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48 Days to the Work You Love Podcast by Dan Miller

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48 Days 11/18/09 - Stuck or Lazy?

Author: Dan Miller
Thu, Nov 19, 2009

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. In the podcast I suggest a great book you can get for Free if you sign up as a new member. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

Stuck or Lazy?

1. My question is what are your thoughts concerning bi-vocational ministers with more than one stream of income? By becoming bi-vocational is it too much of a risk to have too many irons in the fire? What model do you think works?

2. I've been trying to encourage my 38 yr old brother to take action and find work he is passionate about, he has been laid off for 9 months. My brother says to me, "I don't get opportunities". I think it is because he has become lazy and lives at home with our parents. How do I get through to him to make him realize there is more out there?
From Dan -- (For starters, please have him read II Thessalonians 3:10)

3. Dan, can you sell prints of patent documents? Is that pubic domain?
For example, I would like to print out original patent for an old toy and frame it or put it in a nice shadow box with an actual collectible toy to match.

4. How do I best guide my son, a high school junior and college bound, with career direction? I'm concerned that he may become bored with his choice (pilot) as I did.

5. Because of reading your books and newsletters, and listening to your podcasts I have finished a project that I have been working on for 3 years. I have written a children's book called I Believe. It is a Christmas story about the true meaning of Christmas, giving. I just wanted to say thanks. Your encouragement has helped push me along to getting this done. Do you have any suggestions for marketing a self published book? What are some avenues that I could pursue?

6. Do you believe that only a select number of people truly discover their talents and therefore their calling? I was laid off from my job in April and have given up looking for work. I see artists and "successful people" doing what they love and have come to believe that God will never show or reveal to me what I love to do and that it is reserved for a few.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. In the podcast I suggest a great book you can get for Free if you sign up as a new member. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

1. I would like to start a side business offering seminars and training to businesses and individuals. Many of the concepts I am qualified to teach have come from my recent readings. I am concerned about my rights to teach material developed by others. What legal and ethical issues should I consider when developing such a business?

2. I'm 58 & have served as a minister over a period of 40 years. It is my passion & I truly love & enjoy serving in ministry. After 4 years w/ a local church, I was fired on 12/30/08. I have applied to teach at Christian schools & junior college but no luck. I applied yesterday to be a hospital chaplain -- maybe I'll hear from them. With my CDL, I could be a chauffer for a limo or bus. Do you have any ideas, suggestions or options?

3. If there is something in the public domain that someone has taken and redone. Is the original still public domain? Can someone else take that and change it and do their own thing?

4. I am a retired elementary teacher. I need extra income, but am limited on money and limited physically. Any suggestions as to what job I could do to make more than $8 an hour and to withstand my health issues would be greatly appreciated. I have always wanted my own business, but do not know what that could be. Where do I start?

5. I really would like to get your book, 48 Days to the Work You Love, but can't afford it right now, do you know if its available in local library? I’m a 53 year old single mom, still trying to find out what i want to be when i grow up. Working now, but not fulfilled.

6. I have read "48 Days to the Work You Love" and "No More Mondays" I totally understand the concept of doing what you love and what God gifted you to do, however, I have thought and prayed for the past several months and I honestly don't know what my passion is and what gifts and talents God has given me.

1. I have read many self-help books only to see friends and family members who don't read, watch many hours of TV, and have foul mouths make out better than me! I'm usually sluggish and don't like filling out job apps (I’d rather be on Facebook.) I can't seem to muster up the confidence to breakthrough. I'm so not enjoying life! I want to know what am I'm doing wrong.

2. How much cash or capital do you think needs to be set aside to start your own coaching business?

3. Dan, you coach many pastors looking for a career change. Do you ever do the opposite, coach people into the paid pastor role? I already have a seminary degree; am 52 years old and am constantly told I have a great speaking gift when I teach.

4. To what degree is it necessary that God's plan for your life be considered - can success be achieved without his blessing

5. As artists, how do we (as husband and wife) gain the support of family members who feel we are just "playing" and wonder when we will get a "real" job?

6. Hello Dan, If someone was working full-time at their passion, how much time does someone give it a chance to be profitable?

7. Do you think it's a good idea to leave a low paying, dead end job to go to school full time and work part time to get a degree so that I can make more money, yes, I have a mortgage and car note and household bills...thank you

1. I am 51 years old. Have raised my two children as a single parent. For the first time, I have asked myself, who is "Susan". I don't know. I have a few college credits, but I don't know what my purpose is. At this time in my life, I don't want to do the wrong thing. What advice could you give me?

2. I love to share my faith with others and I seem to have many natural talents, skills and abilities suited for a minister. Many people gave even suggested I enter the Ministry. However, I believe that no matter how suited someone may be for ministry they must be called of God in order to be a Minister. Talent is nothing to God. He rather wants a fully surrendered and obedient individual. I suppose my question is how do I know whether I'm called to be a minister or just an entrepreneur with an idea I'm passionate about?

3. My pursuit of solo-preneurship has left a gaping hole in my relationship with my husband. He has become very resentful of the time I spend trying to get my business off the ground. Between working part-time, taking care of our children, taking care of the household and working on my business there are barely enough hours in the day for me to eat, exercise and sleep. Is there any way that I can keep a finger in the pot just to continue with my passion even in the smallest way?

4. I would like to start a Quickbooks Accounting and tax business. I am taking both QuickBooks and Tax classes right now. I am also pursing the CPA license. I am married with 4 children, 6 and under. I have a full time job, and church responsibilities. What should be my expectations for having other commitments and starting a small business?

5. I discovered a gold mine, a lump coal that I feel can be a diamond. I have dabbled in all sort of ventures but never conquered a public domain eBook. My question is this, I just don't want to sell the book, I want to utilize its content to continue to make residual income. I am just struggling on how to make and market this Material. It is an old book that talks about how to increase your wealth using certain life principles.

6. I am a long time Pastor and the tough economy has had a big effect on our church...pay cuts, lost jobs, and fear of the future have caused offerings to drop 20%. As a result, our staff took a 10 % pay cut in April and 50% in September. But the cool thing was that it also gave me time to find some meaningful part time gigs that are making up the difference. Your podcast and book (No More Mondays) were a big part of the process. So now I have two part time gigs that I’m very good at, pay me way more on an hourly basis then I have ever made in my life, and are FUN! I have made up the pay cut and, believe it or not, if it meant stopping these part time gigs, I don’t think I would take my full salary back if they offered it to me.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. In the podcast I suggest a great book you can get for Free if you sign up as a new member. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

I’m an artist and don’t want to “grow up�

1. I could really use some career/business/vocational advice. I will turn 47 in January, but sometimes feel as if I haven't grown up yet. I am an artist. Sometimes I feel as if I'm still waiting to grow up, looking to see my childhood dreams realized.

2. Please explain how do you hear God and His guidance? I have spent time in His Word & I still do not hear anything or sense that small quiet voice in my spirit. I would welcome any advice you have.

3. I already have Masters Degree- from Vanderbilt in Human Development and have applied and been accepted into a masters in counseling program- but in the back of my mind I have wondered what is the real difference financially to my family - the program takes about 2.5 years as well as the cost of the program and the cost associated with my working part time while in school. What are your thoughts on this??? I will be 50 in February.

4. Would you have any career or job search advice for widows/widowers who are looking for work under the most stressful of circumstances?

5. I am 63 years old, I worked for a magazine distributor for 30 years as a route man after they went out of business I tried to sell cars for six years but was not successful. I guess it's too late for me to find a job I like and make more than $8.00 an hour? If you have any suggestions I would be happy to hear them.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. In the podcast I suggest a great book you can get for Free if you sign up as a new member. Logon to www.audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

In answering the first question I borrowed from Darryl Worley’s new country song – Sounds Like Life to me.

1. I followed my passion and dreams and started an IT business in April. Since then life has happened in the form of our son who was born prematurely and required 2 months in a hospital. As a result of the stress and the business not going well, I have become lost. I feel like I have no passion for much of anything anymore, what can I do to become creative and passionate again?

2. I have a passion for helping people with their marriages and family relationships. I would like to focus on premarital counseling, marriage enrichment and teaching parenting techniques. For the past year I have been torn between pursuing a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy, which I began this past spring, and venturing into marriage & family coaching. Is the financial and opportunity cost of a Masters degree worth continuing or should I start moving into coaching?

I love this next question – and it touches on a gold mine available to most any of us.

3. Being an avid reader, I came across an old book in my collection that was given to me by my mother on my wedding day. The copyright in the book is 1902 and the content of the book could very well be valuable today as when it was first written. I checked online and the company that published the book is apparently no longer. I hear you talk from time to time about books in the public domain and wonder if this falls under that umbrella. If so, how do I go about putting together an e-book or paperback to sell using this book's information?

4. I’d like to subscribe to your podcasts, but prefer not to have to sit listening to my computer. Perhaps an MP3 player? Well, I find that I miss too much of what’s going on around me if I’ve got ear buds stuck in my ears. Would it be possible to subscribe to a transcript of the podcast, so that I could read it at my leisure?

5. What are five tips on how to have the courage to start my own business?

I begin by addressing a reader who is upset that we are promoting a cruise when times are so tough. So – it appears misery really does love company?

1. You have got to be kidding me. Please tell me you are kidding so that I can cling to my perception of the credibility in your organization. I can literally, barely afford basic staples like bread and you are pitching a cruise to me? (I know I'm not the only one, either.)

2. I dislike where I work so much that I find it difficult to get to work on time and I only live 2 miles from my office. It is affecting me personally and affecting my marriage. I have decided to quit but want to know how this will affect my ability to find a new job and how to fill out the ‘reason for leaving’ part of an application. What do you say in an interview?

3. Over the last year I've come up with the idea of creating a non-profit sustainable Christian community for people at all stages of life. My question is, how do you go about getting funding to launch non-profit ventures? I can't take this to potential investors the way that I could with a big money-making idea.

4. My husband is a real estate manager in a metropolitan area. We are mountain folk- going on 10 yrs. here and desperately want to escape. He teaches social media classes on his own, manages agents, & conducts training at the company he works for. How can he structure a fulltime career from teaching classes or speaking? Our goal is to structure his business so we can move wherever we want to raise our children.

5. Recently I’ve felt compelled to write a book. I’ve always wanted to but never really decided to sit down and do it until now. My question is how should I go about trying to get it published? When I do internet searches I find a bunch of publishing houses asking me to pay them to publish the book. This just doesn’t seem right to me. Any suggestions on ways to go about it or places to go for information.

6. I have been reviewing forms of internet business like affiliate marketing or selling my own e-products. Many of the "systems" being sold seem to be an internet version of "buy my system to make money stuffing envelopes by selling systems stuffing envelopes". What are your thoughts on internet business and the "systems" that are being hocked?

I begin by encouraging you to remove the “barnacles� from all areas of your life. This is the perfect time of year to create a clean start for 2010.

The job I have drives me crazy

1. I've been learning and being challenged so much about the possibilities of entrepreneurship and putting feet on my ideas...but at what point do I decide I'm better off operating in my original strengths -- which are NOT as a skilled businessman -- and go out and look for a business partner who compliments my strengths and can help implement my ideas?

2. I've created MommyBrainOnline.com to encourage moms to pursue their passions while they raise their children. I have a podcast, newsletter called "The Boost" and a website. I'm building listenership and email list, but I'm struggling with the third leg of the stool monetizing. Is sponsorship alone a realistic business model?

3. How do you get over the fear of the unknown and take that leap of faith? As I have been reading your newsletters and books, there are so many aspects of my life that I NEED to get back in shape. I just don't know how to start.

4. I have a B.S. in business, 5 years military service and 11 years work experience in a variety of jobs, yet, the jobs I am qualified to do I don't want, the jobs I want I don't have enough experience for, and the job I have drives me crazy.

5. My family has a wonderful recipe for chili. There is a great story behind the chili and anyone who tastes it really loves it. I think his chili spices have a great potential and would like to help my dad get his chili spices in stores nationwide. He also has a wonderful salsa recipe that we might include. I'd love to make this a family business that can be carried on for generations.

1. We are awaiting a court date to finalize our bankruptcy where we will lose everything but our vehicles and kids. At 41, my husband and three teenage children are starting over. It's the scariest time of my life ... and there is very little light at the end of the tunnel ... and I'm at the point where I feel like I have no solutions.

2. I would like to know some specific steps to take to make a smooth transition from a full time position to freelance or contract work with my current employer. It seems that resigning would automatically put me in a tough or even negative position to be able to continue to work with the same company.

3. I would like to start a Christian greeting card business. I love to draw and have drawn all my life, including illustration for children's books --- and I have a unique idea to subject my cards. What are the steps to getting started?

4. I have been trying to buy an existing business for about 3 months now. The owner is financing half and I need to come up with the other half. I have excellent credit, some bucks in a money market, but let me tell you, can’t get anyone to give you that first leg up, doesn’t matter how many business plans you write, unless you’re already established, they pretty much tell you to go take a hike.

5. I'm a 62-year-old college professor and utterly miserable in my job. I wish I could say this is a new development, but I've never really felt fulfilled in my work. I am heavily in debt, can't make enough to live on in a job I hate, and see no hope of ever retiring. I feel trapped and hopeless. What can I do?

6. What should one do to prepare for the upcoming year? I heard you mention that you evaluate all areas of your business and make changes annually. What do you do for the other areas of your life?

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. In the podcast I suggest a great book you can get for Free if you sign up as a new member. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

I feel like a spittoon….

1. I am considering venturing of into my own business, but want to safeguard my finances in the beginning stages. How Much money should I have saved for an emergency fund for my family, and how much money should I have available to dedicate to the business.

2. Dan, I LOVE your show, and, thanks to you, I am doing insurance sales to seniors now, which I COMPLETELY LOVE!! When I sit down with a prospect, I am in my zone, and I love selling face to face. A BIG part of where I should be getting leads is from cold calling, but I STINK at cold calling. Other than "just do it", what advice can you give me to get over my reluctance to cold call?

3. I feel like a spittoon, envying the vases. “God is the potter, and you are the clay, be happy with how He made you.� What do you have to say to women who have been thwarted by their complacent husbands? At 48 years old, I’ve lost my faith, my hope, and frankly, don’t care if I lose my marriage.

4. I am sure you have read my story before. 40 years old I have 7 children and I have never made more than 27K my entire life. I would LOVE to be able to combine what you do with what Dave Ramsey does for his listeners and readers.

I am not sure where to get started or how to begin or how to pay the bills and such.

5. A relative of mine has been talking for years about a "family recipe" that is a miraculous cure for poison oak/ivy that greatly speeds up the healing process. I'm trying to assist him into locating info to help him along the way. In order to actually produce/market this type of product - what do you suggest as first steps? Any recommended reading specific to patents such as this?

6. How do I go about finding corporate sponsorship to fund some of the projects I'd like to do? They include collections of stories of recent immigrants to the US; interviews with non-Americans about their view of and experiences in the US; and video series on different cultures, whether regional US cultures or overseas cultures.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. In the podcast I suggest a great book you can get for Free if you sign up as a new member. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

I start off this podcast by playing a jingle – Ole Dan Miller – submitted by reader Kenny Day. The question is: Can he make money doing this for other people?

1. I love writing, and my blog, newspaper articles, book reviews and textbook writing is fulfilling--one problem--it does not generate an income! I've been stumped how to turn this into a money-making opportunity.

2. I’ve recently lost a pet and noticed that there are not many books out there for Christians coping with this kind of grief. My idea is to write about my cat and all that God taught me about His love through her.

3. My mother wrote a column in a local weekly newspaper for several years about life experiences and the early history of our town. Years ago I compiled most of the numerous articles then printed them as a self published books and she sold them at her store. My question is who legally owns the copyrights to these articles and books since it was not mentioned in her will?

4. My question is would it be feasible to start a site where people can log on and review books and maybe have some type of rating as to the amount of offensive content in each book. Would this site be legal and if so how would I go about launching it?

5. I just got back from 5 days in the high Nevada desert and the Burning Man festival. I don't know what you know about it, or what you have heard. But for me it is a very powerful spiritual retreat. What are your thoughts on retreats? What elements do you think are necessary for them to be "successful"?

