to serve.

Beyond John’s FUBU fame, he focuses on building a lasting legacy, championing financial wellness and entrepreneurial success. He leads the Rise Nation Mastermind, connecting high-earning entrepreneurs for peer guidance and tackling advanced business challenges like employee retention and leveraging AI. Additionally, he selectively mentors top CEOs, emphasizing not just business growth but also philanthropic impact.

Daymond John aboard a CESSNA 560XL from flyExclusive

Passionate about financial literacy, John emphasizes the need for accessible financial education in America. He highlights the underutilization of available resources and the importance of teaching children about money management to address societal issues like debt and poor health choices. His book, “Little Damon Learns to Earn,” targets young audiences to instill early financial habits, tackling the ripple effects of predatory marketing and financial instability.

John’s philosophy balances building ego with nurturing the soul. He leverages his influence to educate both the young and entrepreneurs, aiming for a financially-aware future generation. This holistic approach unites his business endeavors and educational efforts, striving for broader societal improvement and financial security for all.

John also recently ventured into the health and wellness sphere, marking a new chapter that reflects his commitment to a well-rounded, balanced life. Acknowledging a personal revelation, John shares, “Post-COVID, I found myself numbing the edge a bit too often. That’s when I stopped drinking and shifted to natural methods for stress and weight management.” His pivot towards promoting overall well-being is not just a testament to his character, but a poignant reminder that true success encompasses far more than financial gain.

At 54, John’s vitality is a testament to his lifestyle changes. This rejuvenation is partly fueled by his personal life, including the youthful energy brought by his seven-year-old daughter and the support of his wife, whose presence serves as a continuous inspiration. Now, more than ever, he’s driven to stay healthy and present in his daughter’s life. With the dream of one day walking her down the aisle, Daymond says, “that’s part of what legacy is about—it’s not just about wealth.”

John’s journey is a true inspiration, reminding us all that success is attainable through hard work, calculated risks, helping others and a dedication to personal well-being. We encourage our readers to follow in his footsteps, embracing entrepreneurship with passion and resilience while also prioritizing their own health and wellness. John’s story is a beacon of motivation, proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible in the world of business and beyond.

Special thanks to Flyexclusive and McLaren Scottsdale.

The post The Awe-Inspiring Trajectory of Daymond John’s Life and Career appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

All Photography Courtesy of Dave Laus

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seat belts because we’re about to take off on a high-altitude journey through the life of American actor Jim Caviezel. No turbulence here, just a first-class voyage through the career of a man who defies gravity, embodying roles that soar to astonishing emotional heights. From the celestial chorus of angelic voices in “The Passion of the Christ” to the echoes of human dignity in “Sound of Freedom,” Caviezel is the pilot navigating us through cinematic skies that might otherwise go unexplored.

From the basketball court to the limelight, Jim Caviezel’s pivot to acting was no accident. Well, except for the foot injury that thwarted his hoop dreams. Yet, in that very twist of fate, a calling was heard—loud and clear. Inspired by the legendary Jimmy Stewart, Jim discovered a path where he could still perform—just in front of a camera rather than on a court. “I believe God stepped in and instilled the calling to act,” Caviezel said. “I auditioned for Juilliard and got in, but never attended because I booked a job before classes started.”

Now let’s throttle to full as we veer towards an emotional rollercoaster ride courtesy of Alejandro Monteverde’s movie “Sound of Freedom.” Starring Jim Caviezel as real-life American hero Tim Ballard, the film takes on the disturbing subject of global sex trafficking. Released, appropriately enough, on America’s birthday in July 2023, this movie packs a punch, just like the fireworks you’d expect on the Fourth.

Now, let’s rewind. Picture this: the film was done and dusted in 2018 but got lost in the Hollywood shuffle when Disney swallowed up 20th Century Fox like a mouse nibbling cheese. Shelved, but not forgotten, the film was resurrected like a phoenix. The filmmakers reacquired the rights and took the bold move to go with Angel Studios for distribution. Pros? Creative freedom and a direct line to a thirsty audience. Cons? Limited theater presence and initial eyeballs.

As for the film itself, it delivers a gut-wrenching yet inspiring take on Ballard’s quest to rescue children from trafficking. It’s a heartbreaking, pulse-pounding narrative that leaves you questioning, “How is this still a thing in 2023?” Despite its distribution hiccup, the film found its audience, raking in both critical acclaim and some sweet box office numbers.

In a world that too often turns a blind eye to uncomfortable truths, “Sound of Freedom” serves as a blaring wake-up call. It tackles the underbelly of society and makes you want to stand up and do something—anything—to stop this current global menace. Go on, grab your popcorn, but don’t expect to sit back and relax; this is a film that demands your attention and your action.

