In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali turns a messy topic into a simple, repeatable playbook for Meta/Instagram ads that actually convert. He lays out why ads aren’t magic but systems, then teaches a five-step framework any coach, creator, agency, or brand can use: start with a razor-sharp offer, craft hooks that win the first three seconds, match ad types to buyer awareness, keep visuals native, and make your CTA and funnel frictionless. Along the way, he shares concrete hook formulas, five proven ad archetypes (from pain-lead to lifestyle identity), creative tips that make ads feel like content, and a pragmatic testing protocol for finding winners fast and scaling them without resetting the learning phase. You’ll hear why “offers beat aesthetics,” how to qualify prospects in line one, what to avoid in creative (stocky, overproduced, corporate), and exactly which metrics to track (CPC, CPL, CAC) to know when to kill or scale. If you’ve ever boosted a post and hoped for the best, this episode replaces hope with a system.

Takeaways

• Ads are systems powered by psychology and buyer understanding, not luck.

• A strong, specific, outcome-driven offer beats clever creative.

• Use simple “I help…” offer formulas to sharpen value and urgency.

• Hooks win or lose the ad in the first three seconds; call out the audience directly.

• Deploy curiosity gaps and bold benefits to earn the next line.

• Match ad type to awareness: pain-lead (cold), social proof (warm), demo, offer-driven, lifestyle/identity.

• Native, raw creative (selfie video, B-roll, subtitles, carousels) outperforms overproduced designs.

• Avoid stock photos, jargon, and anything that “feels like an ad.”

• Keep the CTA and funnel ultra-simple, especially on mobile (DM keywords, lead forms).Test 3–5 variations around the same offer; track by hook and key unit metrics (CPC, CPL, CAC).

• Kill losers quickly; scale winners gradually (≈20–30% budget increases) to protect learning.

• The best ads feel like content, and the best funnels feel like conversations.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Intro: Why most Instagram ads fail

00:45 Ads are systems: 3 jobs (stop, believe, act)

01:30 Step 1: Build a specific, outcome-driven offer

02:15 Step 2: Hooks that stop the scroll (formulas & examples)

03:14 Step 3: Choose ad types by buyer awareness

05:00 Step 4: Native visuals that don’t feel like ads

06:10 Step 5: Clear CTAs and low-friction funnels

07:10 Testing playbook: variants, metrics, and decisions

08:10 Scaling without breaking learning (20–30% rule)

08:50 Recap: Six rules for high-converting Meta ads

09:30 Closing: Free resource in the show notes and next steps

Want to work with Nick?:

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In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali dives deep into the real reason why so many of us fall off track when pursuing our goals, and how to fix it for good. Drawing from personal experiences and a proven step-by-step framework, Nickolas shares a simple yet powerful system designed to help you stay consistent long after the initial motivation wears off.

He walks through the process of redefining your identity around who you want to become, setting SMART goals that are both meaningful and measurable, and building momentum through small, achievable habits. Nickolas also highlights the importance of positive self-talk, accountability, and the compounding effect of habits that eventually become second nature.

Packed with practical insights, personal marathon stories, and a touch of humor, this solo episode is the perfect guide for anyone who struggles with consistency, whether in fitness, business, or personal growth. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear framework to follow, empowering you to transform not just your habits, but your identity.

Takeaways

• Consistency begins with identity: focus on becoming the kind of person who achieves the outcome.

• SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) are key to tracking progress.

• Start small — momentum beats perfection when building new habits.

• Small daily wins compound into massive transformation over time.

• Positive self-talk improves performance and resilience during challenges.

• Accountability equals power: take ownership of your actions to create change.

• Use encouragement, not shame, when holding yourself to a higher standard.

• Habits should become automatic, reducing the mental load required to stay consistent.

• Your routines should reflect your identity and carry you through hard days.

• The real reward is not the goal itself, but who you become on the way to achieving it.

• Treat self-reflection as mentorship — guide yourself with compassion and clarity.