1. I am having a difficult time finding the decision makers who actually have the funds to give to our 5013c. Do you have any advice on where to find prospects? I am finding the method is different for fundraising vs a direct sale and I am a little lost at the moment.

2. I am currently compiling a reading list for my children and would like your advice. My goal is to compile a list of books that I believe are essential for my kid’s to read before leaving home to college. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

3. We have been working for about a year on the side doing web design, data entry, and marketing for a Real Estate friend and she pays us a percentage of her sales......Dan, could this be a start of a real business for my wife and I doing the same work for other Real Estate agents?.

4. I have thought about interviewing some big respected/admired names (leaders) in my community/country, putting the interviews on CD and selling them. Would I need to pay some money to the interviewees if I get to sell these at a decent price?

5. i'm 54 yrs. old living in New York City. I got divorced 4 yrs. ago, i've alway's been self-employed in sales, i'm out of work now, i feel stuck in my situation, i really don't know what my calling is, it seem's i've never been able to find it. I'm a want to be actor, but never really pursuit it, my self-esteem very low it have alway's been, i come from a very disfuntional family. I read both your book's there great. It's how to apply them in a tangiable way, that i'm having problem's with. Anyway, if you could give me some tip's i would greatly appreciate it. Thank You, so much and, please excuse me, i didn't mean it to be a therapy session.

6. Right now at 63 I am sooo sick of the place I am. I was raised on a farm in Tennessee, served in the 82nd Airborne, worked in a number of factories, owned and operated a boarding kennel, studied commercial art in school, am presently an amateur photographer. I loved all of the things I have done in life except what I do now and I hate it. I read your excerpt from No More Mondays in Charles Stanley's In Touch magazine. I have read it and read it and read it. That little article sooooo inspires me.

How do I do this??????????????

“Life or death� of my marriage

1. I’ve identified my number problem. I don't really know myself. Honestly everything has been on hold for years after a divorce and the subsequent 20 years of managing the 5 kids by myself. I consider myself lucky but have lost my sense of what would be fulfilling career wise.

2. I lost my job over a month ago in a high profile corporate role. Since leaving the company I have been approached by many of my external business associates asking that I do consulting work on their behalf. The question is.... I am scared to go out on my own and make a living on consulting.

3. One of the things that comes through in your written and podcast materials is you are very planful in terms of how you spend your time. I suspect that applies to both work and personal time. Can you please talk about the importance of being both purposeful with our time and mindful of the stimuli to which we are exposed.

4. My wife and I started a music academy 6 years ago teaching private music lessons in student's homes. I'm now looking for other ways to leverage my expertise and experience as a guitar teacher. As I research the market, I confess I get a little intimidated by the large amount of guitar instructional material online. How will my stuff stick out? Is there such a thing as a saturated market or is it really about positioning myself in a unique way?

5. I have always been in sales and have always done ok but not great. I recently took Myers Briggs and sales was not listed in the "best jobs" for your personality type. I don't really like sales because I find it repetitive and I like variety. I want to make a change but fear keeps me stuck doing something I don't really like.

6. I have an issue that is personal but related to work that I am dealing with and is becoming the "life or death" of my marriage. My husband is currently not working (and we are living with his parents) b/c he is pursuing his "passion" for a network marketing company. Network marketing is however not what I signed up for. I am tired of chasing rainbows with him and want him to buckle down so I can have a house and hopes of having children. We are directionless and I'm becoming hopeless.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. Get a FREE Audiobook download of your choice when you sign up today. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

I get bored easily…..what should I do?

1. I’ve been an Analyst in the financial field for nearly 8 years, and honestly hate working for someone else. I’m making excellent money, and I’m good at what I do, but I feel like I’ve become trapped in the “comfort zone�… It seems that every new business idea I come up with, I find a way to shoot it down within minutes.

2. I have been a licensed Physical Therapist Assistant for the past two years. I had no idea how strenuous this line of health services work was and is on my body physically. I would like to find another line of work in the health services field.

3. I get bored easily. How do you deal with the excitement of starting something but then have that feeling wane over time?

4. I hope to market myself as a Social Media Consultants for Churches with members of 1000 to 5000. After almost 30 days of using Facebook and Twitter I have yet to sell a network. I have gotten 183 unique visitors to the site. With basically no budget how to you think I should proceed?

5. I have been a pastor for 22 years. I was called to preach on Sept.19th, 1976 but have never truly felt called to be a pastor. Of the 22 years I have been a pastor I have I have really only enjoyed it about 5 to 7 years. My temperament and personality seem to keep me in turmoil with my flock on a regular basis. At 56 I am close to burn out, exhausted and need a change.

6. Two friends and I have written samples of a series of joke books which are in the vein of Foxworthy's Redneck books. We've been turned down by several publishers but still have one more in mind. If they don't pick it up what would you recommend be our next step?

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. Get a FREE Audiobook download of your choice when you sign up today. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details. 15 minutes into the podcast I have a personal recommendation for the book to download.

1. My cynicism is getting the best of me. I’m interested, in fact, desperately interested in finding my passion, my talent, and a purpose for my life. Is there a short cut to making the transition from employee to self employed? Inside I really think I’m just destined to eek out a living paycheck to paycheck. I can’t seem to identify anything that might be a talent or passion that could pay the bills.

2. Could I write an ebook for new artists and show them how to set up an inexpensive art show to sell their work? I have done this for 5 years in a row but I can only produce enough quality work to do one show a year. I thought that if I could market my ebook and teach other new artists how to accomplish this, I could use that as a new stream of income. What do you think?????

3. How can I go about turning my podcast into a full time job? Podcasting is my passion and it has been for over 3 years; it's one of the things that adds a "balance" to being in a "wrong fit" j.o.b. and it's something I love.

4. I struggle with knowing how much I should take as a salary for myself from my business. Since I own the company, obviously I can take from the proceeds, but what would you recommend I base my salary on as the company grows more and more and there is more and more profit.

5. I am a school counselor and have written several stories that incorporate good character building examples through imaginary stories and characters. I would like to publish the stories but have been unable to find a publisher who is interested in them. I would be willing to publish them myself but have been unable to find someone to illustrate the stories. Recently, I decided to let children in the classroom add pictures after reading the story to them. I think this turned out very well but I am unsure if I could self publish the books if they were illustrated by children.

There’s no door out of this white room

1. I am 33 years old, married with a family of five and live in SLC, Utah. Over the years I have struggled with the dilemma of feeling like I am not able to pursue earning a true living doing what I love which is acting and entertainment.

2. I am unable to figure out the path for get from Point A to Point B, to find the door in my white room, to transition from the idea to a money making enterprise.

3. I would like to know what to do when you are working so hard and everything seems to continue to fail. Do you change plans or what?

4. I am 35 years old and have worked as a Registered Nurse for 10 years. I am extremely bored but it "pays the bills." I can get a raise by becoming a certified emergency nurse. Is it a wise use of time and resources to pursue education to increase my effectiveness and income in a position that I currently hate?

5. I am the owner of a small business specializing in the cleaning and sealing of decks, fences, and wood siding. However, the nature of the business cases loss of income for about 3 1/2 to 4 months out of the year. We always struggle keeping the lights on and food on the table for our teenage boys.

6. I’m deeply in debt as a result of my current business but want to start over in another career. I’ll be selling my house soon in order to reduce my debt by about 50% but I don’t know of a lucrative way to harness my talents in a way that allows me to live while paying off debt.

Are you suffering from “career constipation?�

- How do I start a blog?

- I continue to stagnate and suffer from career constipation.

- I am 44 years old and am bored to death and feel I have no calling or purpose.

- We think our motorcycle vest product name is catchy, what you do think?

- Can I take what I have learned in hands-on bra fitting and maybe make some extra money?

- Do you not think it ironic that you receive so many questions from folk that want to know how to be a life coach to others when they have not figured out how to do it themselves?

- Just like everybody else, I work as a physician and make money in the linear fashion.

I’m Missing Something

1. I am missing that "something" inside that says "yes, this is what I want". How do I find this "something" ?

2. I just can't seem to figure out what my calling is. What was I put on this planet to do? What in the world am I here for?

3. What credentials do you think would be required for a Management Coach? I have a BS in Civil Engineering, but that does not reflect management capabilities.

4. How do I handle possible copyright issues by using the quotes from famous people that I used to generate an idea or point-of-interest in a blog post or book I may write?

5. I am currently stuck in a career that is dragging me down. I dread each morning going to work, but I also have feelings of guilt because I know there are thousands of people without jobs. I have been dealing with this day after day for at least a couple of years now, and something needs to change.

6. I was just wondering what should be my first approach to opening a Christian cafe/ social club for my community. No, I have never run a business before but grew up with a mother who owned her own store/restaurant and rented apartments.

7. I am looking at purchasing an existing landscaping company with good sales and margins. I am a Mechanical Engineer by degree, but I love being outside and talking to people (atypical engineer). While I think this is a good opportunity, I am concerned by whether I have narrowed my view of potential businesses too much.

Welcome to 48 Days radio where each week I look through the submitted questions and then blast through as many as possible right here to give you the unique tools for your own success. Success principles are very transferable – what makes a real estate professional, or a small business owner, or an IT employee or a stay at home Mom successful can also work for you. Career or work skills are not that confined to only work or career – the same principles, concepts and skills that make you successful in those “careers� will make you successful in the broader scope of your life. The success you plan for in your work will without question spill over into better finances, health and relationships.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. Get a FREE Audiobook download of your choice when you sign up today. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

1. I have come to the realization that my current job is neither within my calling or even tolerable for to much longer. I have a desire and passion for physical fitness and encouraging others when they think a goal/quest is out of reach. Would I need a certification to do what I’ve described?

2. Five months ago I got laid off from working in IT. I’ve been unsuccessful finding work. My wife and I are thinking about creating an adult content site to generate income. We would either make videos of ourselves or just feature videos. We know this is a booming industry. Do you see anything morally wrong with starting this business?

3. I've read your "48 Days To The Work You Love" book and now I'm reading "No More Mondays". They have inspired me to pursue an invention of mine but I don't know where to start. I have a motorcycle and one day I came up with this idea for a black motorcycle vest with lights on the back, hook up the lights to the brake and turning lights from the bike so whenever you apply them the lights on the back of the vest come on? What would you suggest I should you?

4. Please tell me more about how to write a business plan. Is there a guide or a workbook you would recommend? I have been self employed for 20+ years and have never done one.

5. I had my own homebuilding company and 2 years ago my business came to a crashing halt with the economy down turn. I loved building homes and that was my passion. I started an insurance agency the first of the year and have been doing OK but not earning what I need to keep the bills paid. What’s a 61 year old person to do?? I was doing what I loved to do when I was building homes. Now, I feel as though I have lost my identity and have a hopeless feeling at times.

6. I am 34 and only have a high-school diploma. I did not do very well when I was in school; however I am now very eager to learn! How do you decide on further schooling or another job or your own business? I have been in a battle with myself over this for years! You are right -- the indecision has led me to do nothing, and that's not what I want. I want to thank you for all that you do!

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. Get a FREE Audiobook download of your choice when you sign up today. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

1. For someone with limited finances, how do you go about finding a mentor to help you with a business?

2. I've always been a top rated "employee" ... I always deliver what's needed and more. My skills are well recognized. Many people have told me I should start my own business. But I suck at self-marketing. How can I be successful as an entrepreneur?

3. In the past 9 years I have been laid off three different times. Currently I am having a very difficult time finding a new job. I cannot seem to hold a job for any respectable amount of time. I have never been fired from my past jobs, but I seem to get "laid-off" because of various reasons. I feel really lost.

4. I'm interested in learning what it takes to become a Life Coach. Can you point me in a direction to find information? Does it take years of training? I have no ideas where to start and you seem to be one of the best.

5. Hi Dan, I have just completed writing a book about my experience advocating for my son who was diagnosed with dyslexia many years ago. Can you tell me what to do with it now?

6. My real passion is to start a work at home business (most that I have found are scams that want your Money) where I can be flexible with schedule to continue my work with church and community. Question is how do I find that good work at home business or business that I love to get me started.

Don’t hurt my feelings

1. I begin by commenting on the new Florida school "no zero policy." They have decided that it seems like punishment to give a zero to a child even if that child never showed up for class. I think it prepares students to expect paychecks for not showing up as well. Brilliant training for real life!

2. I am 50 and recently lost my husband to cancer. Before we had our children, I practiced law, but put that aside to stay home and homeschool them. Now I must ponder how to re-enter the working world (I don't really want to, I have to) and don't know where to start.

3. About 5years ago I was let go from a job I loved, selling bike tours. I have reapplied more than once since, but they don't seem to want me back. Yesterday I found a job posting for a similar job with that Company and want the position--advice?

4. How do you manage depression/lack of motivation when trying to get a small business started? Exactly one year after being laid off from a company I'd worked at since the age of 18, I'm still bummed out about the unfairness of it all. Politics, nepotism, and dirty pool were par for the course at my company, but I still miss it (and my great salary)! How do I get over this & get on with my new life?

5. After being in a souless job of being a Flight Attendant for 25 years, my fear is that job seems to erase the fact that I have a masters degree in Science Education and taught in Science Museums and College level Biology. How do I go about convincing anyone that I am capable of more than serving cokes and peanuts? How do I begin to look when I feel no calling?

6. I have sometimes heard that your hobby is best left your hobby; that making it your business can ruin the enjoyment of it. When considering a business is it better to start with something you love to do or look for a good business opportunity and develop that?

“Nervously Employed�

I never get tired of reading through the real-life questions that come in each day. The poignant descriptions are far beyond anything I could dream up. Here are just a few that I discussed in this week’s 48 Days Podcast:

1. From a 31-year-old call centre agent - "I feel like I am running late for a party that never happened."

2. I am a 32 year-old "nervously-employed" salesperson in a highly unstable industry!

3. I am not young and would like to get started in the shortest possible time.

4. I am motivated to find a path in my life that will be good for my soul, as well as provide the material requirements of my family.

5. I spent the last 5 years in the School of Hard Knocks getting a degree in life experience.

I’m 60 and still in the wilderness

1. I'm a 61-year old nurse and don't want to work forever. I have several good product ideas related to food & gum flavors that I've seen others make a reality. I've contacted big companies like Wrigley gum but they only accept in-house ideas. How can I market ideas for products I don't know how to make?

2. I'm writing to you sort of out of desperation...currently, I work full time at home for XYZ. I hate it. That said, I need something fast to help our family finances. I am a homeschooling mom, a writer (working part time for local paper) and a part time seminary student. That alone feels like so much. Will you pray for me and offer any ideas? I am on the verge of tears all the time and my three sons are begging me to quit XYZ.

3. I want to start a virtual business where I handle accounting and taxes for business. The one problem that comes to mind when thinking about this great idea is confidentiality. I will be asking them for very confidential information (SS#, bank statements, client lists). How can I assure them that their confidentiality is important and they can trust me?

4. I'm 43 years old and have been practicing chiropractic for about 21 years. I went to chiropractic college due to the powerful influence of my father who was a chiropractor. Though I believe in the mission of chiropractic and the "lifestyle" it can potentially create, I've not found success in it. In fact, I've found only frustration. I'm also struggling terribly on a personal basis as I'm dealing with a psychological condition that really stems from having a weak "sense of self". I'm really feeling squeezed in every area of my life and really need some godly counsel.

5. I spend too much time watching the tube. I am on a VA disability pension, and have been homeless for several years. I truly do not know what my true calling is, I am 60 years old, female, have been around the mtn. and in the wilderness long enough, and want to come out of the cold, sort of to speak, but don't know where to go or to turn. I am very frustrated with myself, and so am writing for your possible assistance, if this e-mail even gets to you.

1. I enjoy listening to your podcasts and have purchased 48 Days and No More Mondays. I have also enjoyed many of the books on your reading list. I did not see any books on time management. Do you have a book recommendation on how to manage one’s time?

2. I am an offshore Engineer. I make 130K with 100% matching 401K and 750.00 vehicle allowance and am in the top 10% of my company. BUT I am tired of working offshore (14 years)and constantly uprooting from my family church and community. What is your advice about exploring a Chick-Fil-A franchise? I'm 37 with a stay at home wife and two small babies.