But let’s not overlook that monumental role that steered Jim’s career towards the stratosphere—playing Jesus in “The Passion of the Christ.” Just like a jet breaking the sound barrier, this role shattered expectations, elevating Jim to an iconic status. The role was transformative, not just for the viewers but for Jim himself, reminding us all that acting can be a celestial calling. The film ignited conversations, broke box-office records, and even stoked the embers of controversy. But why? Because it was more than a movie; it was a mirror reflecting societal ethos and moral questions. And through it all, Caviezel’s performance was not merely acting; it was an act of dedication to a story larger than life.

Jetset asked Caviezel how portraying such an iconic figure as Jesus impacted his personal and professional life. “The Passion” made me pretty recognizable around the world,” Caviezel explained. “And with that notoriety, you end up becoming more protective of your family, your time, and that also colors your future endeavors because you’ve just starred in the most important biography ever . . . how do you top that? I do think some people in the film community had a hard time deciding how to use me after “The Passion.” But fortunately for me, afterwards I was able to make projects like “Déjà Vu” with Tony Scott and Denzel Washington and “Person of Interest” which allowed audiences to remember that prior to “The Passion,” they enjoyed me in “The Count of Monte Cristo” and “The Thin Red Line,” roles that were embraced early in my career.

Jetset asked Caviezel if he could share any memorable experiences or challenges he faced while preparing for a specific role. He described one that turned out to be life changing. “While shooting “The Passion,” not only was I struck by lightning, but I also dislocated my shoulder. So here I am, being hoisted up to hang on the cross. I’ve got to remove the sling and they’re stretching my arms, so I say, ‘Ok God, this is where I need a hug to stay up here because this hurts like crazy!’ He definitely did lift me up because there was no way my shoulder would have held up. I was a true believer before but was a confirmed one after that grueling day.”

Caviezel says that both “The Passion” and “Sound of Freedom” challenged him as an actor. “Both films gave me the chance to play individuals who stood for only good and who were willing to make extreme sacrifices to try to help others, literally rescuing them. It creates a humbling effect to carry the magnitude of these roles and I hope that I might have the courage in my life to make the right decisions, too, when tested.”

As we cruise through Caviezel’s storied career, let’s not forget the co-pilot in his life—his loving wife Kerri Browitt Caviezel. Beneath the roles and the fame is a family man. The duo is raising three adopted kiddos, all who’ve faced the heavy diagnosis of cancer. But let’s be clear, the Caviezels are no understudies in the theater of parenthood; they’re headlining the act with relentless love and commitment.

As for what’s next on Caviezel’s radar? “I’m looking forward to making more films that tell stories that bring characters to some sense of redemption,” he says. “At this phase in my career, I want to make sure the writing is strong and the creative team is top-notch so that I continue to grow, too.” A new adventure looms on the horizon, and we can’t wait to be passengers on that thrilling ride.

In a world that often demands compromise, Jim Caviezel reminds us that the route to success need not be charted by sacrificing one’s core values. He’s flying on his own terms, staying true to his course, and reminding us all that, yes, the sky’s the limit—but only if you dare to take off.

Wardrobe: All Saints | Neiman Marcus Scottsdale 

The post Man on a Mission: Jim Caviezel Focuses on Film, Family and Freedom appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

Kevin Hart, one of the most hardworking men in show business.

Kevin Hart isn’t the type of guy content to sit around waiting for movie studios to call. He’s been cultivating a powerhouse multimedia empire in the ultimate “side hustle”, and it’s firmly putting him in the driver’s seat. The Los Angeles-based actor owns a media companies, HartBeat, and Laugh Out Loud, with an 85% stake in the latter valued at an impressive $650 million. Hart frequently ranks among the highest-paid comedians, collaborates with A-List talent on high-profile movie projects, and maintains a dizzying amount of collaborations and development. Endorsement deals are aplenty to say the least—Chase J.P Morgan, Fabletics Men, Old Spice. And as if that weren’t enough, he’s created a tequila brand, Gran Coramino to call his own.

All this effort has resulted in Hart kicking “household name” status up to a new level—he’s everywhere, a moving meme, one of the most known faces in American pop culture. Well-known for a multitude of reasons, he’s most recognized for his signature comedic abilities. He’s certainly come a long way from gawking at Edddie Murphy’s performance in Raw (a seminal experience of his childhood) to living it up as one of the top comedians of his generation, with a slew of box office hits to his credit. Arguably among the most hardworking people in show business, he’s acted in over a dozen films since 2013. Not to mention the warp speed stand-up tours that kept him on the road for weeks at a time.

