Dean Graziosi is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker known for his practical success strategies. With over 25 years of experience, he’s helped millions transform their lives and has partnered with Tony Robbins on major programs.
Ari: What's something that interests you right now?
Dean: I think what's interesting right now is how polarized society has become. I've loved being in this industry that helps people find new paths to success. 28 years ago, I saw Tony Robbins on an infomercial, and it felt like he was talking directly to me. I'd never bought personal development stuff before, but I bought it immediately.
Tony made me see we’re all meant for more. Those who gain new skills, model proven practices, and take bold actions have the chance to succeed. Maybe it’s not for everyone, but I bet the people listening to you are ready to move to the next level.
Today, we have a divided world, with people waiting to see what happens next. Personally, I feel there's a new wave of people thinking, "I'm responsible for myself. No president or leader will come to save me. It’s up to me."
Whether I win or fail, that's my responsibility — and I can learn from it. As an entrepreneur for 40 years, I see people excited again, realizing they must depend on themselves. It's crazy out there, so why not take responsibility, gain new skills, and move forward? That's what's exciting to me now.
Ari: What's something about the entrepreneurial mindset you've discovered that's a game-changer — not just for business people but anyone wanting a better life?
Dean: A couple of things. First, you must have a compelling reason to move forward. To achieve more, you need to stretch yourself and take uncomfortable action. It's scary doing something different — something your parents, spouse, or society might not understand.
The only way to overcome fear is to have a strong reason why you’re doing it. Courage isn't the absence of fear; it’s moving forward even when you’re scared.
When starting your business, I bet you had fears. You probably still do.
Ari: Still do.
Dean: And that won't change. You just have to find bigger reasons to crush that doubt. For me, it’s control over my calendar. I love spending time with my wife and four kids. No one else is going to decide if I miss a dance recital or baseball practice. Also, I grew up broke, and I don't want to go backward. I feel like I was put here to help others. Any of these reasons gets me moving, even when it's uncomfortable.
Usually, old beliefs come up — like blaming the economy, your age, or education for why you can’t succeed. But these beliefs don't serve you. Replace them with new stories: instead of "I didn't go to college," think, "Because I didn't go to college, I'm more innovative." Instead of thinking you lack resources, see yourself as resourceful.
Pick a growing industry, model successful people, serve your clients better than others, and obsess over marketing and sales more than you think necessary.
Ari: There are so many voices on social media. It's important to speak up, but also scary. You probably didn't start in front of a camera. How did you decide to be a voice for others?
Dean: I bought Tony Robbins' course 28 years ago, the year you were born.
That course taught me two things. First, life happens for us, not to us. Challenges aren't punishments — they’re meant to shape us. All the struggles you faced were by design, meant to make you who you are today.
Second, I realized Tony sold knowledge and experience, not physical products. I decided that's what I wanted to do: share my life experiences to help others. Before starting, though, I worried I wasn't good enough. Tony Robbins was tall, famous, rich. Who was I? But another voice asked, "Who are you not to do this?" We all face these doubts. At life's end, do you want to regret not trying?
Thankfully, I chose courage. And you'll face this again as you grow. Each time, find new reasons, be bold, and move forward.
Ari: What's your key advice for that transition? Three-and-a-half years in, it still feels like a free-fall.
Dean: It's always scary. Careers offer safety — a regular paycheck, less scary ups and downs. But oftentimes, careers silence creativity and innovation. Eventually, many people give up, settling for less because their ideas get ignored. That’s not really safe — it's missing out on your potential.
Entrepreneurship has no guardrails. Your highs are amazing; your lows are tough. Sometimes, people consider going back to careers, craving safety. But the roller coaster is worth it — controlling your calendar, doing meaningful work, making a real impact. No one at life's end says they're glad they stayed in a job they hated.
Like Theodore Roosevelt said, don't sit in the stands cheering others — get in the arena. You’ll get knocked around, but that's how you grow into who you're meant to be. Keep moving forward, Ari. Look back at the man you were three years ago — you've come far.
Ari: Have you seen these memes from kids explaining why people shouldn't do nine-to-five jobs?
Dean: No, but I love that. I'll check it out.
Ari: Are you optimistic about younger generations?
Dean: I am. People get depressed when they lose hope for the future. Today, young people constantly hear how everything is falling apart. Without a compelling future, why try?
Historically, innovation solves problems. I believe we can overcome current challenges through creativity and entrepreneurship.
My kids' generation, especially my 16-year-old son’s friends, are very optimistic. They grew up with technology, unafraid of change. I believe this young generation can solve many problems and make the world better.
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