The Root of All Success with The Real Jason Duncan

What happens when a small-town entrepreneur takes on an $8 billion global giant—and wins?

In this powerful episode, Jason Duncan sits down with R.T. Custer, founder of Vortic Watch Company, to talk about what it really means to bet everything on a vision, fight Goliath in court, and still come out swinging.

From getting sued by the Swatch Group (the world’s largest watchmaker) to almost losing his business, business partner, and life partner, R.T. shares the unfiltered journey of resilience, reinvention, and staying true to the American dream. He also opens up about the dark side of entrepreneurship and how he’s building more than a business—he’s building a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, transparency, and asking the right questions.

🔑 Takeaways from this episode:

How Vortic Watch Company started—and why it almost didn’t make it

What it’s like to go to court against a billion-dollar company

The financial and emotional cost of standing your ground

Why asking for help is the most underrated business skill

How R.T. balances multiple brands without losing focus

The future of American manufacturing and skilled trades

How to build a mission-driven company that employees are proud of

👉 If you’ve ever felt like the underdog, this episode is your reminder that persistence pays off.

Who is R.T. Custer?

R.T. Custer is a serial entrepreneur dedicated to building a legacy through his products and services. In 2014, he co-founded Vortic Watch Company with Tyler Wolfe, transforming antique American pocket watches into unique wristwatches through their American Artisan Series. Their mission to “preserve American history one watch at a time” nearly ended when they were sued by the SWATCH Group in a six-year legal battle. In 2021, they won, setting a legal precedent for upcycling.

Born on a Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania, R.T. comes from a long line of entrepreneurs and believes in the power of nurture over nature. His core values—Respect, Integrity, Empathy, Freedom, and Wealth—guide his business and life. He is now writing American Dreamers: The David v Goliath Story Defending The Right to Upcycle, first as a YouTube docuseries before turning it into a book using AI and expert copywriters. His favorite quote, “Plant trees under whose shade you’ll never sit,” reflects his commitment to long-term impact.

R.T. Custer’s Website Link: vorticwatches.com

R.T. Custer’s Social Media Link:

https://www.instagram.com/vorticwatches

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Feeling overwhelmed trying to do it all? Wondering if it’s finally time to hire a right-hand leader to help scale your business? This episode will show you what it really takes to let go and grow.

On this episode of The Root of All Success, Jason Duncan welcomes Maggie Olson, founder of Nova Chief of Staff, to unpack the misunderstood and often underestimated role of a Chief of Staff. From leading internal transformation at T-Mobile to building the world’s first Chief of Staff certification program, Maggie shares her personal story and expert insight on how business leaders can stop spinning their wheels and start leading with purpose.

🔑 Takeaways from this episode:

• How to know when it’s time to hire a Chief of Staff
• The critical difference between an EA and a Chief of Staff
• What visionary CEOs get wrong when hiring
• The true cost (and ROI) of hiring a Chief of Staff
• What to expect from Nova’s training and placement programs
• How to stop “idea whiplash” and bring alignment to your team
• Why strong leadership isn’t about control—it’s about clarity

Whether you’re a startup founder, a growing CEO, or a solo entrepreneur who feels buried in execution, this conversation is packed with real-world advice to help you reclaim your time and refocus on what matters most.

Who is Maggie Olson?

Maggie Olson is the Founder of Nova Chief of Staff, the premier and first-of-its-kind destination for Chief of Staff education, certification, and development. She has 20 years of experience in retail, food and beverage, and technology sectors and has held leadership roles at Nordstrom and T-Mobile. At T-Mobile, Maggie's impressive work led her to become the first Chief of Staff to the President of the T-Mobile Business Group. In this role, she built the Chief of Staff model from the ground up, creating a highly efficient team and establishing an executive back-office structure, supporting the President, SVPs, and over 5,000 employees. She also built a Chief of Staff team, defining all roles, processes, and systems. Through Nova Chief of Staff, Maggie continues to shape the future of business leadership, providing the tools and resources necessary for Chiefs of Staff to excel in their roles and drive company success.

Maggie’s Website Link: https://www.novachiefofstaff.com/

Maggie’s Social Media Link:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/novachiefofstaff

https://www.instagram.com/novachiefofstaff/

https://www.facebook.com/NovaChiefofStaff/

https://www.tiktok.com/@novachiefofstaff

https://www.youtube.com/@novachiefofstaff

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Feeling overwhelmed trying to do it all? Wondering if it’s finally time to hire a right-hand leader to help scale your business? This episode will show you what it really takes to let go and grow.