Kevin Darnell Hart was born on July 6, 1979 to Nancy Hart, a single mother, and raised in one of Philadelphia’s most troubled neighborhoods. Hart moved to New York City right after graduating from high school to seek a career in comedy. When he chose to pursue stand-up comedy, his mother agreed to fund his rent for a year while he worked to get noticed. He’d commute from Philadelphia to New York’s comedy clubs, hitching rides or taking the bus from his house in the afternoon and returning in the wee hours of the morning. He could feel the crowd leaning in and responding as he opened up about his rollercoaster of a personal life. Hart soon graced the stages of comedy clubs around the country.

Hart’s first television special was called Kevin Hart: Seriously Funny, though he didn’t become a comedic celebrity until 2011, when he embarked on the Laugh at My Pain tour, which took him to over 90 locations. The tour would go down in history as one of the most successful comedy tours of the year, helping to shape Hart into the live performer that he is today. Over the years, he has presented a number of award programs, including the MTV Music Awards. Hart’s amusing celebrity friendships, such as those with Dwayne Johnson and Tiffany Haddish, also keep him in the headlines.

In the early 2000s, Hart snagged plum supporting parts in films such as Along Came Polly, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Fool’s Gold among others–making the most of every second of screen time. His more current starring vehicles, which include the Ride Along series and Central Intelligence, have grossed approximately $4.2 billion in the globally. From sheer grit and seasoned craft, he’s emerged as a bankable movie star, one of the few stars who still draws people to the theaters. That’s why he can command north of $10 million for a film and, as he did for his concert specials like What Now?, sell out a roughly 70,000-seat stadium.

While Hart’s hook with audiences has made him wealthy, he’s no longer satisfied simply cashing studio checks. He aspires to be a magnate, a mogul on the level of Jay Z or Oprah. Hart’s been strategically investing in companies through his HartBeat Ventures; he doesn’t just want to be known as a funny frontman—he’s all about creating and fueling industries. His firm has invested in beverage company BrightFox, avatar platform Ready Player Me, Rodo, a car sales and leasing platform, and food delivery platform Snackpass, among others, according to TechCrunch.

On the lifestyle business front, Gran Coramino Tequila, founded by Hart and tequila maker Juan Domingo Beckmann, debuted last year to warm reviews from leading F&B managers. Gran Coramino is the culmination of two personal journeys. Hart spent years looking for the perfect partner to create a top shelf tequila. Beckmann is an 11th-generation tequila maker with a family that not only created the tequila category, but also the exceptionally smooth Añejo and Reposado Cristalino tequila styles. According to their site, the two founders’ craft, care and passion are part of every bottle – from the beautiful design to the delicious liquid. Beckmann leads the most awarded tequila company in the world; his family has produced tequila from the same agave fields for generations. He’s a natural partner for Hart, a tequila connoisseur known for his love for his family and community.

Kevin Hart in the kitchen

Hart is extremely funny off the cuff, and it seems like no matter who producers cast him alongside, whether it’s live on stage or for the camera, he can spark up chemistry with most any co-star. The entertainer has brought his own irreverent brand of humor to the comedy world, and it’s yielded immense success that he enjoys sharing with his inner circle. Case in point, so the story goes, Hart decided to buy each of his closest friends their dream car. That group of friends, known as The Plastic Cup Boyz, decided to start a car club since they all had cool classic cars and needed an excuse to spend more time together. Therein lies the origin story of Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew, first aired in July 2021 on Amazon and Apple TV. In the show, Hart offers an upbeat, lighthearted look into the world of car collecting with his crew. The show has grown in popularity and season two is already in the works. Roku is partnering with MotorTrend and Hartbeat to produce it as a Roku Original series.

Hart’s lucrative deal with Netflix means his fans can expect a steady stream of content. Set to debut in January 2024, adrenaline junkies will get their fix in his newest film, Lift. Buckle up for a raging rollercoaster of action. Hart’s character, a master thief, is coaxed and corralled into a seemingly impossible heist by none other than the FBI and his ex-girlfriend. The caper takes place in the sky aboard a 777-passenger flight from London to Zurich. British beauty Gugu Mbatha-Raw landed the role of leading lady, playing opposite Hart. Vincent D’Onofrio and Billy Magnussen round out the cast. Netflix unveiled the first-look trailer, and Lift’s fast-paced escapades on a ticking clock look super slick under the directorial finesse of F. Gary Gray. The film is produced by Simon Kinberg, known for X-Men: Dark Phoenix, in conjunction with HartBeat Productions. Though Hart’s schedule is packed, Jumanji 4 is taking shape in development. Jumanji: The Next Level was a hit at the box office for Sony Pictures and anticipation for a sequel is high. All signs point to Sony keeping this franchise pumping with Hart, Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan all expected to return. Indeed, the Kevin Hart cinematic universe truly knows no bounds.