3. I have recently found an opportunity to buy out a photography business that has been growing the last 10 years and brings the current owner a six-figure income. Purchasing this company would require a loan of nearly $200,000 but the six-figure income would suggest I could pay it off in 3-4 years. Is it right for me to take out a loan to grow my already existing photography business?

4. I've been an owner operator in the building and remodeling business now for over ten years. I have been given many opportunities for very lucrative large scale jobs but always seem to come out in the red. As of right now I am over $250,000 In debt due to poor estimates and bad business practices. Should I just quit and go to work for another builder, which I hate the thought of, or try something new? I feel I'm running out of time. It is my passion and I'm very good at it. So how is it I've managed to burn so many bridges?

5. I've really enjoyed your latest book, "No More Mondays." I live in Nashville, TN and I was curious as to what one-on-one counseling you still provide at your local offices? After reading your book I almost have more questions than answers concerning what would be an appropriate avenue for me to pursue in a future career.

6. I would like to translate and do audio recording of books from authors like you, Dave Ramsey, Zig Ziglar and others and sell them. I plan to start by picking up something from the public domain as an experiment before getting into the technical part of dealing with publishers.

4 Questions.

1- What do you think about this idea? (I believe in this)

2- What kind of sound recording equipment should I be looking for?

3- If I hire someone else to read and record for me how should I pay?

4- When ready for copyright material where do I start?

Only 6 more years of misery

1. I work at a job that is a dead end job; I will be doing the same job in 20 years as I do today. I do not like the job but it is stable and pays a living wage. The new job pays significantly less than I am making now. I could pass on this job and stick it out for a year and hope the labor market improves or take this job and struggle with the loss of pay. Any advice you can give would be appreciated.

2. I am self employed and have been for years. I am 33 years old and I started a cabinet shop 13 years ago. I was headed to college to become an architect but my father was killed in a accident. So I quit and stayed at home to help out. I decided to start my own business and that was to build furniture but that turned into cabinets which was fine. I have a true passion for this work. I do not want to do anything else but the economy is making it impossible.

3. I love your show. I’ve discovered that I love to read books. Is there a way to make a profit by reading books and writing reviews? Do you know of any solid resources, books, websites, etc on this topic?

4. Can anyone set up a store like this (Dan’s Reading recommendations -- http://astore.amazon.com/48days0b-20) and sell other people's products for a profit share or percentage of the take for the referral?

5. I have 30 years of service; however, because I started at such a young age I’ll need to serve another 6 years to draw full retirement benefits. The management for whom I work are unethical, unprofessional, vengeful spiteful beings. I fear I’ll not be able to endure the stress and aggravation much longer. I have 10 to 20 ideas a month with commitment to none and no knowledge of how to bring any of them to fruition. Do you think it would be unreasonable to take the leap of faith? Perhaps the only thing more pathetic than the situation as it stands would be to work unhappily for another 6 years simply to receive a retirement check. Help!

6. I have been in the security/personal protection industry for more than 15 years. I have been significantly impacted by the recent rash of violent acts being perpetrated in places of worship, and have felt the strong desire to establish a security consulting firm (I have named it already: Safe Sanctuaries) for houses of worship. Do you feel this is a viable business concept where an income could actually be realized?

Do I have to “fail� to be successful?

1. I am a teacher and have a good salary and benefits, but I honestly am questioning whether what I am doing is what God wants me to do. I have read No More Mondays and 48 Days To the Job You Love, and I am really wondering what all the hype is really about. Are these goals of finding yourself based in reality, meant for only a few, our just a gimmick? I do not want to doubt what you are saying, but I really have difficulty thinking that this program is based in the reality of today's economic situation.

2. I am 39 years old with a Psychology degree I have never used. When I graduated, I realized that while getting an education was a good think, I never knew what I wanted to do with my life. I have now begun job searching once again but find myself in the same position I was in when I graduated.

3. I have been working at a job for about 2 years, and I’m completely miserable. The pay is decent and also the benefits/yearly bonus. I’m scared to leave the "security" of my regular "job"

4. I have studied many entrepreneurs and successful people and most of them have gone through some sort of life trial which I correlate to becoming successful. I am concerned that I am not going to do well because I have not gone through that learning experience (yet). Your thoughts please.

5. I worked as a Registered Nurse from 1969 – 1993 and then I became disabled. Now I am well and have been having a hard time getting a job I like in nursing. I took a refresher course, but they all want recent experience. I am working 11 PM to 7 AM in a job I don’t like and I’m afraid the hours are bad for my health. I am considering a different type of work so that I can get on days. Do you have any suggestions?

6. I currently work as a chiropractor. Have been quite miserable for a few years now. Most facets of my job I hate, while I do enjoy building relationships, helping and teaching patients about many health related topics. I work as an employee and am very rushed for my personality type, after taking your test I realized exactly why I felt this way. I've considered changing career fields drastically - I am a professional, have excellent interpersonal skills, am very detail oriented but don't know where to look as far as other career fields are concerned.

1. My unhappiness increases each and every day in my current position. My stress is at an unhealthy level. My position is stable. My benefits are fantastic. My salary is near 6 figures. Why am I so unhappy? What am I missing? What should I be doing differently?

2. How would you recommend dealing with negativity and cynicism in the workplace? Should I purposely avoid contact (as much as realistically possible) with the negative people? Should I leave or work towards a transition into a different job or position?

3. I love podcasting and blogging. I would love to make this my full-time job or at least a part-time job so that I can quit my boring day job. I do have a family to support.
Any ideas or direction would be greatly appreciated.

4. I am working on setting up a laser tag arena. I am going to try to rent/lease some land first and have it outside. How do I approach the owners of this property and work out some agreement when I have no start up money to buy this land? I heard you discuss about 30 Day lease with option to buy. But this is land is way out of my price range.

5. I've been in sales for 30 years. My formal education was in Marketing, Accounting and Finance. I don't do well sitting in one spot or behind a desk so I got into sales. I get bored and lose interest after I've proven I can do it. Many people have said I should start my own business, but doing what? I can't seem to find a passion for any one particular area.

6. I am a Chinese and in China now. I am finding a job now, but I realized that I need to find myself first. I am kind of losing directions, to be exactly, I never have one. I want to change to something new, but don't know what talents I have, nor do I know my interests. I don't know where to go or what to do. My confidence and enthusiasm are completely destroyed. I even want to go to an unknown place where nobody knows who I am. But I have no idea of what to do there. I am tired and feared with this mess in mind. Cannot figure a way out. Will you be able to help me?

Thanks so much for the tons of feedback I received regarding the podcast. Here are the clear and overwhelming consensus points:

We’ll keep using “Taking Care of Business� as the lead-in music. Many of you said this has become part of my brand and you don’t want it to change.

We’ll keep the length at 48 minutes. Again, many of you said that’s a reasonable length and plays off the brand again. Some asked for longer – no one suggested shorter.

We’ll maintain the variety in questions answered. Many of you said that even if a particular question did not relate to you, you enjoyed having the information for family, friends and just informed conversation.

A significant number of you were open to having a theme podcast – not regularly, but periodically. I will do that.

Also, you are open to having an occasional guest. Either a well known businessperson or someone I’ve worked with who has knocked it out of the park. Again, I will certainly do that.

And here are some of this week’s questions:

1. I am a residential builder/remodeler in Atlanta and have been through the ringer. In 2005 I had my name on several spec homes -- and my wife and I filed a CH13 bankruptcy. I have tried since late 2007 to rebound my life, my business and finances. I haven't lost hope but I just don't know if I should temporarily shelve the business and work for another company or tough this out.

2. I'm kind of stuck. I just graduated from college with a degree in Psychology. I have no experience in that area and I don't even think I'd like it. I just needed to get out of college. I'm not even sure what I'd enjoy doing for the rest of my life. It's very difficult for me to find my strengths since I haven't seen them used. I would appreciate a little push in the direction of finding my strengths and what I would like to pursue from the beginning point.

3. Would it be a good idea to hire someone to sell my product? I was considering bringing someone in to work based on commission. If the individual is successful selling, it would appear to me that he would be more valuable to the biz than anything else. Could that person demand more compensation or just leave and become a competitor of mine and do it himself?

4. I have enjoyed reading books out loud and reciting poems in front of an audience. Now with the availability of podcasting I would love to record my favorite novels and poems and distribute them on the internet. However, I am not sure what the legal implications are regarding copyrights.

5. I am 31 years old and have been working since I was 15. In that time, I've only held one job for over two years. Now wherever I apply, I'm labeled a "job hopper." Now that I've finally figured out what I want to do career-wise, how do I get over this hurdle?

I begin this podcast asking for your feedback. While the podcast is extremely successful in terms of numbers, I’m always looking for ways to make it better and more useful.

- Should I change the intro music?

- Should I answer more questions with shorter answers or fewer questions with more in-depth answers?

- Should I have podcasts with only one theme (e.g. eBay business, coaching, taxes and licenses, etc.)?

- Should I have guests periodically – with a particular theme?

Just shoot any ideas you have to askDan@48Days.com --- Thanks so much!

1. I am interested in doing some reselling. I'm concerned about doing it legally and without a lot of overhead. Do I need a permit to do this? Beyond that, do I need to get a taxpayer ID / form a company to do this? Do I have sales tax or other tax obligations?

2. My question is this- have you considered an artist seminar out at the Barn? I have heard you say that you have worked with artists on how to get their careers on track and the different options of marketing, agents, galleries and so forth. Do you have anything like that in the works?

3. Dan, my dream has come true!!! I will be managing this salon, recruiting the stylists, working my own hours and I WORK FOR MYSELF. Can you imagine that in the land of FAMINE, there is still a God that can bless and open doors despite my circumstances.

4. I’m 53 years old, bored with my job, not learning anything new, not intellectually stimulating. I don't know what my God given talents, skills are. And I wonder how do I go about finding out what my passions are, what my Goal should be. What is it that God wants me to be? Please help

1. I feel duped by my university in that I don't feel prepared enough for anything at age 39. I don't know what are my God given talents, skills, and wonder how do I go about finding out what my passions are, what my God chosen career is.

2. I am an educator and I see great value in your materials for young people. Have you considered creating content for the kindergarten through high school audience?

3. After reading 48 Days I feel confident I'm called to be a novelist. It may be another year before I can have a finished product ready for publishers to consider. Should I tough it out at my present, ill-fitting job and keep working toward my dream, or try to find something else?

4. I am debating between an e-bay business and a delivery business a Dry cleaning delivery service…. What should i take into consideration? How should I make this decision and not regret it later???

5. I commute about an hour and a half one-way everyday to my J-O-B. I leave about 5AM and get home about 6PM. I am looking for a creative idea as a sideline business where I can leverage my time in the car and still create extra cash.

1. You mentioned that you enjoy the challenge of starting ideas and once the idea is up and running you get bored with it pretty quickly. I too love to design, plan and implement ideas, but get bored once it is in place. My business goal is to develop products and ideas but I struggle with transitioning an idea into income.

2. I was very average in high school and was told I was not college material. I feel I'm being pulled to do something better -- more meaningful... maybe going to college. But I'm terrified at 47.

3. I am a very creative person and I have a Leonardo Da Vinci notebook full of ideas and inventions (20+). Fear stems from no money for my ideas. Should I seek out investors, legal counsel, ???

4. I have been out of a FT job since 2004, and very discouraged. I want to pursue my calling, art, but realize that my wife and I need $ now. We have pond-scum payday loans to pay, plus other debt. Should I deliver pizzas?

5. I have no sense of joy or accomplishment from a days work. I really enjoy the creative side of work. Is it feasible to turn my interests and passions into a business that will flourish and be able to provide for me financially? Part of the problem is that I am not a salesman.

1. Reading your book has confirmed that I’m really not a team player. I’m happiest being the �resident expert� or “resident consultant� and being in a position where what I do impacts others but doesn’t really require me to interact with them all that much. At age 59, with 35 years on the administrative side of the healthcare industry, how do I market myself so that my experience and solitary nature are seen as advantages?

2. I started back to school part time in January toward my dream of becoming a speech therapist. Is taking a big step backwards ( lower level job) to get where I want to go really as bad as people are trying to convince me that it is?

3. I love what I do, but I only represent one company. I have the opportunity to go on my own and potentially at least double my income AND represent many companies. My question is, historically I've been a "poor dad" type who looks towards the long term "stable" position. When you look at opportunities, do you look long term or short term?

4. I want to teach single mothers on welfare how to find their purpose, get rid of debt and grow wealth, and not depend on the government to take care of them in the long haul. I am currently a laid off mother of three on welfare. How can I do this with no money, experience, debt, and while I don't feel empowered myself? Where do I start?

5. I have been looking for jobs for the last year and I am still in the same dead end job. I am at my wits end and have basically decided that by my birthday of next year I will kill myself if I am still here; that is at least one goal that I can attain at this point. I don't know what my purpose is, don't know how to find it and surely at this point am tired of searching.

I begin this podcast by talking about “hope.� We’ve all been hearing a lot about this word recently. Some people think it’s an unrealistic approach to the realities of what’s happening. I agree that hope without a plan is empty and it is perhaps even cruel to suggest hope to someone without offering a plan of action.

What does having “hope� really mean?
What is our strongest resource in tough times?
What can you offer to others who are struggling?

I then threw in a tip from Dr. West Conner on how to listen to this (or any) podcast 40% faster.

Then on with the always intriguing questions:

1. I'm one of those people who took a job they really didn't like (teaching) just to take care of my family until I could find something that I did want. Your counsel reminded me of Russell Conwell's book "Acres of Diamond". Could you please elaborate on that?

2. I have an idea for a new business. Where can I go to ask someone to see if my idea will be profitable without being taken advantage of? (My answer may surprise you.)

3. My wife is a massage therapist and I am a home inspector. Would it be a good idea to find more business capital and where would be a good place to acquire it?

4. Can you tell us how long it took for you to take 48 days from "some notes in a binder" to a hardback book? Did you do self publishing in book form before it was picked up by a publisher? I have heard you say that you were selling the binder for $39. What were the pros and cons of moving to a $19 book whose profits you share with a publisher?

1. Any advice for making the first employee transition? I have considered letting them telecommute, but I want to have the person I hire in my sights. I want to see the emails they send to the client, I want to see them work on the files…. Am I being a control freak?

2. Why would God place me in a role that is not a good fit? I truly don't understand, especially after I was so certain He wanted me to leave. Please pray that I will get through the stress and troubles of this job. After all the stress and disappointment I have been through in last several years, I just feel like I have nothing left - I feel drained, spiritually tired.

3. I have several cutting edge "game" ideas that are itching to be launched. One of which is a puzzle game that would require hundreds of "photographs and images" that I'd acquire from stock photo websites. Considering copyright laws, do you have any input on the legal/financial feasibility of ever making such an endeavor work as an income generator?

4. I have been sending my resume on Careerbuilder.com to places. I was wondering if I should call the contact person as well to see if I could talk to them to get the ball rolling more, or just leave them alone and wait for a response. I haven't read your 48 days book yet, but I am planning on buying it.

5. Thank you for this opportunity to ask a burning question that is in my heart. I have been a part of a large congregation for over 18 years and I don't believe that I am walking in my God called purpose. I am there but I am not fulfilled. I don't want to leave but I feel like there is nothing there anymore for me. What is my problem?

1. I am a teacher in a public elementary school. I love what I do, but I am struggling with the low income and high-expense requirements of maintaining my teaching license. We're barely making ends meet. What can I do to increase my income?

2. I have 30 tax clients currently and am looking for an inexpensive yet effective way to grow my individual and business client base more quickly.

3. I was wondering about putting affiliate links to some seed companies and other general gardening e-books at the end of an e-book I am working on about growing and using herbs.

4. I stopped dreaming so long ago that I can't even remember what I loved to do. I just remember loving baseball more than anything else. Maybe I should get a glove and a ball and find a wall and play catch with myself for a dozen hours, and my dreams might start to come back.

5. I remember that you mentioned in your "48 Days" book that anyone could ask to be a distributor for a book. How would I go about doing this?

6. I want to give away clothes...and I do. I rented a storage unit and filled it up with donated clothes that I give away for free on Saturdays. How can I make a business of this? I love it, but the people I serve are pretty poor, hence the free clothes.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. The internet’s leading provider of spoken word entertainment. Get a FREE Audiobook download of your choice when you sign up for their free trial period today. Logon to audiblepodcast.com/work today for details.