On this episode of The Root of All Success, Jason Duncan welcomes Maggie Olson, founder of Nova Chief of Staff, to unpack the misunderstood and often underestimated role of a Chief of Staff. From leading internal transformation at T-Mobile to building the world’s first Chief of Staff certification program, Maggie shares her personal story and expert insight on how business leaders can stop spinning their wheels and start leading with purpose.

🔑 Takeaways from this episode:

• How to know when it’s time to hire a Chief of Staff
• The critical difference between an EA and a Chief of Staff
• What visionary CEOs get wrong when hiring
• The true cost (and ROI) of hiring a Chief of Staff
• What to expect from Nova’s training and placement programs
• How to stop “idea whiplash” and bring alignment to your team
• Why strong leadership isn’t about control—it’s about clarity

Whether you’re a startup founder, a growing CEO, or a solo entrepreneur who feels buried in execution, this conversation is packed with real-world advice to help you reclaim your time and refocus on what matters most.

Who is Maggie Olson?

Maggie Olson is the Founder of Nova Chief of Staff, the premier and first-of-its-kind destination for Chief of Staff education, certification, and development. She has 20 years of experience in retail, food and beverage, and technology sectors and has held leadership roles at Nordstrom and T-Mobile. At T-Mobile, Maggie's impressive work led her to become the first Chief of Staff to the President of the T-Mobile Business Group. In this role, she built the Chief of Staff model from the ground up, creating a highly efficient team and establishing an executive back-office structure, supporting the President, SVPs, and over 5,000 employees. She also built a Chief of Staff team, defining all roles, processes, and systems. Through Nova Chief of Staff, Maggie continues to shape the future of business leadership, providing the tools and resources necessary for Chiefs of Staff to excel in their roles and drive company success.

Maggie’s Website Link: https://www.novachiefofstaff.com/

Maggie’s Social Media Link:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/novachiefofstaff

https://www.instagram.com/novachiefofstaff/

https://www.facebook.com/NovaChiefofStaff/

https://www.tiktok.com/@novachiefofstaff

https://www.youtube.com/@novachiefofstaff

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In this solo episode, Jason Duncan shares the raw and honest story of how he built a business that operates independently of him—and what it really took to get there. 

From feeling trapped in a role he never wanted to becoming the owner of a self-sustaining business, Jason opens up about the mindset shift that changed everything. He talks about the pressure entrepreneurs feel to do it all, the toll it takes on their health and relationships, and the freedom that comes when you finally let go.

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck working in your business instead of on it, this episode is your wake-up call. Learn why Jason stopped being his business’s best employee and started being the visionary leader it actually needed.

Jason’s Website Link

Jason’s Social Media

Facebook

Instagram

Linkedin

Youtube

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Ever wonder how a small-town church camera operator went on to film presidential inaugurations, Academy Awards, and NASCAR races? Meet Mike Breece, a veteran in the broadcast and media industry, who built ProJib Inc., one of the top camera crane rental and production companies in the business.

In this in-person episode of The Root of All Success, host The Real Jason Duncan dives deep into Mike’s 40+ years of experience, from his first gig at Channel 4 Nashville to working on some of the biggest productions in the world.

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Mike transitioned from freelance videographer to business owner

✅ The biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make in the media industry

✅ The importance of balancing work and family while scaling a business

✅ Behind-the-scenes stories from live TV, sports, and Hollywood productions

If you’re an entrepreneur, filmmaker, or creative professional, this episode is packed with game-changing insights on building a long-term, successful career in media.

📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more exclusive interviews with industry leaders!

🚀 Watch now and learn what it takes to succeed in the fast-paced world of media and business!

Who is Mike Breece?

Mike Breece is a television production veteran and CEO of Pro Jib Inc., a top provider of high-end camera support equipment. With over 40 years in the industry, he started as a church camera operator in Centerville, TN, later working at Channel 4 News and TNN, covering NASCAR and the CMA Awards. In 1998, he founded Pro Jib Inc., which has contributed to major events like Presidential Inaugurations, The Academy Awards, and The Grammys. A three-time Emmy winner and Silver Circle Award honoree, Mike continues to push innovation in broadcast technology.