The post From Punchlines to Profits: Kevin Hart’s Unstoppable Success appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

By all accounts, the latest venture from Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul is going quite well, perhaps even more so than their decidedly-less-legal fictional enterprise on Breaking Bad. Dos Hombres, the mezcal company the two award-winning actors launched in 2019, has quickly ascended the spirit’s global ranks as it undergoes a swift expansion, its two beloved principals firmly at the helm. Jetset recently had the pleasure of sitting down with the industrious duo aboard a well-appointed Bombardier Challenger 350 to imbibe some of their smoky spirit and discuss the brand’s growing success.

“I think it’s important for people to know that we are very hands-on,” Paul says, filling his rocks glass with Dos Hombres. Paul is proud to say that the pair has hired every single one of their employees personally and are involved in nearly every decision for the global brand. The two frequently embark on whirlwind promotional tours — long days of four, five, six stops in one city — surprising fans at bars, mixing drinks, signing bottles, and getting to know the people whom Paul says “put liquor to the lips.” I’ve had the opportunity to witness one of these things firsthand and found myself struck by his boundless energy, effortless charisma, and genuine passion for the brand. Many celebrities with brands talk the talk; few walk as fervently as these two.

In 2023 celebrity liquor brands are beyond ubiquitous. Seemingly every week, another familiar face lends their weight to a new spirit with varying degrees of quality and success. From a business perspective, the logic is sound. As you are probably well aware, in 2017, Clooney and Co. sold Casamigos to Diageo for a billion dollars. By 2025 the global market size for alcoholic beverages is estimated to surpass $2.2 trillion. A cynic might look at Dos Hombres and think that someone saw what Casamigos did for tequila and said, “Let’s do that for mezcal,” and cravenly found Cranston and Paul endorse it. They would be wrong.

“This is all self-funded by Bryan and [me] from the very beginning,” Paul tells me. “It wasn’t some big corporation that came to us asking us if we wanted to make a quick buck, slap our name on something, and wish it luck.” No, this is a clear labor of love, something born out of hard work, a two-decade-long friendship, and respect for the culture and tradition from which this spirit comes. It began as the pair pondered their next project a few years after their TV show concluded its snowballing run as a bonafide cultural phenomenon with another slew of Emmys and a rightful place in the pantheon of great television.

Following up on a hit of that magnitude is no small feat, and for a while, the right project seemed evasive. Then Paul had a somewhat outside-the-box idea. Mezcal. “I mean, it’s my favorite spirit,” he tells me. “I come from the bourbon/Scotch/whiskey world…I was always having a glass of whiskey or bourbon…and then I was introduced to mezcal 17 years ago…and I just fell in love with it. It’s just such a clean spirit. The older I got the next morning sort of hurt me a little bit with the darker spirits, but I could have a mezcal, and I feel great. I love the smokiness to it, the peaty-ness.”

He also sensed an opportunity. “I saw such a clear opening there,” Paul says. “There wasn’t a clear frontrunner in the space, and I thought we could take a swing at that.” Once Cranston was on board with the idea, they began an immense education in the spirit’s rich tradition and embarked on frequent trips south of the border where they discovered the tercer hombre in this equation, third-generation Maestro Mezcalero (basically “master mezcal maker”) and partner in Gregorio Velasco. Velasco helped bring the duo’s vision to life and craft an accessible mezcal perfect for bringing this somewhat acquired taste to the masses.

The two speak of their maestro with great reverence. “Every time we go down to Mexico and visit our maestro…he teaches us something different,” Cranston says. As Cranston tells it, Velasco carefully guards the formula for Dos Hombres, not unlike the recipe for Coca-Cola, Colonel Sanders’ 11 herbs and spices…or Heisenberg’s infamous blue. “He has a recipe, like a fine chef has a recipe, for Dos Hombres, and it’s very well tightly kept…we don’t even know it.”

When asked about transitioning from acting to business, Cranston admits that while there was a natural learning curve, the pair relished the challenge. “What’s interesting as actors, every time we start a character, it’s outside of us,” he says. “We don’t know if we’re truly going to get it and to be able to understand that character and grab hold of it. So I just looked at this business in the same way. Oh, it’s outside, here… just have to study and do everything I do as an actor, developing a character to learn as much as I can…keep pulling it in. We’re like dry sponges; just pull it in and learn as much as we can.”