1. How can I get started--or at least begin planning for--spreading the word and blanketing the land with the 48-Days message? I'm a 52 year-experienced man who has a passion for helping others implement their passions. How can I partner with 48 Days to spread the word and equip others?

2. I'm sure you've gotten this question before - what are your thoughts on the Amway business? Both Donald Trump and Robert Kiyosaki have stated that they were in favor of this type of business model.

3. I would like to start a career in sales and marketing -- how can I get started working in this field? It seems that the posted sales and marketing jobs in my area all require previous experience, which I need.

4. I have a friend that invented a ladder for the top of a van that slid off the edge of the roof. It seemed like a good idea and a major ladder company was interested. The patent cost him over $30,000. He is a painter like me, and has had financial problems ever since. The ladder never went anywhere. It's one thing to say there are a lot of inventions out there waiting to be developed, but how do you really develop them?

I begin this week’s podcast in addressing in more detail two issues:

1. Why do people who get money quickly sabotage their “success� and what can you do to be ready when your ship comes in.

2. Are there books in the “public domain� that you can make your own and sell for a profit? And the answer to that is a big resounding YES!

Then the frequent but certainly never common questions continue:

1. I'm 27 and I'm looking to start my own photography business by taking photos of properties for realtors. But I'm feeling apprehensive still. I've figured out that I'm afraid of rejection and ultimately, failure. I know that these things are part of being an entrepreneur, but I'm still having trouble getting myself motivated to take the first step.

2. Good news, my "real" job only pays $1200 a month (full time) and my self employment pays $900 (20 hours a month). I'm pretty certain I can build it up more, but I'm scared to let go of the "safety net" of the J-O-B. I'm scared to let go of that fairly certain $1200 a month. Should I try to tough it out for another year or should I quit now and try to build up my own business. (working as an employee at another business makes my skin crawl!)

3. I'm a single mom of three with a lot on my plate and I hate my job. I am unable to meet the required expectations and suspect that I will be unemployed in the near future. I'd like to start an internet store geared to encourage women to take quiet time. I'm looking to carry a variety of books on family, finances, developing a relationship with God. Also I'd like to carry bath and body products, gourmet coffee and chocolates. What are your suggestions?

1. I am a female, mid 50's and have numbed and suppressed my dreams through the years. I believe I manifested my discontent physically and got lupus. Once downsized - praise the Lord - all my symptoms disappeared! Now I am trying to find my passions and have found they've gone missing. The thought of working for another boss/company sends me into depression. How do I find the spark? Or my vocation?

2. I'm a Christian and I'm a writer. I write mostly non-Christian stories. I guess my first question is does me writing non-Christian stories dishonor God, since as a Christian I'd like whatever I do to bring honor to God? Secondly, as a story writer, how can I get exposure for my stories? Lastly, how can I go from writing stories as a hobby, to making money writing stories?

3. My business is in serious trouble. My bank called this week to say they are ‘calling my loan’ (SBA 7A - $700,000). My bank loan is tied to me personally (home, car, etc.). My landlord has a judgment on my warehouse (with a ‘for rent’ sign in the yard) and I have until March 16th to get out or be thrown out – or come up with $25,000 for back rent. Question. If I file bankruptcy (Chapter 7), is it too difficult to go back in business? Should I re-locate in an unknown area of the country? Is it impossible to get money for business again? I’m 59 years old.

4. You often refer to “striking a balance� in your life so if something goes wrong, like a job layoff, you still have other positive areas, like relationships that are working. I’m curious if you could elaborate more on the areas of your life one should be investing in.

5. Dan, you often ask people how are they going to position their product or service? Exactly what do you mean by that?

6. I am at ROCK BOTTOM! I'm broke, unable to work due to numerous health issues and really don't know where to turn or what to do. … I would have never imagined I would end up in this situation at 44 years of age. I feel pretty worthless and depressed. I am so ashamed of everything that has taken place and where I am today. I just don't have a 'purpose' anymore and am desperate for money to live on.

1. Hi Dan, my name is Ingrid, I work as loan officer at a bank, also I’m bilingual (English/Spanish) and love to help people. With the mortgage industry crash, I’d like to start a company to clean foreclosures houses. I know a lot of people I can hire, but I don’t know where to start to look for leads, as well I will need some money to start my company. Can you guide me please?

2. I see many articles regarding getting re-educated etc to get a new job, however there doesn't seem to be anyone addressing the situation of the older person who loses their position through no fault of their own. I am well educated, healthy, well groomed and get along well with others but I have not been able to find new work. My resume has helped me land several good interviews. I walked away feeling very good about the match of my talents to the requirements only to find later that I did not get the position. I feel strongly that it is the age issue. What is an older worker to do??

3. For 46 years I have been teaching music lessons from my home studio -- the occupation I love. Investments I made to sustain my later years vanished, and tuition income has dropped from 84K to 24K a year. On my web site I post free video music lessons and student performances, plus sell DVDs. Now age 70, should I sell my home, downsize and retire or get a reverse mortgage to pursue e-commerce and continue teaching?

4. You mentioned several years ago on one of your radio shows that you used to force your children to listen to inspirational tapes when they presented a bad attitude. My wife and I are currently experiencing this with some of our children and I wanted to know if you have any particular titles of audio products that you would recommend for the purpose of building good attitudes in our children. I think that this is a much more productive method to take than traditional punishment in this area and thanks for the idea!

5. I have found that HR departments, despite all protestations to the contrary, are utterly beholden to the Carnegie method (smile, compliment, etc.) and hire almost exclusively on superficialities rather than core competencies. They hire people for the same reasons most people choose one appliance over another – it fits their décor.

1. I am lost. I have a lot of debt. I don't know where to start. Do I need a finance coach or do I go to a lawyer? Do I do it on my own? Do I ignore all the pressures? Will a life coach help me? I have no money, but can trade my skills (graphic design/web).

2. I have spent the past 2 years trying to find God's Will for my vocation. I have resolved that God designed me to be inclined a certain way and that I should pursue what I truly want: Med School (Psych/Endo) I have ALWAYS wanted this. I work as a design engineer and have a BS in Counseling Psych and need about 2 years of Chem/Bio to apply to Med School. I really WANT it and would regret not pressing forward. Would you say go for it?

3. In these tough times a resume just isn't cutting it, would you approve of me using a Flyer with catchy images and my past bartending experience on it? I think it would catch the employers’ interest quicker than the plain old resume. What are your thoughts?

4. My question is once you give a verbal agreement for a job offer is it too late to try to negotiate for higher pay? I don't want to seem unprofessional but after giving more thought I think I should be paid more (the job is as a legal collector for a law firm). What should I do?

5. I am having a hard time with the first suggested reading book from you -- Napoleon Hill's Think and Grow Rich. The part I'm up to is autosuggestion and repeating over and over and visualizing money. Filtering this through a Christian mind set is very difficult. It just seems wrong meditating on money and filling my mind with ways to obtain it contrary to Biblical teaching……. After reading your book and being so positive I was inspired to fill my world with such positive material. And now this 'stumbling block' -- or is it. HELP so I can keep moving forward.

6. I am a 50 year old man. I lost my job in November after almost 27 years with the same company, 5 years short of early retirement. My experience is in IT, but most of my skills are in older technologies that aren't in high demand, so I haven't found anything yet. I believe I'll get another job eventually, but I'm heading back into IT even though my heart says I should be self employed. I have an idea for a business that I believe is a good one, but I really don't have a plan and I'm struggling with finding out how to get it off the ground.

Lots of you are facing unexpected challenges in their work today. But don’t let that derail your success in other more important areas of your life.

1. I would like to hear more of your thoughts on failure. What does a "successful failure" look like? How much should we risk in pursuit of our dreams? I doubt you would suggest that we risk our marriages, health, homes, etc. while seeking to reach our goals. What do you think is the right balance in this area?

2. People are asking me to help them start the same business I am in. How can I not be stingy but also not create my own competition?

3. I am a 41 (next week) year old single female - been told that I am very attractive, I keep in good shape, I have a Masters Degree in Public Administration, I am friendly with a great sense of humor and I love the Lord. …I struggle a lot with loneliness and my utmost desire is to be married and have a family (I am divorced 10 years now). … How do I find my calling when the desires of my heart are so glaringly missing?... How do I put my costume of the "career woman" on again when I do not believe deep in my soul that that is all I am meant to be?

4. I’m a single mom and recently lost my job. The day we were all let go we went out for some drinks and I received a DUI SO as of right now I am unemployed in litigation with my home and dealing with a DUI and not being able to drive. I am in a terrible place and see no way out and can’t help but feel totally helpless -- the depression alone is killing me.

5. Now that I am working on my own I often find it difficult to manage my time. With no boss looking over my shoulder and no clock to punch I find some days I let time slip away and I don't get as much done as I planned. I end up working late into the evening trying to catch up. Can you recommend any programs or resources on how to manage my time better so I can work productively during the day and then enjoy my time at night with my family?

6. When it rains it pours.... Like so many, my husband lost a business and is hanging in there working for others. We have scaled way back but can’t seem to come up with money for groceries. Last Friday I had a heart attack (51) ..... out of blue. I have no risk factors, smoking, weight issues, etc... Is it right to go ahead and apply for jobs in light of my new health challenges....

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1. I lost my job last December, my Wife and I fight all the time now because I can not find a job. I’m at the end of my rope and it about broke. Now what do I do? I've prayed and still no answer from God. Seems that my prayers are not heard.

2. When I apply for a job thru career builder or other jobsearch sites I have NEVER received a response or call for an interview. Why? My resume' is posted on the different job sites.... no recruiter has ever called me. What is going on...?

3. I am a Nurse.14 months ago I started an on-line pet jewelry site. Everyone loved the idea. One problem, my site and shopping cart was not designed well or user friendly. I generated interest in the product but, made no sales from the site. I am discouraged, and not sure if I should continue in today's economy or just call it quits with this product for now.

4. I am interested in starting my own retail business selling maternity clothing & accessories & nursing wear. How do I find out the average profit for this particular type of business in a town my size & the average start-up cost? What advice would you give to someone considering this?

5. On several occasions I’ve had neighbors ask me to paint their home. I’m not a painter by trade nor do own such business. My neighbors must admire the work I did on my own home, so they look at me as an alternative to hiring a pro. My dilemma is determining a fair fee for such a service. Any advice on pricing? I’ve never had to charge for such a service.

6. Hi, Dan. I feel like I am on the verge of a breakdown. I want to take a short leave of absence from my job to try to get things under control. How do I handle this without my employer thinking I am cookoo? I just need a break. I am a wife, mother, work full-time, take care of an elderly parent, you name it. ~Signed, Very Overwhelmed in Georgia

As you can see the writers of the first two questions are pretty discouraged. This is just a sampling of the tons that I’m getting right now – discouraged and defeated. In the first 10 minutes of this podcast I address how to break the cycle of defeat.

1. Okay so I am facing really impossible odds, a family who is unsupportive, abusive at times, a church family who has misunderstood me and financial and housing woes. No help from anyone. Not to mention I am worried about my health. When is it time to give up?

2. Dan, Help me, I'm miserable, my current job is literally ruining my life. I'm a fairly young man with a family I feel I'm stuck in my current position to "pay the bills" but it is making me severely depressed and affecting every part of my life.

3. How do you create your podcast? I would like to create my own podcast, but do not know how to get started. Any help would be great. As always, thank you for your TREMENDOUS ministry.

4. Thinking of starting a career/life coaching business. In light of the economy and the wave of layoffs that seem to be in the news lately, is it practical to start a career/life coaching business? Is it reasonable to think that this would be successful, when folks with and without jobs are holding back on their expenditures?

5. Any idea on how the natural and holistic health field might be looking in the near future? I hear it is growing because more and more people are looking to prevent illness due to lack of health insurance and such.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. Download a free audiobook of your choice today at audiblepodcast.com/work.

1. I’ve created a 20 page ebook on "The #1 Key to Speak Like a Pro. My question is about price. What do you think is a good asking price for this kind of resource?

2. I want to sell rum cakes to restaurants. I’ve come across a major stumbling block though. As it turns out, the state will not certify someone who bakes from home. How would I be able to overcome this obstacle?.... How can I write my own success story?

3. My wife loves what she does for work but doesn't like where she is doing it. She's built up a steady clientele (female skin enhancements) for herself but this is just making her boss more money. The big issue is she signed a "non-compete" clause that says she cannot work within 25 miles of her existing employer for 1 year if she leaves...is this legal or possible to get around?

4. I want to make my writing a full-time career, but how do I start? Typically, I write non-fiction satire as that is what I'm living. :) But I'd love to go into more of the creative writing/screen writing avenue. How do I jump start the drive that's inside me and make this dream a reality?

5. I have been following your job search plan for almost 2 months and have not received any job offers. Most of the decision makers I have spoken with have indicated that my abilities would be useful to their organizations, but they are not hiring. Given this, I suspect that I need to improve my ability to close the deal. Do you have any suggestions for how a high S, high C personality might improve this aspect of his search?

6. I HATE my current job. I have an interview in the next few days at a place I would love, and a job I would love working with special needs children!! However I would go from a salary of $45,000 to about 12,000. I would love what I'm doing. How does a Mom of 3 make such a decision? I need to support my children yet HATE what I am doing now.

This podcast is brought to you by Audible.com. Download a free audiobook of your choice today at audiblepodcast.com/work You know what a believer I am in listening to positive information – and here’s an easy way to enrich your own personal library.

Okay, here’s a sampling of this week’s questions:

1. I have ideas for spiritual books, family books, professional books, etc. Am I too broad in my focus?

2. I am 38 years old and what has stopped me from pursuing my dream of writing fantastic fiction full time (horror and sci fi) are certain Christian friends of mine who say its a sin to write that stuff. But I love that stuff and am a Christian myself. How do I know God is calling me to it if so many of the faithful think its wrong?

3. Hello Dan, how do you feel about programs like medi-share, a Christian healthcare plan versus a Health Savings account?

4. I have been completely sickened with the way my employers conduct their (construction) businesses. They way they handle their finances and simply the way they treat their subcontractors and clients. A large part of me does not even want to be associated with the construction industry, because of the horrible reputation it has in my area. Should I start my own construction company or look in a different direction?

5. I stopped taking customers for my wedding planning business – so I would have time to create my business plan. Then I plan to borrow money to start my business up again. (Sounds like she killed the golden goose so she’d have time to draw a picture of a goose.)

1. Would being a weight loss coach or selling air purifiers work in this economy?

2. Is this foolish to try and pursue freelance architectural work given the current situation of the housing market?

3. Where can I buy new video games at a bulk rate to then resell them on eBay individually?

4. I am a 58 year old pastor who needs an additional income but I don’t know where to begin when it comes to an online business. Can you help?

5. There's a lot of discussion around Mastermind groups and their effectiveness to build one's career. Does the group have to consist of everyone from the same occupation or like business owners? How often should a mastermind group meet? What is the ideal size, or maybe what size prohibits productivity?

6. Every job I get makes me feel like the life is being sucked out of me. I try to talk myself into liking my job. I feel like I am being stifled. How do I know whether or not I’m just being "picky"?

This is an abbreviated holiday podcast that I called “Lemonade and Donut Holes.� Last week Joanne and I had our flight cancelled in Chicago – bringing into question whether we would be able to get home for Christmas Day. We saw spouses angry with each other, parents yelling at children, and overworked airline employees short-tempered with customers.

If circumstances determine our level of happiness, then we are all very vulnerable. If circumstances threaten our closest relationships, then they were not built on solid principles originally. Only as we look past the day-to-day challenges will we have the confidence that nothing can derail us. Focusing on our priorities and long-term goals, we can hold our heads high and keep moving forward with joy and positive anticipation.

This podcast is about 20 minutes of encouragement to make lemonade when life tosses you a few lemons.

Here’s a recap of some of the questions covered in this 48-minute podcast:

1. I am currently in a contract position in a pharmaceutical company – with an opportunity to become a permanent employee in 2009. What advice would you have for negotiating salary and benefits?

2. I'm considering buying a franchise with startup costs of approximately $250,000. Are there benefits to buying a franchise as opposed to starting a business from scratch?