• Adversity is easier to handle when habits are hardwired and instinctual.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Intro & Why Consistency Fails

00:25 Step 1 – Define Your Identity

01:15 Step 2 – Set SMART Goals

01:50 Step 3 – Start Small, Build Momentum

02:40 Step 4 – Positive Self-Talk & Accountability

03:20 Marathon Story & Mindset Shift

04:30 Step 5 – Turn Actions into Habits

05:20 Recap – The Consistency Framework

06:30 Closing Thoughts & Free Guide

Want to work with Nick?:

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Free Resources Made by Nick:

https://nickolasnatali.gumroad.com/

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https://www.amazon.com/shop/nickolasnatali

Support The Nickolas Natali Show on Patreon⁠:

https://www.patreon.com/nickolasnatali

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DM Nick on Instagram:

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In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali explores the powerful idea that “there is always another level” in every area of life. Drawing from his recent experience running the OC Marathon, Nickolas shares how endurance training taught him to break through mental and physical ceilings and embrace the discomfort of growth. He reflects on lessons from Patrick Bet-David about capacity — how it’s not just talent, but how you use your time, network, and resources — and how we often stay in arenas where we’re comfortable instead of pushing to the next level.

Nickolas opens up about his own journey in business and podcasting, describing how creating and refining systems means being willing to “suck” before you get better. He challenges listeners to look honestly at where they might be underperforming, even while receiving praise from their peers. Through personal stories, vivid metaphors, and motivating insights, this episode will inspire you to leave your comfort zone, embrace humility, and intentionally seek the next challenge.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or athlete, this episode is a wake-up call to stop coasting, start leveling up, and discover just how far you can go.

Takeaways

• There is always another level in every area of life — growth never ends.

• The “ceiling” you hit is often just a checkpoint, not the actual limit.

• Leveling up requires embracing discomfort and being willing to “suck again.”

• True capacity is more than talent — it’s how you use your time, network, and focus.

• Endurance sports can teach powerful lessons about mindset, grit, and resilience.

• External validation from peers should not cap your own potential.

• Growth often feels humbling and uncomfortable but leads to transformation.

• You must do the hard, uncomfortable work (e.g., speed sessions) to maximize potential.

• Systems in business (sales, content, operations) must be created, refined, and delegated — even when messy.

• Success comes from pushing beyond “winning in a small arena” and seeking bigger challenges.

• Reflect on where you might be playing it safe instead of stretching toward growth.

• Make a habit of doing one thing that makes you a beginner again each week.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Intro & Idea Spark

01:00 Lessons from the OC Marathon

02:30 The Two Races in a Marathon

03:25 Patrick Bet-David’s Insight

04:50 Business Parallels

06:00 Training at Full Capacity

07:45 Getting Lapped by Seniors

08:15 Raising Your Vision

09:30 From Top 20% to Bottom 80%

10:35 Lessons from Past Episodes

12:30 Gary Vee & Kevin Hart Moment

13:05 Final Challenge

Want to work with Nick?:

https://allthingsmediallc.com/

Free Resources Made by Nick:

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https://www.amazon.com/shop/nickolasnatali

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DM Nick on Instagram:

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In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali explores a powerful question that has changed the way he approaches life and business: “What if it were easy?” This solo episode is a deep dive into how we often overcomplicate challenges, using complexity as a crutch to avoid action. Nickolas breaks down his three-step “Easy Mode Framework” for stripping away unnecessary steps, defining root problems, and building momentum through immediate action.

He shares insights on how to stop wasting time on “fake work,” make intentional choices that align with your goals, and eliminate mental clutter that keeps you from moving forward. Drawing inspiration from Tim Ferriss’s famous list of questions, Nickolas emphasizes that simplicity is not laziness — it’s the key to faster execution, reduced anxiety, and consistent progress. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or simply someone who feels stuck, this episode is a practical guide to breaking free from overthinking and taking the next simplest step toward growth.

Takeaways

• Complexity often masks procrastination and fear of failure.

• Asking “What if it were easy?” reframes challenges and opens solutions.

• Simplicity creates momentum — clarity leads to action.

• The three-step Easy Mode Framework: define the root problem, remove unnecessary steps, take one immediate action.

• Use the “eliminate, delegate, automate” filter to clear your plate.

• Momentum is built by doing, not just planning.

• Question whether you are being intentional or simply reacting out of habit.

• Fake work can feel productive but keeps you stuck; track your time to eliminate it.

• Choosing the simplest path reduces anxiety and decision fatigue.

• Small wins compound confidence and accelerate growth.

• Asking better questions can dissolve overthinking and reveal direct solutions.