The two both owned production companies, but as Cranston points out, that is within a world they know well. “This is really the first ownership of a business completely outside of anything I had ever been involved with before,” he says. But by all indications, they have been quick studies. In just a few years, they are certainly looking like that frontrunner, as their donkey-adorned bottles can be spotted in more and more retailers, restaurants, and bars. The pair admits they have “lofty goals” for the brand. “We just want to keep growing this thing,” Paul says, “keep educating people on what mezcal is, and swing for that number one spot.”

While it seems they have already attained quite a lot through this endeavor, one major milestone might be eluding them. Cranston surveys the Challenger’s cabin before casually admitting, “We could use a jet to get around…that would be great.” Paul agrees. “You know what? We really could use a jet,” he says, laughing, “Just saying…you know a guy?” Cranston echoes a line from Breaking Bad: “You know a guy who knows a guy who knows a guy who knows a guy?” (At Jetset, we know a few guys.)

All kidding aside, it would seem that the real goals behind Dos Hombres extend far beyond creature comforts. “We have always felt that we can be a massively successful company and still be good stewards to the earth and to people,” Cranston says. “There’s no reason why that cannot be joined…[to] share the joy, share the wealth, do things that are beneficial for people, both here and in Mexico…I think we feel that way because we have never gone after a money plateau. We are going after a product, whether it is a movie that we make or a mezcal that we make, we focus on that to be the best it can be, and if the ripple effect of that is a success, then fantastic.”

To this pair, the work is all they know. To them, the action is the (smoky) juice. “We both are from blue-collar families,” Cranston says. “We didn’t have much money at all when we were growing up, so we don’t know what that’s like; we just know how to work…and every time we achieve another plateau — we break into the top ten, the top five, now we’re number four — we cheers, and we go back to work.” He pauses for a moment, looking at his partner. “I kind of like it that way.” The two raise their glasses. Salud to the next plateau.

The post Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston: Breaking Into The Beverage Business appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

I first met Jay Leno in 2007, when he was doubling down on his passion for all things automotive. Around the same time, a well-known Harley-Davidson dealership gifted him the Elvis 30th Anniversary Limited Edition motorcycle, one of only 30 replicas of Elvis’ 1957 motorcycle. Leno was still in his iconic days of The Tonight Show and was the same easy going, humble person as he is today. As time passed, he transcended into the ultimate “car guy” through the lens of Jay Leno’s Garage, which recently concluded their 7th season on CNBC.

You’ll often find Jay Leno in his button-down denim shirts and jeans, his go-to uniform while working on his 204 cars and 168 motorcycles—amid his 140,000 sq. ft. private Big Dog Garage which is nestled away in Burbank, CA. “NBC gave me 52 denim shirts… and all my guests on the show seem to give me denim shirts. Currently, I have 518 in my closet right now,” he confides candidly. Aside from filming Jay Leno’s Garage, the former late night czar hosts 150 stand-up comedy performances around the country for social, corporate and non-profit events. Of course, he travels exclusively by private jet.

“The trouble with flying commercial is you can’t get anywhere. I was the third most frequent traveler in the 80’s,” Leno recalls. He emphasizes further, “They can’t guarantee you’d get there the same day and I can’t afford to leave 2,500 people stranded.”

While Leno doesn’t own a jet, he feels it’s more optimal to lease them for travel. “Pilots must have 12 hours between flights. So, I lease planes. Otherwise I would need two planes,” Leno explains. His favorites are a Lear 45, Challenger and a Hawker. The comedic kingpin chuffs, “As long as there’s a bathroom and room to stand up… that’s a good jet.”

Leno handles his own ground transportation in his Tesla Model S Plaid. He values the Tesla because it requires no maintenance and beats the $7 per gallon signs he sees while driving throughout Los Angeles. When traveling, he doesn’t bring an entourage and also enjoys traveling solo. “I always deal with things myself. I carry my own bags. Funny things always happen before you’re famous,” he grins slyly. “It just goes downhill from there. When you do the things yourself. It makes things funnier. That’s what real life is.”

Traveling isn’t something he does for relaxing vacations. Anytime he can, he would rather just go home. “Paying for a hotel makes no sense,” he surmises. “When you do this for a living, my life is already like a vacation. Taking a week off makes me want to get back to work.” While there are no vacations in the traditional sense, Leno does visit his second home in Rhode Island that he purchased in 2017 with his wife of over 40 years, Mavis. When in residence there, he enjoys popping into local faves Joe’s and Nikolas Pizza.