3. I have lots of good ideas for starting a business. However, can you explain to someone how to eliminate procrastination?

4. If I understand correctly, you started your career in coaching with linear income before moving on to residual. If you could do it again, would you (and could you) have focused only on residual income? Or was the work you did while earning linear income necessary for the residual?

5. I've always had an interest in becoming a life coach. I wonder whether you think this is a viable career during the current recession.

6. After speaking with my academic adviser she told me I need to start taking more classes or it will be 10 years before I finish. I can’t do that! I work 80 to 100 hrs a week (no exaggeration) and taking just one class at a time has been putting a toll on my family life. I have decided to quit college. Is this the right choice?

I started this podcast by reviewing some of the questions on the 48Days.net forum postings

- So, I have a business idea….what’s next?

- Any advice for website ministry to pastors

- I am a roofing contractor and am interested in going green. How do I get started?

- I am a single mother of twin boys, and my credit is prohibiting me from gaining employment in my skill set.

- My husband and I are going to divorce and as a result I will have to go back to work full time. How do I handle this in an interview situation?

- I know that each November you plan the next year. You have said that you plan to stop doing a certain percentage of things to make room for new things. Would you please elaborate on your process?

Sure, times are tough for lots of us. Are you going to go down in flames or are you still confident there are opportunities out there?

1. Should I pay a $25,000 franchise fee to make 6 figures?

2. I have one foot on the dock and one on the boat. How do I decide when to cast away?

3. Where I can I purchase books for “pennies in the dollar?�

4. I find it hard to write a resume “specifically tailored for each job.�

5. I am a 50-yr-old artist. Love to sculpt and paint but struggle with marketing.

6. I have not worked full-time for 9 years. How do I now compete with 20-yr-olds for jobs?

I begin this podcast talking about the frequent instances I am involved in where someone was in a great career position and then sabotaged it with a marital indiscretion. We need to be very careful about momentary decisions that would cost us our financial, career and personal futures. It’s hard to expect career success when we’ve bombed in other areas of our lives. They’re all tied together. Either you’re making deposits of success or failure – in each area of your life – you decide.

1. I recently retired (54 year old male) from the federal government. How can I still serve and contribute to society?

2. How do I create residual income in the craft business?

3. In interviewing for a traditional job, is the suit and tie the only appropriate male attire?

4. I'm trying to switch jobs but everywhere I apply you need 2-5 years direct experience it seems. How do I qualify for a job if I never even meet the minimum requirements?

5. How can you tell whether job dissatisfaction is from personal discontentment (no matter the job) or if it is truly a need for a change of vocation?

This current economic unrest has a lot of people looking for more creative ideas for income generation. Recognize that often a “crisis� acts as a stimulator to wake up childhood dreams or the things that we have been waiting our whole lives to do anyway. Accept the “opportunity.�

1. How can my fiancé find the top quality employers as a preschool teacher that will compensate her for her skills, talents, degree, and professionalism?

2. I have spent the past 20 years in the World of Information Technology but my real passion lies in music. Is it possible for someone like myself, in their early 50's, to pursue such a dream?

3. How do I launch a magazine?

4. I own a small bookstore, we sell used books. It is not a moneymaker, but it would be much better if I could own my own building instead of paying rent. I have looked at SBA and Grant opportunities - not great. Any ideas?

5. I'm sure you've been asked this a million times, but what if you have no passions, or simply just too tired to care anymore? I have a business but I'm running it alone (with occasional help from family).I just go day to day......

The questions posed by you, our readers, continue to inspire me to search for new resources to help us all. The questions seem to become more and more directed toward non-traditional work – how to develop creative ideas for fulfilling and profitable work. I’m not sure if that’s primarily because of my own enthusiasm for that or if it reflects a real shift in our readers’ desires. I suspect it’s both.

I’d like to get an article in Reader’s Digest – how do I do that?

I want to sell my business – how do I establish a fair price?

How do I build my client base for my accounting business?

I want to be in the music industry but don’t want to be in the limelight.

I sold a product on Amazon – and after fees netted $2.67 in profit. How can I change this?

Okay, we are certainly entering a new season as a country. How should we move forward? I got a lot of these questions – and just addressed it briefly at the beginning of this podcast.

- Now that we know who the next president of the God Loving USA is, how do we prepare our 2009 business goals in regard to taxes and income?

- Dan, what do you think of the concept of network marketing if the product is great and the training is exceptional?

- I was laid of from a job that I had for 10 years. I am currently looking for a part time job that will not interfere with my current job search. Do you have any recommendations?

- What’s the best way to handle the “Reason for leaving� part of a job application? In my case, I’ve been fired for not performing to my boss’s satisfaction. I’ve also been fired for conflicts with a co-worker.

- Where would I be able to find legitimate liquidation merchandise to sell on e-bay?

- I now work for an employer who I think is maybe not the most honest or moral person. Should I stay for the sake of my direct reports or start looking for something else ASAP.

Where can I get above average stability and compensation? (It can be in making pizzas or doing brain surgery – if it’s a “fit� for you.)

· I know exactly what I want to do--writing--but can't find anyone to pay me to do it. I just want to find a job I love that pays the bills. What should I do?

· I am currently a burned out CAD Technician, looking to get into a career that can offer above average stability and compensation.

· What business can I start to include my 3 sons?

· I want to know the purpose of God in my life

· I've been in the field of education for 18 years. In order to move to the next level, I would have to invest in a PhD. I will never recoup that investment in earnings. Is it worth it?

· I am high in I (Influencer) on the 48 Days Personality Profile. Can you talk about the possible careers for this and some of the pitfalls?

Stay humble and be underpaid – or move on?

· I’ve been fired and I’m suing the company. How do I tell a potential employer about this?

· How do I need to handle taxes as a self-employed individual

· I know what to do but don’t act – is there any hope for me?

· I have strong academic abilities but don’t know what to do with that

· How can I get paid for my ideas?

· Despite vast experience, successful leadership, implementation of many projects, and achieving unprecedented cost savings, I have never been promoted to Director level or beyond. Should I continue to humble myself, work as to the Lord and wait to be “exalted in due time,� ...or is it time to move on?

I begin by commenting briefly on the state of the economy and sharing a couple of helpful resources sent in by listeners. I’ve been getting asked a lot about whether this is even the time to be looking for new, innovative ideas – or should we just get ready for a long, cold barren winter? Then I hit the great questions – lots of variety and always more interesting than I could possibly dream up.

- What should I do if I know I want a home business but have no idea what I would do? I don’t have any unique skill or idea as a starting point.

-How do I know what to charge for my services? Business owners are asking me to help them conduct business in other languages.

-I have an idea for a business but don’t have the money to start. Should I borrow it or just wait until I can save it myself?

-How can I get your list of 48 low-cost ways to promote my business?

-What do I need to be able to do a podcast like you’re doing?

-I’m living in Sydney, Australia and am ready to buy a cleaning franchise. Is this a bad time to start a business of my own?

It’s no surprise that I’m getting lots of questions regarding the economy these days. Are there really opportunities that still exist or do we all need to just hunker down and expect the worst? Well, you know my response to that – and this week’s questions and comments will confirm my belief that new opportunities are all around us.

Here are some of the issues covered:

- Should I buy a “business opportunity� or is it a scam?

- I’m moving from “employee� to “independent contractor.� How do I become incorporated and get a tax ID?

- My wife is a 52-yr-old nurse and is convinced she’s too old to learn anything else. How can I help her see other opportunities?

- I’d like to be a millionaire in eight years. Can I use real estate as my vehicle for wealth?

- I’m 32 and have had two “dull and unexciting� jobs in my life. I don’t feel like I have any skills that an employer would want. How can I move forward?

I begin this podcast by responding to some comments I’ve received this week – indicating that I have my head in the clouds and have lost touch with reality. A couple people are convinced I don’t know what it’s really like “out there.� Thus the question is, “When circumstances are tough, should we just ‘be realistic’ and recognize that our dreams will never be accomplished, or should we continue doing the things that are proven to lead to success?�

Then I address:

· Negotiating a compensation package as a church staff member

· What is the difference between 48 Days to the Work You Love and No More Mondays?

· My wife is unexpectedly pregnant – should we stop all the plans we had for moving and getting new jobs?

· With the economy in such an unstable condition, does it make sense to start a business now?

· Dan, I can’t take action because I can't get clear on what I want. I have read, sat quietly, asked others but nothing grabs me.

1. I have a practical idea for a travel shower caddy, especially useful for the camper, but I have absolutely no idea where to start in having a prototype produced. Can you give me some advice?

2. Hi Dan - I have recently started my own business which provides a very specialized service to a niche market. I have a list of approximately 70 potential target companies in Tennessee. What is the best way to approach these companies to introduce myself and the services I provide?

3. What are the best ideas veteran teachers have come up with for getting out of the classroom and still making a living? I am an excellent teacher with on going resume building experiences in education but I am tired of the "system" teachers have to put up with.

4. There is a provision in my State's law that allows manicurists to offer services to individuals in health facilities. I would like to offer natural manicure/pedicure services to women recovering from child birth in maternity wards at a few area hospitals using nail polishes that are fume-free and safe for breast-feeding women. Would love to hear your thoughts.

5. Hi Dan, I'm 48yrs. old, & approx. 1 yr ago, I left a good job/benefits/salary in Corporate America to pursue something more meaningful. I thought that I would pursue my calling into FT Ministry or perhaps Seminary. 1 yr. later and I'm not in either. I'm now considering Teaching, but not sure. I'm running out of time & $. Can you provide any insight?

1. I have been a stay at home mom for over 18 years and would like to go back to work on a part time basis. I am not planning on returning to my previous career, financial analyst, and feel like a college freshmen having to declare a major. How do I get started?

2. I'm a married, 28 years-old pastor finishing up my Masters of Divinity, paying for school as we go. In my church, we have a “glass ceiling� regarding income potential. What are some ways that I can increase my potential earnings in a church setting?

3. I have seen many people succeed with out a degree or schooling for that matter, however my parents and in-laws pound it in my mind that I will never win or succeed with out getting a degree. I am not leaning to the idea of being lazy; but I just don’t fit well in traditional boring class room environment versus on the job training and apprenticeships.

4. I get excited about your train of thought and even imagine how great it would be to apply the methods you mention in your programs to my own life yet when it comes time for action I end up watching mindless television re-runs and obnoxious commercials. Am I lazy, scared, lack self-discipline or all of the above?

5. I am a teacher with a job I cannot be fired from, a 10% pay raise each year and benefits I do not pay for. So what's wrong! I hate my job. I have experience with the food industry and an MS in marketing but 7 years since I was in the marketing world. Employers want to know why I want to switch now. Also I am mid 50's.

1. How do you identify PASSION when that word seems so intense? You've addressed this before & I'm reading 48 days but the word "passion" itself seems too intense for me. I have a hard time saying that there is anything other than my loved ones that I feel "passionate" about... How do identify that when I can’t recognize what it? >Thanks for all you do!!!

2. Dan, I am in a real bind. I work as a bookkeeper for my family's business and handle all of my parent's personal bills. I DESPISE this position. The way money is being handled makes me really disrespect my folks. I want out. I'm sick of worrying about my parent's financial situation! How can I cut the chords without severing ties??

3. How do you combat the isolation of working from home? This month marks my one year anniversary working from home. I'm really getting lonely. I'm so busy working I don't have time to network. I really wish someone would just walk by my desk and say hi, almost to the point of getting a 9-5 job!

4. Dan, I'm 55 years old and finally following my dream of doing something with my love of art that I've had all my life. I'm doing wood sculpture similar to what was done on your property that you mention in your book. How do I go about getting my name out and what I do?

5. I quit my job to come home and care for our son with special needs. My wife works full time. I'm having trouble formulating my dream. I like lots of things. Most of my work career has been in journalism and pastoral ministry. How can I create a good supplemental income from home?

1. A year ago I decided to leave a good job to attend graduate school to get my PhD in history. I now have no desire to complete my degree and I am completely burned out. How do I explain to an employer the gap in my work history since I did not complete my degree? Is this going to make me look like a quitter?

2. How can I find out what color my parachute is?

3. Dan, I've heard on your podcasts you have sold cars to supplement your income. My son and I would love to start doing this together. I've sent away for a dealer’s license, but the application requires a business address and insurance. If you don't mind revealing, how did you start and where did you find deals?

4. I've tried selling eBooks and podcast subscriptions over the Internet before and found that there is so much free information available; it was extremely difficult to get people to actually pay for it. I think I've made about $40 total. How do we make people want it badly enough to pay?

5. Is there really life after being terminated from a position? I have had an excellent work record until this last position. Though I made many improvements, for many reasons, most political - I was terminated. I don't feel bitter or angry - just hurt and disappointed in myself.

6. Years ago I got an entrepreneurial opportunity off the ground only to get killed by the IRS because I am not a good bookkeeper. I have lived in fear of that experience ever since. I'm just trying to turn this seeming setback into an awesome opportunity and turning point in my life.

1. How do you know the difference between being in the wrong job or being in the right job and you're being stretched?

2. I was wondering if you might dedicate an entire podcast to raising kids to be hard workers and have a "No More Mondays" mindset. I need help being creative with my kids and helping them be creative in ways to make money.

3. Can you talk about pricing soft services like coaching and how to find the right price to charge?

4. I am stuck in a "RUT" I go to a job every day (commuting in rush hour traffic for an hour) that I know is not my calling --sitting at my desk for most of the day doing nothing and I am learning nothing. I don't know what to do.

5. What do you do if you want to start a business but every idea is either something you don't want to do, don’t know how to do or don’t have the money to do?

1. Is it okay to work in something that is not my passion – but pays the bills?

2. Should I leave a government job – “with security� – to go with something that has more potential?

3. Is it too late to start at 50 to find a career that feeds my soul and my pocketbook?

4. Is it wise to borrow money to cover my income while I get my coaching biz started or continue working full time?

5. The company I work for is losing money and sure to close down soon. Should I move on or stay to the end?

We had lots of response to last week’s podcast on “social entrepreneurship.� Here’s just one:

Thank you so much for the podcast with Jared. I am from Kenya and my village is crippled with so much poverty. I have wanted to do something with the women, most men are dead or gone. I wanted not to ask for aid or give the women handouts, I want them to use the available resources to make money and come out of poverty. My village is pretty small and I know this can work. I just had no idea how to implement this whole thing. I need to sort myself out in terms of getting some income and then achieve this long term goal that I have. Thank you so much and to Jared, you are a jewel in Africa we do not need Aid, we need to get out of the poverty ourselves. Grace Onyango

And then the usual questions:

1. I have a lot of academic and volunteer experience in the field of disability services. As a person with a disability I would like to coach persons with disabilities and/or their parents in life success strategies and navigating programs for the disabled. Is it reasonable for me to think that I could have a business coaching persons with disabilities up and generating a decent income in the next three to six months?

2. Dan: I have been through the 48Days course and I wonder if I could adapt it to teach as a technical college continuing education type course. I am currently teaching at a two year technical college in Commercial Printing but I talk to a lot of students (old & young) that have no idea what they want to do career wise that fits their gifts & abilities. Any ideas?

3. Dan, My wife is staying home with our newborn, and I'm trying to find some creative income methods to supplement our greatly reduced income. What do you think about a small carpet cleaning business? It appears that the only startup costs are approximately $1,000 for the equipment. I figure doing a few houses on the weekend could net me somewhere around $8,000 to $15,000 per year, which would make a big difference to our $55,000 household income.

4. I’ve always worked hard and done my best. 3 years ago I became a manager, but I’m not happy. I just don’t care about the job. I can’t afford to quit, but I don’t feel like I am doing any good. I am unfocused and forgetful and it’s affecting my entire life. I feel like I’m failing my family.

5. I cry EVERY day. Single Mom w/3 kids no support. Currently working as paralegal because of high pay. HATE IT. Working through your 48days book. Need your encouragement, please. Tell me I can work this out and still feed the kids. Monthly bills $4000.

Many of you have asked to hear more about “social entrepreneurship.� I have mentioned this frequently over the last couple of years as a growing example of being able to “do good� while “doing well.� What I mean by that is that you can change the world, address pollution, poverty, share the gospel, make the world a better place – you get to decide what your passion is – and MAKE MONEY in the process.