Mike Breece’s Website Link: www.projib.com

Mike Breece’s Social Media Link:

Instagram: @breecemike

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🔥 How to Build a Video Business That Runs Itself with The Real Jason Duncan | Grow Your Video Business Podcast 🎬

Struggling to grow your video business without being stuck in the daily grind? Discover how to build a thriving video company that doesn’t rely on you!

In this episode of Grow Your Video Business, host Ryan Koral sits down with The Real Jason Duncan to discuss the key to scaling a business that runs on systems—not on YOU. Jason shares his Exit Without Exiting strategy, explaining how entrepreneurs can shift from being owner-operators to owner-investors. Learn why delegation, automation, and asset-building are the secret weapons for long-term success.

📌 Topics Covered:

✅ The difference between owning a job vs. owning a business

✅ Why delegation is the first step to freedom

✅ How to implement systems that scale your business

✅ The XOS Method for exiting without selling

✅ Why focusing on assets over revenue changes the game

🎥 Perfect for: Filmmakers, videographers, and creative entrepreneurs who want to stop trading time for money and start building a business that thrives without them.

🔔 Hit play now and take the first step toward real business freedom!

👉 Watch now & take control of your business! 🚀

Who is Ryan Koral?

Ryan Koral is the founder of Tell Studios and host of the Grow Your Video Business podcast, where he helps videographers scale their businesses. A seasoned storyteller and educator, he also leads initiatives like the Smartphone Film Academy. With experience in film production and video marketing, Ryan is dedicated to empowering creatives to turn their passion into a thriving business.

Ryan Koral’s Website Link: https://www.studiosherpas.com/podcast

Ryan Koral’s Social Media Link:

• Official Website: ryankoral.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ryankoral
• Twitter: twitter.com/ryankoral
• Instagram: @ryankoral
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GrowYourVideoBusiness

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🎶 From Writing Iconic Hits to Leading in Business & Art 🎶

What does it take to create a song that transcends generations? In this episode of The Root of All Success, Stacy Widelitz—co-writer of She’s Like the Wind with Patrick Swayze—shares his incredible journey in music, film, and beyond. Hosted by The Real Jason Duncan, this conversation dives into:

🔥 The unexpected rise of Dirty Dancing and how a “flop” became a phenomenon

🔥 Collaborating with Patrick Swayze and the making of an unforgettable hit

🔥 Transitioning from composing to black-and-white photography—and winning awards!

🔥 Leadership lessons from the arts applied to civic roles and business success

Stacy’s story is proof that creativity isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and saying “yes” to the unknown. 🎤✨

🎧 Watch now and get inspired by a master of creative reinvention!

Who is Stacy Widelitz?

Stacy Widelitz is a composer and photographer best known for co-writing “She’s Like the Wind” with Patrick Swayze for Dirty Dancing. The song reached #3 on Billboard’s Top 40 and earned two BMI awards, along with a 4-million airplay award in 2009. His career includes scoring films, over 20 TV movies, writing for Pocahontas II, and earning an Emmy nomination and multiple Gold Addie awards.

In 2015, Widelitz expanded into black-and-white street photography during a trip to Tuscany, capturing emotional moments reminiscent of film noir. His photography has been exhibited in Nashville at The Arts Company, Prima Signa Gallery, and Nashville International Airport. He is represented by Chauvet Arts.

Widelitz has held leadership roles with Nashville Opera, Leadership Music, ALIAS Chamber Ensemble, and the Nashville Film Festival.

Stacy Widelitz’s Website Link: stacywidelitz.com

Stacy Widelitz’s Social Media Link:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/@stacywidelitz

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Struggling to stay productive? Working all day but feeling like you got nothing done? This episode is for YOU!

In this episode of The Root of All Success, The Real Jason Duncan sits down with Amber De La Garza, a sought-after productivity specialist, coach, and speaker, to uncover the real secrets to getting more done—without the stress.

Amber shares powerful insights on priority management, time blocking, and planning strategies that help entrepreneurs escape the trap of constantly working in their business instead of on it. Discover why time management is a myth, how to take control of your schedule, and why freedom of attention is the ultimate success factor.

💡 Key Takeaways:

✅ The #1 strategy to instantly boost productivity

✅ How planning your day the right way leads to massive efficiency

✅ Why “freedom of attention” is more important than “freedom of time”

✅ The mindset shift that changed Amber’s business forever

If you want to maximize your time, increase profits, and create a business that fuels your ideal lifestyle, don’t miss this episode!

🔔 Hit PLAY now and learn how to finally take control of your time!