When at home in Los Angeles, Leno drives a few different cars. “I usually take something different from what I’m working on. Something like a Model T. They can’t steal it or figure out how to drive it,” he chuckles. If he had to choose only a few cars to keep—now that’s a tough question for this avid collector. “I like everything I have and some are way more valuable than others,” he offers jovially. “I would keep the Tesla because it’s practical. Also, I like the cars from the 1920’s and the F1 McLaren.”

Through it all, Leno wouldn’t exactly classify what he does as work. Leno says, “It’s not work if you like your hobby. Jay’s Garage is a rolling version of The Tonight Show. It’s more about the story… it’s beyond the car on Jay’s Garage.” He goes on to elaborate, “When you were a kid, we lead with the example of ‘what did your dad drive?’… so we go find a ‘62 Chevy and pick up ice cream. It’s a story. Everyone has a connection to a car. They lost their virginity in a car… they had their first experience in a car, and it has a hold on people.”

Reminiscing on a particularly poignant encounter, Leno shares, “One time I had a 94-year-old lady that called me about a Hudson Hornet and asked me to come look at the car. Her husband had passed away. It was a worn out car… so I decided to purchase the car and fix it up.” Two years later, he calls her and takes her for a ride with her kids, aged 72 and 74. He recalls, “The two kids have her blindfolded for the surprise. So, she is touching the car and starts crying with her blindfold on. Shortly after we get into the car, she starts scolding her kids saying, ‘I told you two to behave’ and screams at them for misbehaving. The kids talk about being ashamed that their dad was driving a car from the 50’s while they were in high school. Every time I take the car out, I think of her smacking the kids around. It was a lot of fun and laughs.”

Some stories unfortunately veer into misadventure. In November, Leno had an emergency unfold at the garage when his face caught fire while working on a clogged fuel line in the undercarriage of a 1907 White Steam Car. Leno was quickly pulled out from under the car by his longtime friend, Dave Killackey and was treated for burns and underwent extensive surgery on his face, neck, chest, hands and left arm.

As usual, Leno makes light of the situation and doesn’t complain. “People seem to enjoy rich people on fire,” he quips. “When I grew up in New England, we weren’t rich. I always said if I had an extra 50K, I would be well off. It’s hard to watch people complain on TV. I never want to be the whining celebrity.”

Though Leno says he’s trying to do less these days, he quickly becomes energized when talking up Jay Leno’s Garage and his line of car care products which debuted a few years ago, sold on Amazon and in Walmart stores. The products are affordable and easy to use, that any car owner—regardless of skill-level—can use on their vehicle. “We developed the products in the garage and it all started from the metal polish that we needed,” says Leno. “So, we used chemists to make the product work well and now it’s available for sale.”

Leno attributes his success to something playfully unique. “I’m a huge believer in low self-esteem. I try not to believe the bad stuff. I need the genius in this business… since most people can’t do anything. I’m good at just one thing. I hire the best people I can and just let them do their job.” An ethos that has certainly served this legendary impresario well indeed.

The post Jay Leno’s Third Act: From Cruising in Classic Cars to Private Jets appeared first on JetsetMag.com.

The path to financial success is often built upon a strong foundation of real estate investments. Ask any billionaire how they acquired their wealth and the answer will almost always include an early-stage venture into the sector. For the most successful, those titans of industry whose unmatched financial savvy and influence shape the world around them, the value of a deep understanding of real estate investing cannot be overstated. Visionary entrepreneur and social media icon Grant Cardone, one of the most prominent real estate moguls in modern history, is raising the bar by inspiring millions of devoted followers to join him on his journey and follow his unconventional approach to building financial security.

You’ve almost certainly heard of Cardone. The charismatic investor is globally recognized for his business-building leadership and the massively popular 10X business concept that’s helped fuel his meteoric rise on the world stage. With a portfolio of real estate investments worth north of four billion dollars, the innovative influencer has used his knowledge and experience to teach others how to build substantial wealth, all while also building his empire of successful businesses. CEO, entrepreneur, real estate investor, NY Times bestselling author, expert sales trainer, social media guru, and motivational public speaker barely scratch the surface of what makes Grant Cardone a genuine success story. We sat down with the jetsetting businessman to learn more about how he built his fortune and what it takes to become one of the most recognized names on the world wide web.

Grant Cardone wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth, unlike many of his billionaire colleagues. Originating from humble beginnings, the larger-than-life personality tells us his upbringing was significantly impacted by the death of his father when he was only ten. Cardone’s dad was the son of two Italian immigrants, and he worked feverishly to support his family. Having lived through the Great Depression, his father was the first in his family to get a formal education.