In this podcast I have my son Jared as my guest. Jared is executive director of www.sistersofrwanda.org in Kigali, Rwanda. He has a great model of working with the women at the bottom of the ladder economically and socially, and has now created a model where they can earn significant income while providing funding for the organization’s administrative needs as well.

I love this growing awareness of “social entrepreneurship� or the understanding that we can shift capitalism to create good. Many of us come from backgrounds that make us question if making money is somehow moving away from doing true ministry. I am convinced it is the most effective and most direct path to actually increasing our ministry efforts.

Jared and I explain how his organization has become self-sustaining and how you can take your idea and do the same using “social entrepreneurship.�

1. I'm struggling with something and hope you might have some insight. I'm wrestling with how much I seek God for His will and what He wants vs. doing what I want for my life's work. Does it just not matter to God what we do, as long as we walk w/Him in it?

2. Okay Dan, I've listed my skills, interests and personality characteristics on paper, it was a great exercise! But now how do I integrate this information to come up with the right business ideas?

3. Any advice for a mom of 4 kids (who has been a Stay-At-Home-Mom for 10 years) to prepare for eventual employment in the next 3 years when the baby starts school full time? What can I do now to be prepared?

4. In my pursuits of purpose and increase in income I have a hard time with tithing. I've tithed for years and in this last year it has been a hard struggle. What do you do? This is my money. I truly care about God's Kingdom but I also have pursuits that I care about and want to invest in. It always seems that after you tithe you don't have enough and then you're expecting to "hold on".

5. I have been a metal fabricator for over 15 years. I am stuck at $39k a year. I love what I do for a living, just not the wages. What direction can I go with all that I know, that can place me in the $65k to $90k income range?

6. I noticed in your most recent newsletter that you would advise someone whose spouse is not on board with anything "revolutionary" to just go ahead and get a regular job. Did I read that correctly? My spouse is not supportive either, but I have every intention of doing something extraordinary and proving to her that I can do it.

1. I have an idea for a non-profit business that currently does not exist that benefits children. It is something I have a heart for and am passionate about. Can I support my family this way?

2. You have talked about setting up a system where products you sell on a website could be shipped directly from the manufacturer and you do not have to mess with carrying inventory etc. How do I set up such a system (through a fulfillment house) and how do I find product manufacturers that would do this.

3. I want to be self employed with no employees. I have 2 to 4 simple business ventures I could begin, but I am unsure that any one of them alone could meet my long term financial needs. What is your opinion on managing a few ventures where the sum total of their income does meet my needs? Have you seen this approach successfully used?

4. Dan, I love teaching and working with kids in the outdoors, primarily through Scouting. However, it's pretty hard to replace a $75,000 income doing either of those things. Any thoughts on how I might turn these passions into a viable profession?

5. Thanks to Dave Ramsey we have no debt except our home and we are working on getting it paid off. However, though we bring in $130k/year (70k for me, 60k for her), I am MISERABLE. We have financial goals that seem to force me to stay in a job I DETEST! Should I try to transition now or wait until we have the house paid off?

6. Dan, I have an idea about starting a business making video resumes for people. I've made my own and gotten positive feedback. Is there a market for this and where do I start? Thank you for your ministry! I left teaching after 13 years and can't tell you the peace I feel at the thought of NOT going back in August!!!!

1. My Pastors wife is looking for me to help her out with selling her paintings and art work. All her work is Christian based and wants to generate income to help her family. Do you have any ideas for me on how I can go about to show her the steps to take? Thank you.

2. I am on Social Security Disability and am very disabled. Cannot handle any kind of stress without passing out. No money to start anything. Cannot afford necessary food, or your books and packages. Intensely desire to be like an ancient man named Enoch, or another named Jesus. Does that make a living?

3. I want to start my own business, however I have no desire to ever have any employees or manage people. If I have a service business such as lawn care, how do I grow my business without hiring employees? I fear that the business will eventually die because I turned down jobs based on my time limitations.

4. I will be 45 this year and have only had one job I loved and have failed at about everything else I have tried. I am sure I have found a new passion and want to work for myself but of course the FUD factor is blinding me. I don't want to let down my family and be seen as a failure again. Any Ideas???????

5. I am almost 60 years old -- Lots of experience training, teaching, facilitating workshops. I am tired of working and have a passion for speaking and training. Problem: I am scared to death. People tell me I have a great speaking voice, I always get standing ovations, but I am usually frightened to death until I get on stage, then I am fine. It takes me forever to put together a speech because I am so scared of failing. I just need to get started but don't know how. Please advise.

6. In a recent podcast you spent a great deal of time discussing resources such as books, audio, teleseminars, tradeshows, etc. and you highly recommended that people should immerse themselves in all of the available information for professional growth and development. I love to do just that! However, I have found myself wondering how to avoid "paralysis by analysis" and actually put ideas into action. I can get caught up on the latest ideas and lose focus on a profitable plan. Any suggestions?

1. I'm starting a business and have a friend with the right abilities to help. Though she would be integral to the function and marketing, the business couldn't exist without my license, degree, and experience. How can I set this up? What is a practical way to divide the fee if 50/50 isn’t quite appropriate? Thank you

2. Other than Matthew 6:33, what does the word of God say about job hunting? I have been looking for over a month, have a great coach and still no success.

3. I want to create an internet based business because I want to work at home and create my own schedule and it has no age discrimination attached to it. Here’s my idea... Made to order organic t shirt business (online only) I'm trying to find suppliers that will make as the orders come in. I worked in the fashion industry " one of the jobs that was on my "I want to try..." list" I observed women had a terrible time with t shirts fitting right.

4. I hate the current job I'm in. I'm 32 years old and I drive a forktruck at a factory here in town. I'm really burned out on my job and I'm not sure how much longer I can keep this up. I really enjoy drawing and I also am passionate about cars. Do you have any advice on where I should go from here?

5. I followed God's call in ministry for over 20 years. Two years ago I attempted to transition from ministry into something outside the local church. What direction does an ordained minister go if not into ministry, social services, or parachurch organizations? I want to start my own Christian apparel line, but do not know where to start.

6. When doing consulting, how do you decide how much to charge? I want to be fair to people, but I also don't want to price myself out of the market. Just doing simple math, my salary at my old job works out to $60 an hour. My consulting job is literally the same work I was doing at my company. Is $100 an hour fair?

Check out the last question here. It’s a great question for all of us – I trust I was honest in my response.

1. What kind of entrepreneurial choices are available for someone whose personality is that of a follower instead of a leader? I'm the type of person who enjoys working in the background and letting others manage and network with customers.

2. I have a passion for helping people work through addiction recovery. I want to write a daily devotional to help encourage them. Even better: make an audio recording they could download and listen to whenever they chose. I'm trying to get out of my day job. Do you this idea can work?

3. Dan, I am an extremely introverted person. I have been very successful in sales for almost 20 years but have been miserable the whole time. I come home to my family but just want to be left alone because I am so drained at the end of the day. I love doing research and collecting motivational and Christian quotes but don't know how to convert this into a career, particularly one that will replace my current salary ($100K/yr). Thank you!

4. Dear Dan, Could you recommend a few books on marketing that would be applicable to churches. I am currently the full-time minister for a small congregation but I see myself moving on to another congregation in the next couple of years and I would like to position myself as a church marketing expert. Any suggestions would be helpful.

5. Dan, I was contacted by a recruiter who scheduled a face to face interview regarding a job opportunity. While at the meeting, I was told, "you need to take this crap off your resume" referring to the 6 years I was a stay at home mom. In it I outlined my volunteer efforts as a Church Secretary, Co-Youth Director, and PTA helper. I was offended since I consider the time I took off to raise my kids as the most rewarding job I've ever had. I just wanted to know what your thoughts was on this, and please, offer any help you can give to women (or men) who may be up against the same hurdle.

6. I'm 44, in a job I loathe (for 20 years). I don't really know if I have a passion for anything anymore. I've lost myself through the years. How can I find what my gifts are and find my passion to work for myself?

7. If you only had 7 days to live who would you call? What would you do? Why?

I’ve titled this week’s podcast – “Digging for Gold – Finding Profitable Ideas in the middle of Busyness.�

One of the most common questions from readers is simply how to find an idea worth pursuing. Questions like these.

-My problem is lack of ideas and forgoing a steady revenue stream.

-I can't think of a home business that interests me.

-How can I train myself to think more creatively?

-Need new ideas to generate extra income.

-I the biggest obstacle is finding something I am passionate about.

-What if I don't have a unique business idea?

I talk about how unwelcome change may be the catalyst for your great idea – if you are paying attention. (Example – Dave Ramsey) I tell the two books that every successful person has read, which magazines I read, and how two hours a day transformed my own success.

1. I am unemployed and don’t have the financial resources to start a business, but I can't motivate myself to go back to any 8-hour JOB! I want to be an engagement & marriage coach.

2. How much time do I really need to free up to get my business going on the side so I can make a step rather than a leap in the next 24 months? I am a landscape painter (oil) and currently work for Corporate America! Help!

3. I'm nervous about leaving a secure salary because I failed once. Business is picking up now and I want to start treating it like a real business not a hobby.

4. I figured out I'm supportive and encouraging and half outgoing. I love helping others, encouraging people, and just being there for people when i can. I want to see others happy, to people rise above their problems, see them come to know god, help kids get on the right path. (Can I make a living doing this?)

5. I am a volunteer youth pastor, I work at a dead-end job making around 31,000 dollars a year, I attend school full time, majoring in psychology and feel like I'm getting nowhere. I really like to write. Stuff about God, stuff about politics. I love writing songs and poems too. I just don't know where to start and I'm kind of confused. I want to do the youth pastor thing but I'm broke and not sure what to do. Lots of dreams and no plans or idea as to how to get started.

6. I've begun to write bite-sized Christian devotionals for women and I'd like to be able to get them published. I have never written anything for "publication" before, but I feel I have testimonials and encouraging messages to share. I'm writing on my own--not in a writers' group; can these devotionals actually get launched? Any guidance?

No Money – No Problem

I begin this podcast by sharing about a lunch meeting with an up-and-coming music star in Nashville. Then I spend the rest of the time dealing with this all so common question – How can I possibly start an idea of my own without “enough� money? We had 4685 questions submitted for our recent 212ºConnection teleseminar. Probably 800-900 dealt with this issue. Here’s just a sampling – then you can listen to my reasons for moving ahead even if you have zero money!

1. I have worked for a single employer for 30 years. I can retire now with half of my present income with no benefits. I need to earn enough money to make up the difference plus health care my family(wife and 4 kids ages 6 to 13) The idea of self employment sounds like a great adventure from the present torture of my current job. I am 49.

2. My greatest concern is that we have so much debt that I feel like we will never get out of it so that I can pursue my dream of owning my own business.

3. I need cash flow and looking for that is interfering with building my business - a bit ironic.

4. How do I transition form employee to entrepreneur without losing income.

5. My greatest concern is that I will be able to provide income for my family.

6. I have an idea of a business I want to invest in when I save up, but I keep hearing that I can start a business with no capital. But without the structure of the pre-set up business, I'm not sure I will every actually follow through...

7. My idea is good but what is stopping me is my credit. I don't think I can afford the start-up cost.

1. I've been self-employed since graduating college in 1985, and I love being self-employed. I work at home as a real estate appraiser and broker. But at 45, with 22 years of poor money management, debt, and no retirement, I'm growing more and more concerned about ever being able to retire, or not being able to work due to health reasons. I am beginning to wish I had been employed somewhere for the past 20+ years, where I would have some benefits.

2. Dan, I have been employed by a large national company the past few years. While they provide me and my family a salary and security (IE insurance) I find the work non-rewarding. I am talking to a much smaller company where the work will be more rewarding, and an opportunity to do what I love, but the security of a large company will not be there. What factors should I consider before considering this job?

3. Why did you choose wordpress over blogger or other blog sites? Also, can you make money by using a blog such as teleseminars, e-books, affiliate marketing etc.?

4. Bank account: -$450. Business loan: -$100,000 with $850/month interest only payments. Mortgage: $250,000 Degree: No. Kids: No. Husband: No. Invested in business, economy collapsed and I lost everything. On the verge of foreclosure. How do I start over?

5. My very talented husband is trying to start his own internet business. He's tried just about everything from Jeff Paul to Carlton Sheets to FOREX to Quixtar etc. He's a great poet/entertainer and wants to sell his poems. Any suggestions?

6. Dan, I am writing a book to give to my children (and to sell) and want to have someone do illustrations and really make it look nice, like those on SimpleTruths.com. How do I approach someone with it without losing the idea and content? Thanks again for your insights and inspiration.

I start this podcast by addressing the issue of doing work you love AND making significant money at the same time. I believe you can expect to work with passion, putting in fewer hours, and getting more income.

1. I have been saying for years that I want to be a full-time freelance graphic designer. My fear is the lack of a steady income and lack of health insurance. I feel as though I could feel stuck or trapped working at my job to make ends meet. I commute 80 miles round trip 4 days a week..I would love to have the freedom to work from home!

2. I'm a Baptist minister and at this point have little "extra" time. I want very much to have more time with my wife, more income, and more time for rest. I'm extremely tired, not in the best of health, and stressed out, maybe burned out. Are you able to help me?

3. How can I continue to stay in ministry and have a business of my own.

4. My family's business is closing up in July or sooner. I am concerned most about what I do next. I would love to work from home, but I am afraid of getting stuck with something that ends up costing more money than it can make for me.

5. My biggest obstacle is my family. To them unless you have a "real" job you are bound to be destitute. I just don't think I can stand the illness and strife that my "real" job is causing any more. As a single mom with 2 elementary aged children, how do I make the leap into self-employment with not only no support but ridicule as well?

6. Should I leave the current job I have even with the economy the way it is? Can I afford not to?

1. My dad recently retired from GM after 30 years. I got an idea from your podcast, so I created www.LifeAfterGM.com so he could stay in touch with old friends and discuss career ideas. What revenue generation ideas can I apply? Thanks!

2. I listened to a pod cast of you recently and you spoke about your closed meeting you have with 11 other guys on Wednesday morning. May I ask what some of those books that you used for discussion were?

3. Dan Did you have any fears when you stepped out and found the work you love? What advice do you have for those of us who have fear of the unknown or no idea what we want to do because we've done what was expected--never making a plan to fulfill our dreams and desires? What steps can one even take to figure out one's dreams and desires? Help

4. Hey Dan. I am a Software Engineer making $57,000 a year. I am considering changing my career to becoming a Fireman. The truth is I don’t belong in an office and I am passionate about helping people and being outdoors. My wife is not very happy about the option since I would be making about $30,000 a year. She is a teacher and makes $35,000 a year. Should I stay where I am and just worry about providing for my family even if it means to hate going to work everyday?

5. As a licensed architect / mother, I am interested in child development through “block play.� Playing with wooden blocks develops social skills, knowledge in the physical world and introduction to math concepts. Could a business selling blocks and writing/ illustrating children’s books (while developing seminars and articles on child development driving traffic to my web site) be a viable business?

6. Hi Dan, I would love to start my own business but I am painfully shy. So much that I am uncomfortable talking to people face to face or by phone. Are there small business opportunities for someone like me that involves little interaction with customers?

1. I have had 2 businesses of my own over the last 8 years; both did well but I sold them because they were not what I really wanted to do. I recently found your podcast and realize I need to open a business in something I’m passionate about. The only thing is the thing I’m most passionate about is sports and if had to get more specific baseball. But I cannot think of any ideas.

2. I am a school teacher and have a love for photography. I would like to start a photography business during the summer going to place of work and offering my services to take pictures of employees in action for $50/hour. The hiring company would then own the pictures. What do you think?

3. Hi Dan--I became a fan of 48 Days and No More Monday's via Dave Ramsey. Can you tell us how your Eagles reading/study group formed and how your meetings are structured? I'd like to form a similar group in the Mobile, AL area. Thanks and God Bless!

4. I am starting a consulting business which will make me pseudo-competitors with a former boss and professional associate. It has been four years, but I know she has the potential to take this negatively. Her constant “put downs� of other professionals is one reason I left the company. Do you have any advice for this situation?

