What if real success came from the relationships you build, not the leads you chase? In this episode, I talk with Michael Whitehouse, whose nontraditional path taught him to think differently and trust his own curiosity. As we explore his journey—from big pivots to building a global network—Michael breaks down why relationship capital matters, how his Nine Pillars framework guides entrepreneurs, and why ethical, human-centered coaching makes all the difference. I walked away feeling renewed, and I think you will too, because Michael reminds us that being unstoppable begins with choosing connection and staying a lifelong learner.

Highlights:

00:10Learn how early experiences can shape your ability to think independently.

02:27See why following your own path can create long-term confidence.

05:00Understand how conversations can become meaningful opportunities.

06:34Discover how unexpected changes can open new directions in your work.

09:29Learn how shifting your approach can create new streams of growth.

11:20See how questioning norms can redefine your professional identity.

13:04Understand why relationship capital often matters more than selling.

18:45Learn how asking honest questions can build stronger connections.

25:59Discover why accessibility expands your audience and impact.

32:11Explore how virtual spaces can deepen your global relationships.

39:23Understand how identifying the real issue can simplify your business.

43:30Learn why speaking your client’s language improves your results.

47:49See what ethical coaching looks like from a practical perspective.

52:32Understand how integrity protects your reputation and value.

57:24Discover how a service-first mindset makes networking easier and more authentic.

About the Guest:

Michael had earned his first international vacation through hard work and sales success—seven days in Punta Cana, scheduled for March 31st, 2020. But instead of sandy beaches, he was met with shutdowns. COVID had just taken hold, cancelling both his trip and rapidly dismantling his work as a magazine publisher.

Determined not to go down with the ship, Michael tapped into his networking skills and began exploring online business. He started by adapting his sales skills to the digital world, eventually earning his coaching certification and discovering his true calling: helping others find clarity and success. But launching an online business wasn’t easy. The resources available were all hyper-niched, and no one was teaching the foundational skills needed to get started. So Michael did the hard work—learning through trial, error, and over 3,000 conversations with entrepreneurs.

Four years later, Michael reached his first 6-figure year and created the Nine Foundational Questions of Business, a framework that helps entrepreneurs identify what’s missing in their business. Today, he provides the very kind of support he wishes had existed when he started—guiding new entrepreneurs through the chaos toward clarity and growth.

Ways to connect with Michael**:**

LinkedIn:

Have you ever wondered how a hotel could bring people together and transform a city? In this episode, I talk with Shamim Ehsani, co-founder of Nairobi’s Tribe Hotel, whose vision of “one planet, one tribe” turned hospitality into a living message of unity. Growing up in Kenya, Shamim learned that respect and connection cross every boundary—and he’s built that belief into everything his team does.

We explore how Tribe became a symbol of dignity and authentic service, how art and culture shaped its identity, and why true hospitality starts with valuing people as they are. Shamim’s story reminds us that purpose-driven leadership can turn even a simple idea into something truly unstoppable.

Highlights:

00:58 — Learn how early experiences in Nairobi shaped a lifelong passion for curiosity, courage, and connection.

02:35 — Discover what makes Nairobi one of the world’s most extraordinary cities and why its character inspires unity.

06:55 — Hear how understanding your environment can shape how you design meaningful experiences.

08:06 — Explore how real-world learning can teach the mindset every entrepreneur needs to succeed.

12:56 — Find out why action, not perfection, builds confidence when you’re starting something new.

15:27 — See how vision and perseverance can transform even small beginnings into lasting success.

21:12 — Learn the importance of staying bold when the world around you feels uncertain.

26:44 — Discover how one phrase became the foundation for a purpose-driven movement in hospitality.

33:44 — Understand why true hospitality begins with dignity and self-respect—for both guests and teams.

36:45 — Hear how empowering people to be authentic creates connection and loyalty that can’t be scripted.

44:17 — Learn how investing in people builds confidence, culture, and trust across every interaction.

52:42 — See how storytelling and creativity turn ordinary moments into unforgettable experiences.

About the Guest:

Shamim Ehsani is Co-Founder, Director and Developer of Tribe Hotel, a family-owned and operated,

5-star luxury hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, that channels African authenticity and excellence. Shamim

co-founded the hotel, located in the city’s prestigious diplomatic district, and serves as its Creative

Director, developing new concepts relating to F\&B and service. He is also the hotel’s Marketing Director, overseeing all branding and marketing efforts across the companies and outlets, including developing all of the brands.

Shamim also plays a key role in a constellation of family enterprises that are centered on real estate

development. A prolific and successful entrepreneur, he is also Co-Founder, Director and Developer of Trademark Hotel, Tribe Hotel’s 4-star sister property; Director and Co-Founder of VMX Fitness,

Nairobi’s top fitness facility; Principal and Creative Director of Beeline, a luxury brand marketing

agency; Director of Guardian Holdings, a holding/investment company; and Marketing Director of

Village Market, East Africa’s largest lifestyle and recreation complex.

Shamim co-founded Tribe Hotel with his brother Hooman in 2008 to fulfill a need for a 5-star luxury

hotel in Nairobi’s upscale diplomatic district. The brothers listed the 20 things they did not like about

hotels and set about to create their own that addressed them. The result is a higher standard in global hospitality, with the hotel distinguished as one of the most iconic properties in Africa. The hotel’s guests include royalty, heads of state and countless celebrities. The property boasts 128 rooms, a 10,000-sq.-ft. spa and a heliport.

Tribe Hotel broke away from the colonial style hotels that existed in the market and presents a space that supports the arts and is a better reflection of the wealth and dignity of Africa and the Kenyan people. They transformed the attitude of service from a subservient approach to one that is more egalitarian and congenial, with guests being “hosted” rather than “served.” The hotel boasts 900 African artworks and artifacts curated by Shamim’s mother, Faranak, supports local Nairobi artisans and purveyors, while its acclaimed Jiko restaurant has elevated African cuisine to new heights.

Ways to connect with Shamim**:**

Instagram

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