• Real-world success often comes from simple, focused systems — like a single funnel that converts reliably.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Asking “What If It Were Easy?”

00:46 Complexity as a Crutch: Why We Stay Stuck

01:30 The Core Principle: Simplicity Creates Momentum

02:05 Step 1: Define the Root Problem (Not the Symptoms)

02:50 Step 2: Remove the Fluff & Unnecessary Steps

03:30 Step 3: Take Immediate Action & Build Momentum

04:00 The Intentionality Filter: Am I Doing Real Work or Fake Work?

04:45 Benefits of Choosing the “Easy” Path

05:32 Lessons from Tim Ferriss & Reframing Problems

06:20 Final Challenge: Apply “Easy Mode” to One Problem This Week

07:00 Real-World Example: One Simple Funnel That Works

07:45 Closing Thoughts & Call to Action

Want to work with Nick?:

https://allthingsmediallc.com/

Free Resources Made by Nick:

https://nickolasnatali.gumroad.com/

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https://www.amazon.com/shop/nickolasnatali

Support The Nickolas Natali Show on Patreon⁠:

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DM Nick on Instagram:

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In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali dives deep into the fundamentals of scaling paid ads profitably, whether you’re just starting out, aiming to grow from six figures, or breaking through eight. Instead of chasing shortcuts or secret hacks, Nickolas emphasizes timeless principles of trust, friction, proof, and creative output.

He unpacks the key differences between local and national ad strategies, explaining why trust dynamics shift dramatically depending on the audience. You’ll learn how to diagnose bottlenecks in your campaigns, from low-quality leads to expensive clicks, and why friction in your funnel can be both a filter and a growth lever. Nickolas also shares the “70-20-10” scaling model that the best marketers use to maximize winning ads, plus practical guidance on expanding to new platforms without wasting budget.

With real-world examples, clear frameworks, and actionable tactics, this episode equips you to think like a strategist, not a gambler—building ad systems that scale sustainably and withstand platform challenges. Whether you’re in high-compliance industries or simply trying to get better results from your campaigns, these insights will help you sharpen your approach and outpace competitors.

Takeaways

• Diagnose ad performance issues by identifying whether the bottleneck is trust, friction, proof, or traffic.

• Local businesses enjoy built-in trust; national brands must build it through proof and nurture sequences.

• Use friction strategically: add it to filter low-quality leads, remove it to increase volume.

• Not all friction is equal—slow websites kill conversions, but long VSLs can prequalify buyers.

• Proof outperforms promises; strong proof includes real case studies, customer videos, and relevant testimonials.

• Always match proof to the exact type of customer you’re targeting for maximum trust.

• Apply the 70-20-10 scaling model: 70% spend on proven winners, 20% on variations, 10% on experiments.

• Squeeze maximum value from winning creatives by repurposing hooks and reskinning ads.

• Expand platforms in order: retarget everywhere, secure brand terms, then test new interruption platforms.

• Structure offers to maximize conversions with trials, low-ticket entry points, and nurture funnels.

• In high-compliance industries, use audits and long-form assets to protect ad accounts.

• Sustainable scaling comes from fundamentals—not hacks—focusing on trust, proof, creative volume, and resource allocation.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The truth about scaling ads

00:36 Diagnosing bottlenecks in ad performance

01:20 Local vs. national ad strategies

02:15 Using friction as a growth lever

03:01 Proof vs. promises: why evidence wins

04:30 The 70-20-10 scaling model explained

05:30 Platform expansion roadmap

06:15 Offer structures that convert

07:05 Navigating compliance-heavy industries

07:53 Core fundamentals of scaling ads

08:30 Closing thoughts and next steps

Want to work with Nick?:

https://allthingsmediallc.com/

Free Resources Made by Nick:

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https://www.amazon.com/shop/nickolasnatali

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In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali dives deep into one of the most universal struggles we all face: how to stop letting our past define our future. Instead of treating past mistakes, regrets, or old identities as permanent labels, Nick shares a compelling reframe: your past is a chapter, not a life sentence. Through practical insights and relatable examples, he explains why the past should be used as reference, not residence, and how to step into the freedom of creating a new identity.

Listeners will learn how to handle people who still see them as their “old self,” why changing your environment is sometimes a necessity, and how to set boundaries without bitterness. Nick also lays out three actionable steps to break free from the past: renaming old chapters, upgrading your identity, and stacking small wins daily to build unstoppable momentum. With a mix of encouragement and tough love, this episode will inspire you to see yourself not as a product of your history, but as the author of your next chapter.