Who is Amber De La Garza?

Amber De La Garza is The Productivity Specialist! Amber has more than a decade of experience helping small business owners maximize profits, reduce stress, and make time for what matters most by improving their time management and elevating their productivity! Amber is a sought-after coach, trainer, speaker, writer, host of the Small Business Straight Talk Podcast and creator of Leverage Lab®. Amber shares her message on her weekly podcast and as Straight Talks both virtually and in-person across the country for audiences that range from small business owners and associations to multinational corporations. 

Amber De La Garza’s Website Link: https://amberdelagarza.com/

Amber De La Garza’s Social Media Link:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theproductivityspecialist 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/amber_delagarza

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amberdelagarza/

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🔹 From IT Nerd to Leadership Coach: How Sean Barnes Transformed His Career & Mindset

In this episode of The Root of All Success, host The Real Jason Duncan sits down with Sean Barnes, an IT professional turned entrepreneur, speaker, and leadership coach. Sean’s journey from corporate America to business ownership wasn’t smooth sailing—he faced failures, financial setbacks, and the challenges of starting from scratch. But through relentless personal growth, leadership development, and operational excellence, he built a thriving business and a successful podcast, The Way of the Wolf.

🔥 Here’s what you’ll learn:

✅ Why transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship is harder than you think

✅ The power of adversity in shaping success and leadership

✅ How Sean helps tech executives become better communicators and leaders

✅ The biggest mistake new entrepreneurs make when building their teams

✅ Why sustainable success is all about strategy, mindset, and execution

📢 Don’t miss this deep dive into the real struggles and strategies behind success! Watch now and level up your leadership game. 💪

Who is Sean Barnes?

Sean is a seasoned cross-functional leader with over two decades of progressive

expertise in Leadership Development, Digital Strategy, Operational Excellence, Human Resources, ESG, and HSE. Driven by a passion for harmonizing leadership and operational excellence, he founded WSS Solutions and hosts “The Way of The Wolf” podcast. Through these platforms, Sean is dedicated to developing exceptional leaders and building high-performance teams that consistently surpass expectations. His mission is to empower organizations to achieve sustainable success by encouraging a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Sean Barnes’s Website Link: seanbarnes.com

Sean Barnes’s Social Media Link:

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

https://www.instagram.com/the_seanbarnes/

https://x.com/the_seanbarnes

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🚀 From Quadriplegic to Walking Again: The Power of the Day One Mindset

At just 16, Lord Milan Oiseau’s life changed forever when a tragic accident left him diagnosed as a C4 quadriplegic. Doctors said he would never walk again. But through an 18-year journey of relentless determination, faith, and mindset mastery, Milan defied the odds—eventually regaining his ability to walk, building two successful companies, authoring three books, and launching a thriving coaching business.

In this powerful episode, The Real Jason Duncan sits down with Lord Milan to uncover the secrets behind his Day One Mindset, a five-step framework that turns imagination into reality. Milan shares how he transformed hardship into strength, the role faith played in his recovery, and how entrepreneurs can apply his principles to overcome setbacks in business and life.

🔥 What You’ll Learn:

✔️ The mindset shift that helped Milan reclaim his body and future

✔️ The power of self-talk in achieving success

✔️ Why hardships are a precursor to glory

✔️ How his Day One Mindset helps high achievers break barriers

✔️ Why words shape reality more than we realize

👉 Don’t miss this life-changing conversation. Watch now and unlock the mindset that defies limits! #EntrepreneurMindset #SuccessTips #Resilience

Who is Lord Milan Oiseau?

At 16, Milan broke his neck and was diagnosed as a C4 quadriplegic, with

doctors predicting he would never regain feeling or movement. Defying the odds, Milan embarked on an 18-year journey of determination and faith, eventually regaining the ability to walk. During this time, he also earned a master’s degree, traveled the world, authored three books, launched a successful podcast, and built two companies. Milan attributes his achievements to the DAY1 MINDSET, a framework he developed with divine inspiration.

Milan’s story is not just about personal triumph; it’s about empowering others to become superheroes in their own lives. “Hardship is a precursor to glory,” Milan explains, encapsulating the essence of his superhero training program. By embracing this mindset, individuals can transcend their circumstances and unlock their true potential.

Lord Milan Oiseau’s Website Link: https://day1mindset.com

Lord Milan Oiseau’s Social Media Link:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@iamlordmilan

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