5. After 25 years at FedEx, I’m looking for a job. I love old cars, drag racing, restoring them Etc...I’m 49 and scared. Where do I start?

1. I am stuck in my career. 5 years ago when I finished college all the employers I applied with told me I had no experience. Well after 5 years of working jobs to survive, I am still told I don’t have enough experience when I apply for jobs. I have changed my resume to show areas of skills but can't seem to catch a break. What else can I do?

2. I'm interested in pursuing self-employment, and I want to talk to real entrepreneurs before I make a firm commitment. How do I find these people? I grew up in a home that valued science and education - I know where to look for scientists, engineers, teachers and the like. I've spent 10 years in corporate finance, and I know how to find other bean counters. Can you please provide some suggestions about where entrepreneurs and the self employed are likely to be found?

3. My wife has recently started a transcription business. Since 1099 work is new to her (us), can you recommend any resources (web or printed material) for 1099 "dummies" in the area of self-employment taxes, deductions or other practical suggestions that I am sure we are overlooking. This business is currently supplemental income as the majority of our household earnings come from my salary as a pastor.

4. I have decided to follow my dream of being an artist. I already have plans made that includes an ebay store. At the moment my biggest problem is my own procrastination. How can I conquer this problem I'm having.

5. Why are you not using talkshoe.com or some other system to stream your show live and/or accept audience calls?

6. I am 25 and currently have a bachelor of fine arts degree with an emphasis in painting. After two years out of school I have not acquired a "real job." I currently teach yoga and work as a server. I am contemplating going back to school to become an occupational therapy assistant but I am hesitant because I am still paying back student loans from my first degree. I would enjoy the security of a 9 to 5 with benefits but in the end I just want to help people.

I began this podcast by relating the story of how a young guy here in Nashville got me to a private lunch meeting by doing something “remarkable.� Are you doing anything that is “remarkable� or are you just one more reliable, dependable, average Joe?

I also talked about how more education frequently traps people rather than giving them more options. Having a PhD., M.D., DDS, JD, DMin or whatever may reduce your perceived options for moving forward. And how making a lot of money may appear to be more limiting than if you’re broke.

And of course I answered lots of questions like these:

1. Dan, I would love to start my own business doing what I do now, but will have a 24 month non-compete once I leave. Is it foolish/selfish to quit and want to start my own business? I'm scared of two years with no/very little income.

2. I have previously read your 48 Days material and have been trying to put those ideas into motion. However the part I am getting stuck on is actually find my “passion� as I am uncertain how to get there. I do not hate my current job but would like the flexibility of time and without a cap on my salary. I sometimes think that if I was paid more I would enjoy my job more, but also understand compensation isn’t everything. What would you suggest?

3. Dan, I'm a 24 year old male on a path to something I'm passionate about: Church Planting. I’ve spent the past 2 years working for a corporate 500 company doing risk consulting and find no joy in this. What can I do to potentially generate income so I don't have to give up on this passion due to insufficient funds?

4. Hi Dan, I have just started selling a board game I created to help people learn basic computer skills. I always knew the marketing was going to be the biggest challenge but I'm not sure how to get started. The game is really targeted at Baby Boomers. You can read more about it at www.shortcut2learning.com

1. Dear Dan, I'm only seventeen but aspiring to be a writer so I was wondering if you can give me any help with publishing.

2. Dear Dan, I have a wonderful idea and its really starting off big. I am 100% sold on this idea and can visualize it. One voice is saying "I'm not organized enough" "I'm not; I'm not, etc. and the other voice saying "I don't have to be perfect - I can do it!" - but what does God want me to do?

3. How do I get straight answers as to why I'm not even getting interviews on jobs that I qualify for?

4. Hi Dan, I am a Massage Therapist and have been professionally active for about 6 years now. I want to open my own studio. Do you think I can do it with a $15,000. loan?

5. Dear Dan, I am a 47 year old male. I have a passion for motorcycles and it is something I have had since I was 7 years old but I never thought I could make a living at it. I sometimes drive up in the local dealer's parking lot but I can’t get up the nerve to go inside and ask for a job because I worry about the economy and that it might not pay well enough to keep my 2 daughters in college and after all, motorcycles are just toys for most people. I also tell myself that a hobby is one thing and a job is another. I am reading your 48 days book and just like the guy in "Chariots of Fire" I feel God's pleasure when I ride a motorcycle. Can I trust my feelings?

6. Currently I'm a 21 year old professional writing major/lawnman/ and musician. While there always seems to be lack of money in the music industry should I pursue this dream anyway? What's the best way to keep your day job while also pursuing your dream?

1. Dear Dan, I am a single mom, with two young boys. About two years ago, I completed Dave Ramsey's Financial Counselor training and have been counseling on a part-time basis since then. I love the counseling and would like this to become a full-time income. Do you have any suggestions that would give me additional and or residual income to complement the financial counseling?

2. I am 60 years old and was laid off of my job about a month ago. Are there web sites that address job for people my age. I would love to be in my own business again but I have no funds available as illness in the past few years has drained all or most of it all away.

3. Hi Dan, I graduated from Medical School over 10 years ago. I went into medicine solely for the prestige and money and have not had the motivation to complete a residency. I have been floundering for the past 12 years. I do not want to go into medicine and feel I have wasted money and time pursuing it. Please help with any advice.

4. I am 55 years old, live with my mother with no jobs prospects as I don't have a car; I have also been separated from my husband for 3 years. I would like to start an online business, but without the knowledge to make a decision I just don't know where to start. Help!

5. Dan, I am a professional sales person averaging $310k/year for the last 10 years. I love my work and the company I work for, but am interested in striking out on my own. It is hard for me to see past the income and start my own venture. I've got 10+ years of money saved, but like the security of the regular pay. Any advice?

6. I am currently ending an emotional affair with a co-worker. He became a good friend, and we were even starting a business together. My husband, counselor and I have concluded that I need a new job to help sever all ties with my affair partner. I sent a "stay far away" email to my affair partner yesterday, and it's now very uncomfortable at the office. What are your thoughts on affairs and dating at the workplace?

1. How do I find information on starting a nursing agency in GA from my home? And how do I discover what I have passion for. I have been praying on this for at least 10 years now. Thanks

2. What is the best way to get into the real estate agent business? I do not have any experience in the real estate field (currently in information technology) and don’t really know how to get started. Should I obtain a real estate license first and then contact a broker/company that I’d like to work for or vice versa?

3. Dan, Should one ever leave a job because it provides no insurance and take a job because it provides benefits even if it's a job you do well but don't fully enjoy? Any ideas?

4. I was pulled over for DUI in Nashville last November; I live in another state, and will probably be convicted. I travel in my work so loss of driver’s license will be devastating. I have been looking at doing something online but am very skeptical about things that I see. Any suggestions?

5. Could you please talk about the pros and cons of having a home office for a small business? What have your experiences been having clients in your home office? What features do you feel are essential for a functional home office?

6. My son is entering his junior year of college and still does not know what to major in or what job he wants. He loves computers. Can you tell me of some test or someone he could see to help guide him to what major he needs to take that will lead him to the job he will love?

1. Hi Dan, I’m interested in becoming a real estate agent. I love tuning into the house hunter TV show and love to help people. I thought this might be a good fit. How would you suggest getting into this field on a part-time basis without losing my day job income in this slow market? Is this a bad timing? Your show is a great encouragement. Thank you.

2. I have been running a part time long arm quilting machine business out of my home for the past 2 years. The business is completely self sufficient. Estimates come in at about $17,000 to build a free standing structure to house both quilting and sewing equipment. I made $6,000.00 profit last year from the quilting business and am booked out to July with quilts already this year. I want to dream big and build the building but reality tells me to be conservative.

3. Dan, I want to register a trademark for a unique slogan for my business. Even though the business is just starting and slow, do you think it is worth the effort? I've searched and no one else has the three word phrase I'm looking at.

4. Dan, I have identified over 30 local companies in which I would like to work. I am having a very difficult time finding the names of specific people, in my case the Purchasing/Sourcing VP or Director, so I can send my letters and resumes. I have spent many hours researching on the internet with little success. I feel stuck. Please help!

5. I am a 49 yr old female and been in the BioTech business for 20yrs. I want to spend the second half of my life doing something "I" want to do, something I'm passionate about. BUT, I have a family and I am the bread winner and NEED MORE money to live, not less.

6. Dan - I'd like to set up a board of advisors for my small business. How should I find these people, and do I somehow compensate them?

1. I have my business plan and my location already done. I need $150,000 of start up for equipment and construction. I've been advised not to take a bank loan, so where do I get the money? Please help, this really is my calling!

2. Dan, I'm a 41 year old female and have a burning desire to open a restaurant. However I have no available cash and want to apply for grants and business loans. Can you give me any advice about the grant process??

3. I want to start a "for profit" aerospace education program for grades K-12 to help spark an interest in math and science. How can I get started? Could I possibly make a legitimate income off an already strained system of education?

4. I'm a single women over 50 who was downsized out of a job I've had for 25 years. I tried for several other type jobs and no one wants to hire someone my age, or if they do, it's not much above minimum wage. How do I change careers when I don't have enough money to go back to school or invest in another type business?

5. In a previous show, you told a gentleman that you have a file that you titled Developing an Idea. Is this something that is available for purchase on your website? I’m developing a physical product for the hunting industry, and am looking to gain more insight into mass producing and marketing it.

6. Dan, I have been running a small transcription business from home for a few years now. I have a basic website and 95% of my work is done online. We are struggling financially, and following Dave Ramsey’s plan. How can I grow my business if I don't have any money to invest? Thanks

1. Over the past few years I have lost over 200lbs through a self-developed regimen. I wrote a book that is for sale on my website, www.iweighedmorethanjared.com. I would like to become a personal trainer with the niche in helping people over 150lbs overweight. Do I need to be certified? What do you suggest as far as a certification approach?

2. I have children’s stories I would like to get published. I read that it could take up to 2 years for a story to get published going through a MEGA Publisher. Can you recommend a self publisher?

3. I've heard you talk about how your son works full-time for you as an independent contractor. How can he do this and still be classified as an independent contractor by the IRS? I thought you had to have a business that was open to other clients.

4. What is the best way for someone to determine if they are truly gifted to be self-employed? Is it true that some are better suited to be employees than to be self-employed?

5. You mention a lot of times about putting a business plan together, that having one is essential. What if you truly don't have a clue how to do that? Do you have a step-by-step how-to on that?

6. Our church is fund raising parallel to the story of the servants who were given talents and returned double to the master. We were given $25 to invest for the Lord for 3 months. Ideas?

7. My husband’s miserable with his job. He’s focused on his passion and wants to transition to self-employment. We live paycheck to paycheck and don't think we can afford this. We follow Dave Ramsey. Does he need to wait until we eliminate our debt in 3 years to transition or is there something he can do now?

On this I address a special theme with my blogging coach Bill Seaver. I started a blog with the release of No More Mondays. Rather than learning slowly about this powerful new way to promote and communicate, I contracted with a blog coach to get me up to speed quickly on www.NoMoreMondaysblog.com

In this podcast I ask Bill questions like:

Why should anyone care about blogging?
How can a person use new media tools to promote what they do?
Who are a couple of common people you’ve seen this work for?
How does someone begin their own blog?
How can listeners get more information?

1. I know what I want to do. I have a plan...I don't have time to work on it. This is not an "excuse"...this is reality. I work a 50-60 week, two teenage kids, heavily involved in church, elderly family issues, trying to find the job I love, and start my own business. I am up at 4:30AM, leave for work before 7:00AM, and get home well after 6PM to start my next job. I really would like to leave the job I am in, and concentrate on the work I love. A leap of faith to speak. Please advise.

2. I'm a nurse of 20years who has worked every area (almost) of the healthcare industry. It has always been something to pay the bills. My passion is in the technology industry, but I’m unsure how to get in the door without further schooling. I know there is an industry with healthcare and technology together, but most are looking for experience.

3. I am a teacher ready to throw in the towel. I read 48 days book, and am having trouble unsticking myself from the idea that I am only good for teaching. I know that I have skills in planning, organizing, managing, collaborating, and teaching, but how do I make these translate to fields other than education? Any ideas?

4. I'm thinking of pursing a franchise opportunity with Chick-fil-a. It's not the traditional franchise model...only a $5,000 investment, but you must be an operator. I'm 46 years old single, with a pretty good job, but I'm bored and am struggling to identify my true passion.

5. Could you explain what Freelancing is? I am a musician, I want to write inspirational books, and I enjoy speaking as some of my interests. I love inspiring! Are these areas of potential freelancing? Also, would you touch on the differences between being confident and positive vs. being overly optimistic and unrealistic?

6. Dan, I'm a Realtor in Michigan for over 30 years, I need help. I try to stay positive, but with no income, I'm looking for another job, At 61 I am having a hard time. I have faxed, e-mailed, interviewed until I could cry.

I begin by talking about the Venn Diagram model of business that I use – and how that may help you see multiple streams of income in whatever you are doing.

Then I discuss this first question at length: Can I be in “ministry� and still expect to make significant money? (Incidentally, my answer is a resounding “Yes.�)

1. Dan, I often hear you talk about how it is possible to earn more money than imagined by following your vocation first, followed by career then job. How does this earning more money philosophy fit for pastors and other ministry related professionals?

2. Dan, Should I put the price of my coaching services on my website and why or why not.

3. My daughter is 13 yrs. old going into high school in the fall. Her class is the first class required to pick a major. How can I best help her?

4. In light of today's economic climate, what are the best products to sell, or businesses that will best serve people's needs?

5. Dan, I have been a Realtor for the last sixteen years. I have almost always been self-employed and find it nerve-wracking to go out and look for a J O B as my wife insists. Any thoughts on where I might turn for encouragement and what else I might be good at?

6. I’ve heard you talk about “risk reversal.� What is that and how can it be used in business?

I began this podcast with a 15 minute tirade about MLM companies. Yes, they are a hot potato issue – lots of negatives and some positives -- but the real issue is whether the business model is a fit for you. Listen for my explanations about how to evaluate any business idea.

And then these questions:

1. Yesterday, my boss pulled me into her office and asked if I really disliked my job. I didn't realize I was showing how much I hate this job. I was given the option of searching for a job while I work for a month, but I feel like this is rather risky.

2. I'm a women over 50...how do I get my foot in the door once they see my resume and deduct that I'm at least over 40 and possibly 50? I'm in shape, take care of myself and could sell myself better in person .....it's just getting that initial interview!!!!

3. Dan I'm a 45 year old male with 15 of experience as a web/graphic designer. I bought your book and one of your courses, got fired up cashed in my 401k and left my corporate job. Six months later I'm broke and don't have any money to pay my bills. My wife is not happy and this is not the first time I try to go on my own. Now I dread just getting a job.

4. I am a bank vice president with an MBA in finance and years of experience. I am interested in teaching finance/business classes online. What steps do I take?

5. Is it ever ok to quit a job without having another one lined up? I started a new job recently and dislike it intensely but have little time off to interview.

1. My husband started two businesses, for which I am bookkeeper by default. I detest it, it isn’t me.

2. My gift is gab. I'd like to become a professional speaker, but is talent enough? How do I turn talking about nothing into a living?

3. I am currently in a job and soon to graduate from the local community college. I am feeling guilty and not sure how to let my boss know. Do I wait until I have a job or let him know I am looking?

4. Hi Dan, I was brought up hearing that if you make your hobby your fulltime job you would get tired of it and wouldn't enjoy your hobby anymore.

5. Recently, I opened up a tackle shop on the internet called fishingtrail.com. Can you give some advice on how I can advertise it on a limited budget?

6. Dan, I am carefully planning a way to generate my own income. I want my wife to be involved as much as I in the decision making. yet, she is so scared of risk, she would rather live paycheck to paycheck with me working for an employer with 'benefits' than to invest time developing a long term plan with risk involved.

This week instead of answering questions I did a chapter by chapter overview of No More Mondays.

You’ll hear my comments from: Chapter One – Don’t Be “Stupid� – be careful of repetitive, predictable work.

Chapter Two – Let Your Life Speak – each of us has a “calling.� Do you know yours?

Chapter Three – Who’s Making Your Lunch Today? The importance of accepting responsibility for where you are.