Takeaways

• Your past is a chapter, not a life sentence—it informs you but does not define you.

• Use past experiences as data points, not as permanent identity markers.

• Transformation can happen in a single decision; change is always available.

• Ask yourself: what old identity am I still clinging to that no longer serves me?

• You don’t need to explain your growth—let your consistent actions and results prove it.

• Evaluate your environment: does it support your growth or your limitations?

• Setting boundaries doesn’t mean bitterness—you can grow and still wish others well.

• Reframe regrets by renaming the chapter: extract the lesson and move forward.

• Focus on who you want to become, not just what you should do.

• Build momentum with small, daily wins that reinforce your new identity.

• Releasing the past frees you to act faster, build real confidence, and attract aligned people.

• You are allowed to evolve, outgrow relationships, and author your next chapter.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: You Are Not Your Past

00:40 The Past as Reference, Not Residence

01:20 Breaking Free from Old Identities

02:05 Handling People Who See You as the “Old You”

03:04 The Power of Environment and Boundaries

04:00 Three Practical Steps to Move Forward

04:50 Benefits of Releasing the Past

05:29 Closing Thoughts: Becoming the Author of Your Next Chapter

Want to work with Nick?:

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In this episode of The Nickolas Natali Show, Nickolas Natali sits down with Aaron Walker, also known as “Big A,” a veteran entrepreneur, author of View From the Top, and founder of the Iron Sharpens Iron Brotherhood. Aaron shares his remarkable journey from launching his first pawn shop at 18, scaling and selling multiple businesses, to ultimately finding purpose beyond financial success.

The conversation explores Aaron’s early grit, working long hours, marketing door-to-door, and reinvesting every dollar back into his business—as well as the challenges that came with selling young and wrestling with identity and purpose afterward. Aaron opens up about life-changing moments, including a tragic car accident that reshaped his view of legacy, the power of forgiveness in a $41,000 betrayal, and how true freedom comes not from wealth alone but from purposeful impact.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on perseverance, building trust, navigating partnerships, contentment vs. complacency, and the importance of living with honesty and faith. Aaron’s stories—raw, vulnerable, and inspiring, remind us that fulfillment comes not from what we acquire, but from how we serve, love, and lead others.

Takeaways

• Grit and perseverance can outweigh formal education in entrepreneurship.

• Delayed gratification and reinvesting profits builds long-term wealth.

• Marketing creatively—even taping flyers to mailboxes—can spark community growth.

• A “no” is often temporary; persistence can turn it into a “yes.”

• Selling a business doesn’t guarantee fulfillment; purpose and impact matter more.

• Relationships and community provide deeper meaning than financial wins.

• Forgiveness frees the one who forgives, even if the offender never asks for it.

• Honest friends who “love you enough to tell the truth” are invaluable.

• Legacy isn’t about money—it’s about who you help and how you’re remembered.

• Partnerships with friends require documented agreements to protect relationships.

• Contentment means gratitude in all circumstances; complacency means stagnation.

• Fulfillment evolves with life stages: career success, family impact, and legacy.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Intro & Welcome

01:00 Aaron’s First Pawn Shop at 18

03:00 Early Hustle & Door-to-Door Marketing

06:00 Core Values: Creativity & Grit

07:30 Selling at 27 and the Depression After Success

10:00 Rediscovering Purpose Beyond Money

12:00 Building Again & The Power of “No”

15:00 Purpose vs. Pleasure: Why We Can’t Just Retire

18:00 Honest Friends and Brutal Truths

20:30 Life-Changing Accident & Legacy Shift

26:00 Vulnerability, Trust, and Mastermind Groups

28:00 Tragedy, Faith, and Rethinking Life’s Priorities

32:00 Running From vs. Running To in Business Decisions

36:00 The $41,000 Betrayal & Forgiveness Story

45:00 Partnerships, Friendships & Best Practices

50:00 Contentment vs. Complacency

54:00 What a Fulfilling Life Truly Means

56:00 How to Connect with Aaron & Closing Thoughts

Want to work with Nick?:

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Aaron Walker’s Social Media Link:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/

Aaron Walker’s Website:

https://www.isibrotherhood.com/