“My dad grinded to get our family into the middle class, and even though I was a very young boy, I knew he was proud of his achievements. He died only a short year after he had finally confirmed our family’s position in the middle class: home and car paid for and a little life insurance,” he states as we delve into what inspired the savvy entrepreneur to break the mold. “My dad didn’t work hard because he wanted fancy stuff. He did so because he thought it was his responsibility to provide for his wife and kids. He approached work as his duty to provide for his family. He instilled this work ethic in me by how he lived his life.”

According to Cardone, his mother was a stay-at-home mom prior to his father’s passing, without any meaningful training or employable skills, who spent much of her time clipping coupons out of fear that there wouldn’t be enough money to pay the bills. Cardone expresses how he could feel her fear and the stress the financial insecurity imposed. In his teenage years, the grief and resentment over losing his father took Cardone down a path that ultimately led to drug and alcohol use. By the time he was 18, he was using drugs almost every day, and at age 20 he experienced yet another major loss when his older brother died suddenly from an accident. The trauma only accelerated his substance abuse problems, leading him to feel like a disappointment to both himself and his family.

A few years later, at the age of 23, Cardone ended up in the hospital after nearly being killed by some unsavory people he was mixed up with. That was when he realized he had hit rock bottom and made the decision to completely change his life. As he says, “It was that day I decided success is not an option. I have to have it and turn myself around. It’s all about me now.” Quitting all drugs, alcohol, and anything else that was holding him back, Cardone committed to becoming the best version of himself. That journey was not without significant hurdles, though, as the economy was in a slump and with record unemployment, he had no option but to take a job in car sales.

Speaking of that time, he tells us, “I decided to make the best of it. I learned everything I could about selling cars. I spent the next two years developing my sales skills and saving my money. From there, I used that money to buy my first piece of real estate.” As the story goes, Cardone was eventually fired from that auto sales job for something he didn’t do. “This pissed me off. I swore that I would never depend on anyone else for a job again. And I put all of my effort and energy into starting and growing my own business.”

“I had become very good as a salesperson and so I started consulting with businesses, teaching them how to increase their sales using customer retention and customer satisfaction strategies I had created. That business kept me busy traveling the country, logging 3 million air miles on United, Delta and Continental.” He further confesses, “I have never been a stock guy and I hated saving money at the bank, so I started buying apartment buildings in my free time.”

Grant Cardone amassed significant wealth from his initial investments, but the real estate business was not without woes of its own. The recession of 2008 put Cardone’s resiliency to the test, as each of his businesses were all but obliterated in the wake of the financial downturn. He and his wife had a new baby on the way at the time and, as he explains, “The Great Recession Wake Up Call forced me to understand a few million dollars of net worth, two businesses, and a couple of hundred apartments was NOT enough to ensure my future. I had to go 10 TIMES (10X) bigger, ten times more customers, 10X more verticals (industries), 10X the income, 10X the properties, 10X the employees, 10X everything.”

Cardone’s outrageously successful 10X concept was born.

“Just 12 years ago, I only had three employees and two businesses and 260 apartment units. I was flying commercial everywhere and all my business combined probably did $2M per year. Today, I run eight different businesses, gross income is $155M in revenue from the businesses, another $350M from the 12,440 apartment units, I fly private on a 2020 Gulfstream 650ER, an Augusta 139 Helicopter, and my partner at Cardone Ventures operates a Falcon 900. Rather than having a couple of hundred customers, today I have almost four million who do business with me in 160 countries.”

The visionary entrepreneur has since gone on to inspire millions of people across the globe by sharing his story and the secrets of his success as an investor and real estate expert. Combined with his years of sales consulting experience, Cardone’s bestselling book, The 10X Rule, led the international magnate to launch the 10X Growth Conference, 10X Global Movement, and a number of Cardone-branded companies, all with a mission to “help others improve their businesses, careers, finances and relationships.”

There’s no disputing his phenomenal success as an author, business luminary, and CEO of multiple subsidiaries including Cardone Capital, Cardone Ventures, Cardone Training Technologies, and The Grant Cardone Foundation. We asked the colorful castle-builder to share some insights with our readers about what it takes to master the dynamics of real estate, become a highly respected social media influencer, and use his reach to create multi-million-dollar crowdfunding campaigns.

Cardone tells us the three things people struggle with most in real estate are discipline, patience, and not thinking big enough. (Thinking big is his own personal mantra and the fuel behind his meteoric rise). As he wisely states, “In real estate, it’s not if you make money; the question is when. Real wealth is created over time, not quarters – much less, minutes. And one of the reasons I love real estate so much is I am able to invest in an asset and be paid to wait (passive income monthly) and as rents increase over time, so will the value of the property.”

While he candidly admits that the best time to invest in real estate was 20 years ago, Cardone firmly believes in the future of the sector, predicting that “investors, not homeowners, will continue to represent a larger majority of those purchasing single family homes in America. [The US] is becoming a nation of renters and nothing can change that. Inflation will only make [home ownership] less possible.”

Always thinking 10X bigger, Grant Cardone employs a similar approach to social media. “People make social media success harder than it needs to be. Frequency and quantity beat production and quality,” he tells Jetset. “I am never trying to go viral or be popular, and I never worry about how much I post. I don’t use filters or much editing, and I know quantity is senior to quality – or at least it has been for me. I share everything with [my followers]: the jet, helicopters, the real estate purchases, our victories, setbacks, the travel, and I do this on good hair days and bad. My policy is promote, promote, promote. @grantcardone”

Remarkably, Cardone says he’s raised almost $1B in cash without using brokers and banks, instead allowing anyone to invest in his business ventures through crowdfunding. His proven track record of success has empowered millions of followers to watch for his next investment and have the chance to earn passive income every month, along with tax benefits from any remaining depreciation. He proudly professes, “While many people raise money for real estate, no one has ever done what I am doing.”

The crowdsourcing concept carries over into Cardone’s philanthropic efforts as well, leveraging his massive following to help others in need. In addition to his 10X Health initiative (focused on wellness and positive energy), The Grant Cardone Foundation is designed specifically to help children without fathers. The charity’s mission statement is “To provide mentoring and financial literacy education to adolescents in underserved and at-risk populations, especially those without a father figure.”

He proudly declares, “I can’t think of a more worthwhile goal – especially because I grew up poor and without a father figure myself. Every single person will have a different story, but where you start has nothing to do with where you end up. With the right information and a dedication to success, anyone can become a millionaire. My greatest passion is helping people do just that.”

Grant Cardone is an impressively fit 64-year-old. When asked how he maintains his vigorous health as a busy jetsetting entrepreneur, he notes how a commitment to his personal well-being led to the purchase of another business now known as 10X Health. “I start each day and follow what we call our 10X Health System Super Human Protocols with my exercise, recovery, managing any joint pain, and boosting my immune system. Business is about creativity, energy, passion, leadership and being a good example. How can you do any of this if you are in pain, don’t have the energy and don’t feel good about yourself?” While a strict diet is not a major component of his regime, he says he tries to eat healthy, nutritious food and always leaves a little on his plate.

Cardone shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon. Asked what our readers can expect from the Cardone brand over the next few years, he says, “You can always expect me to 10X everything I have already done.” From growing his real estate holdings and expanding his wellness business to more than 1,000 10X Health Centers, to shooting seven entrepreneur television shows and continuing to sell out events like the 2023 10X Growth Conference (10xgrowthcon.com), Cardone reiterates, “We are teaching people that the only way to protect themselves is through expansion. If you aren’t expanding, you’re contracting.”

We couldn’t wrap up our conversation with Cardone before asking him about his passion for private jets and fast cars. While he happily admits that the time savings and convenience of flying private are noteworthy benefits, he highlights another great perk: “I get to take my family with me everywhere and they all work with me in the business. So I get the best of all worlds, watching my kids grow up and having an influence on them while being on a business trip. We homeschool the girls, just at 51,000 feet and 700 mph.”

In terms of high-end supercars and luxury sedans, Cardone reiterates, “One of the smartest things I did in my life was that I didn’t go and buy exotic cars like so many of my friends the first time they got a little bit of money.” He suggests that people who want to create wealth should wait to spend their money on watches and cars until their investments can pay for them. “People should convert earned income to assets and wait for the assets to produce passive income that buys the Rolls-Royce or the Gulfstream. That’s what I did. I didn’t buy the stupid stuff (including the jet) until I could follow my When to Buy Stupid Stuff Rules: (1) Able to buy two of them, (2) from passive Income, (3) with cash, not debt, and (4) admit it is still stupid.”

Finally, we asked Mr. Cardone to share one piece of advice he would give his younger self. His response perfectly encapsulates the man behind the marketing machine: “I would think much BIGGER. I would give myself permission to be completely obsessed. I would not do what I am good at, I would do what I could get super rich at. I would GO all in and stay broke (as I have done in my life and still do today). I would run from the middle-class, giving anything that suggests comfort the middle finger and bet on my real true potential. And lastly, the most important thing is to help others become all you become and more.”

We couldn’t have said it better.

Find and follow Grant Cardone on social media @grantcardone, that is unless you already do.

The post Grant Cardone: Living His Best Life, To the Power of 10X appeared first on JetsetMag.com.