Chapter Four – Don’t Wait for the Wizard – Don’t wait for God to hand you the life you want.

Chapter Five – Donald’s Not Coming – Fire Yourself – Would you apply for the same job you have now?

Chapter Six – Secure or Imprisoned? Sometimes we confuse loyalty with burying our head in the sand and missing opportunities.

Chapter Seven –But You Owe Me – Don’t expect to be paid for your “time.� Only results count.

Chapter Eight – Finding Work That Fits – When you recognize your marketable skills you see the possibilities for having five or six “customers� rather than just one.

Chapter Nine – One Place Forever – Blessing or Curse? -- Change is inevitable. Our only choice is how we will respond.

Chapter Ten – Throw out your TV – Don’t blind yourself to new ideas and opportunities all around us.

Chapter Eleven – No Money – No Problem! -- Is it really possible to make a lot of money without working for a big company?

Chapter Twelve – Living With Passion, Purpose & Profit – Don’t worry about “recessions� and “economic downturns.� Those have very little to do with your success. Your future is not determined by what’s happening in the White House – it’s determined by what’s happening in YOUR house.

I start this show by talking about how you can “earn� a free 48 Days Seminar Package ($649) by being a facilitator in your company or church.

1. I hate my job so much it depresses me. I feel trapped and my attitude at work is costing me opportunities. I try very hard to not think negatively. I need my income but I want out BADLY. I am not good a making friends and would rather work in a position that I could work at alone, any suggestions?

2. Married, 42, kids are grown, and debt free except for the house. I make $70K, together we make $130k.. I am working on BA in Business Administration. I am MISERABLE and tired of working for someone else. I want my own business. I don't know what my calling is and don’t know how to find it or where to start.

3. Hello Mr. Miller, I find myself not reading your emails that come to my email account weekly because it forces me to think about how I really need to step out on faith and start living my dream. I am going to start my own business in 2008, so I need to know if I need a Business Plan to start my business. I have two ideas…………..

4. I'm self-employed. That's the good news. The bad news is I really dread what I do. I've had two career paths evaporate from under me due to market conditions and company closures, so I went into business for myself. Now I'm faced with long days, customers who won't pay on time or at all, and I'm physically worn out from performing the work. This is NOT what is supposed to happen. HELP!!!

5. I would like to start submitting articles I write to magazines/newspapers for publishing. What do I do to protect the content of my work and make sure I get paid for it?

6. Hi Dan, After listening to your podcast I've built up my courage to pursue my dream career - illustrating celebrities! At the moment I am working in a stressful atmosphere, doing administration in an auction house. I am eager to quit as soon as possible because it is so depressing, but I don't want to jeopardize my financial stability while I pursue freelance illustration. What do you suggest I do? Thank you,

1. What is the best resource for a stay at home mom who has home schooled children for the past 28 years to determine direction for a career after an unwanted divorce? I have no formal education past high school.

2. I've been looking for a new job for 3 months now and trying to slowly read your book "48 Days..." but I realize what I love to do is sing and play guitar and write songs and poetry. How can I make a career out of a vocation?

3. I've recently been given an assignment by a mentor to develop my own "Theology of Work" (i.e. God's purpose for having us work). He recommended I read Dorothy Sayers essay entitled “Why Work� and “The Call� by Os Guinness. 1. Would you recommend these materials? 2. What do you believe God’s purpose for human work is?

4. I'm in a job I hate, with a 40-mile one-way commute. I want to get a better job, but I need a degree (which I can't afford because I'm in so much debt). How can I get a better job when I need the education that I can't afford without the better job?

5. I am a graphic designer. I have two questions. The first is, as a graphic designer should I send samples of my work with the resume or wait until an interview? The second is, should I use a functional resume instead of a chronological one since I graduated April 2007 and don’t have much experience?

6. I am a 37 year old pharmacist and co-owner of an independent pharmacy. I make a comfortable living, but dislike my job due to insurance and the hectic pace. I have been in and around pharmacy my entire life, and feel trapped in my current situation. Any suggestions?

1. I am a graphic designer with 43 years experience. I have operated my business for 15 years servicing local printing companies’ needs. Because of the availability of computers and programs to non-professionals, there has been a downturn in the need for my services. What avenues would you suggest to build my business back up, that would utilize my extensive skills?

2. What do you do when you've taken work because you needed an income, but have added no new skills to your resume in years? I moved to a new city- couldn't find a job in my field (television) and have been trapped in administrative/ retail hell for 4.5 years. Work 2 jobs to make ends meet, but am getting nowhere.

3. I make 140k per year. I will be eligible to retire in 7yrs (@age 46). I am completely bored and unchallenged. I have no debt except my 500K house. Should I just bite the bullet and wait until I retire to find something else or lose my retirement and pursue my interest in the construction real estate industry?

4. I have been a licensed Real Estate Agent for over 3 years, and this is the worst year. Our local market is nothing near the panic that is advertised locally, but I still have a hard time getting leads, and then getting them to list or buy with me once they come in. Any suggestions? (I can't afford a personal coach right now.)

5. My husband works for his brother. He doesn't mind the work, but doesn't agree with the way the company is run and worries about the future of the company. My husband is well paid for our area and we can't afford a pay cut at this time. We fear causing family problems if he leaves. What would you suggest?

6. I have lost touch with what is really interesting. In childhood through adulthood I developed a bad habit of suppressing my interests to do what I thought was right, because I thought my interests were "lusts of the flesh" or "loving this world." How do I start over to learn what my real God-given passions are?

1. Do you think it is a good idea to move to improve your quality of life? My husband and I have lived in southern California all our lives. We have a huge mortgage on a tiny house and everything is so crowded here. The only drawback is that most of our extended family is here. What do you think?

2. My husband works for the government. Need I go any further? Anyway, he has a relatively successful job as a manager, making good money with great benefits. There are some parts of his job that he enjoys doing, but the other parts are unbearable. He won't look for anything else because of the benefits--retirement, time-off--and feels he can "start his life" after he retires at around age 55. What would you recommend?

3. I am 53 and have been in the residential construction & remodeling business for 25 years. I'm in the red because of economy slow down & family health cost. I want to go to work in a company that I can use my years of experience to advantage them & myself. I will have bills that will stay with me for being so far behind so I have to look at a position with a salary to support both a living & debt recovery. I've not looked for a job in a long time -- so what do I do to change my life?

4. I am interested in expanding my ministry. I already have a website, but I want to start a podcast that has my sermons and music on it. I want to do a weekly newsletter to pastors and encourage them to catch my podcast. I've looked at podcast sites to help me start this, but I like your format. Can you recommend me to the people I need to talk with?

5. I took your advice and sent an email to a company I was interested in. I simply told them about myself and asked them what I would need to do to get into their field. In 37hrs and 8 minutes I had received a job offer for my dream job, and it was one of those jobs in the hidden job market you speak of. Your technique really works. Thank you so much!!! And praise God!!!

1. I'm reasonably happy in my job, however I feel somewhat limited. In order to advance to the top of my particular field, a Master's Degree is required. I already have $10,000 in student loans from my bachelor's degree, and don't feel comfortable taking out another loan to go to school. I'm considering changing careers or perhaps changing roles and staying in my industry, but something still seems amiss. Ultimately, I feel that I am not maximizing my gifts. Do you have any suggestions?

2. Dan, I want to start a small part-time business with my brother, he is into music and is very creative when it comes to designs but, I’m into fitness and working out, football and movies; what would you suggest that we do?

3. I was very excited about the 48 days book but was a little disappointed after I finished it. I have never been able to determine what my calling is or even the best job or career for me. I could not settle on a degree in college for the same reason and ended up with liberal arts degree ten years ago. ….I feel stuck because my experience is in one field. The 48 days book seems to be very helpful giving direction to someone who has at least a small idea where they are going. This isn't me. …Did I miss something in the book or am I just going to have to settle with something that pays the bills?

4. Dear Solomon…How and where in the world do you find the wisdom to answer all of these situations for these people desperate in changing their lives? Solomon asked for wisdom from God and was blessed with it in abundance…so much that he accumulated more wealth than any human being could imagine. Dan…being a clinical psychologist is one thing but being able to map out a career strategy for these individuals is mind boggling…especially since the majority of them have no idea what they want to be or do in their lives. How do you do it?????

5. I wanted to get your opinion on a company I have recently come across. It is YTB Travel it is a multi level marketing company and online travel agency. I was involved in other MLM's with not much success, but nothing like the compensation packages YTB has. Could you please give me any direction to go good or bad. I really appreciate your time.

6. Just this week I bought and listened to your Write to the Bank. I think it is wonderful, BUT I am a 61 year old former elementary teacher with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia for 23 years now. …I used to be a creative and high energy person. All that I retain of that oomph is my mind now. ….I'm burned out but need to latch on to something quickly to use my Master's in Counseling, moderate writing ability and life experience to turn my life around financially. Any truly practical ideas for a desperate situation??

1. I'm an educator and love my job. However, I'm interested in creating more income for myself and my family for vacations and other expenses. I'm looking at starting an internet bookstore what will cater to teachers and leaders. I'm wondering if this market is saturated with larger bookstores? Any suggestions would be welcomed.

2. Can you recommend any resources to get some inventions I have patented or secured? I just saw an idea I thought of several years ago on the news last night and it made me sick that I didn't pursue the idea when it came to me. I have many more ideas that come to me often and I need to follow through with these ideas that God has blessed me with.

3. I recently interviewed for and was accepted for an outside sales position. I have been in outside sales for over 20 years. However, once I was on board, I decided quite quickly I did not like the assignment. In August, I interviewed for and accepted another assignment and am not happy with it either. The pay is awesome, but the product is only marketable to a very few people. How do I break this pattern of not liking an assignment once I am in it. I love outside sales, but have been unable to find an assignment where I can stay interested for more than 4 years.

4. As we get closer to 2008 I am in the process of assessing goals. While I enjoy what I do, my ultimate goal is to be free from the grind of the 9-5 job & use my day as I want. Would you recommend I start a freelance business or simply do part time work in sales to make extra money? Is there another way to make money you'd recommend? My concern is that my regular job is my #1 priority so the hours when I could contact clients is severely limited until after 5.

5. With so many application processes being automated many are having to fill in the information about past salary or salary history. Sometimes these fields can not be left blank. As is taught in 48 Days we do not want to discuss salary in the early stages. What is one to do?

6. At my job we are doing end of the year self evaluations. This is my first year in the job and I feel that I have learned a lot in that time. Management's question is open ended, it's simply "look at your objectives for the year and assess how well you met them". How do I do this without sounding cocky, or without sounding like I'm coming down on some of my less ambitious co-workers.

1. In September, I started a web-site related to hunting and the outdoors. I'm at a point where I need to expand my product offerings by spending $500 (minimum wholesale order). My only hang up is I have not made any money yet and here I am spending more money. Any thoughts on deciding how much is too much to spend before you know your business will be profitable?

2. I have 6 kids and my husband's business is struggling. He says that if I will work front desk, we can save 30 to 40 grand a year, plus the business will do better because I really care about it and I'm a people person. I already bake bread, sew and clean, make all the dinners from scratch and take the kids to all of their activities, help with homework and teach a teenage girl bible study class at church--plus activities during the week. What do I do??? I don't know if I can handle it all, although I really love working front desk.

3. Dan, my husband took a in Fl in Feb this year. Now, this company wants us to move to Arizona. We don't know when, we just know it will probably be in the next 2 months. We are tired of moving. We took this job because our family is here in Fl. Dan, we don't want to move. But, we don't want to make a big mistake and leave this job either. The tension in this house is as thick. Our 14 year old doesn't want to move again. I don't want to move. But, I don't want my husband to give up a job he loves for me then we suffer later for it. Dan HELP. We are stuck.

4. Just thought you'd like to know that, doing what I love, my gross sales increased 49% this year to over 104K (and the year isn't over yet), gross profits are up 69%, and net income is up 241%. All with a 7 second commute. It can be done. Find something you love and, although you will be working all the time, you will never "work" again. Thanks for the encouragement. I have much to be thankful for.
(I describe what Jim Hodges does for a living.)

5. I'm a married woman with a husband that's been on disability for the last 3 years. He gets a disability check, but that goes right to rent, leaving my paycheck as the sole source of income. We just had an increase in our rent & are now starting to have problems making our other bill payments. I need to find a way to generate income quickly so we can start getting some of our payments down on our credit cards and keeping our loan payments current. What do you suggest?

6. I have re-structured my resume in a functional format and created a new cover letter. However, I would like to know, what is more appropriate in sending these documents, (fax, email, postal mail, or in-person)?

7. I am a 44 year old and I have been attending college part-time working towards a degree in police science. Even though it is my dream to work in law enforcement, I feel my age has become a factor and maybe I should reconsider this decision. I would like your opinion before I devote any more time or money pursuing a career that isn’t age appropriate.

Here are a few of the questions answered in this 48-minute podcast:

1. I read your book and I'm glad I did. On Oct. 25th I lost my job of over 17 years (it was a low pay 'only $9.30 an hr.' go no where job as a uniformed security officer) and after trying to dispute the termination the company let me go anyway. So now I'm waiting to hear from unemployment? Any advice, suggestions or guidance would be greatly appreciated.

2. Thank you for all you do. I enjoy and look forward to getting your newsletter each week. How do I find my purpose? I'm just average and don't have any special skills. I've worked in an office my whole adult life doing a variety of things from billing to accounting assistance.

3. I enrolled full time at the local university and I am loving going to school. I lost my job recently due to downsizing. When I did have to go to work from 8-6 M-F it was very difficult with my full-time school schedule. Do you have ideas of how I can generate income to support my family while I'm going to school that will allow for more flexibility?

4. My 10 year-old daughter is a very talented writer, by her teacher's consensus. She has currently written about 4-5 children's aged books and would like to have them seen to see if they are good enough for publication. How should we proceed?

5. What are your overall opinions of MLM businesses? We all know people who have been scammed by these business and have lost of lot of money along with destroying relationships. Do you think MLM business are a legitimate way to go into business for yourself and to make an honest living?

I begin this podcast talking about how to get a jump-start on your goals for 2008.

And here are a few of the questions addressed in this 48-minute broadcast:

1. Any idea as to what the future looks like for a self employed Search Engine Optimization specialist? I love learning about how to get a website to reach the first page of the search engines such as Google. I’m in love with the process but wonder if I will get frustrated with the complexity of the work trying to obtain results when the rules are always changing in the industry.

2. In a show earlier this year you mentioned how you were able to get contracts with companies to offer 3-hour workshops at $3,500 per workshop. I have developed several workshops over the years, and have two that I could offer to corporations. How do I break into this market?

3. I'm a single mom of 2, and sole provider. I am a massage therapist hardly making enough to keep us going. I would love to open my own business, like a coffee shop, but I have no money to invest. I have been looking in to the coffee franchise business, but that would take $75,000.00 cash investment and $25,000.00 franchise fee. Is there any way I could get a loan for that kind of money even though I have no collateral?

4. Dan, I have been fighting battles in my life for several years and I am so tired I just want to say what the Hell and just give up on everything, what’s so bad about all this and I say this in ALL honesty , my problems have come from the back stabbing and lies of other people. I won’t list all that’s happened to me, it would take to much time. I want to have a internet business of my on so bad but every time I start one it goes no where, I have tried some that were suppose to be good but still nothing happens, no income from them. WHAT am I doing wrong? Or am I just doomed to fail? That’s the way it looks.

5. I recently sold a business that I purchased in 2001. In my cover letter and resume I want to stress the “on the job� masters degree I believe I have earned from the “school of hard knocks� but am not sure how best to state this. Can you give me a one or two sentence suggestion?

1. I recently read a book called, “The Five Lessons a Millionaire Taught Me,� by Richard Paul Evans. I found the website for the book, www.thefivelessons.com where the author advertises for his brain-child; a home-based, MLM business called BookWise. I am excited, yet reluctant to “jump into� this business opportunity. The catch is that it costs $39.95 to get started and $35/month, thereafter. Do you have any thoughts or advice in regards to this opportunity?

2. I feel stuck. I am 43- halfway through my professional career. My kids are almost grown, and I feel I am ready to start pounding on the second half of my career. I have an enjoyable, decent paying job. But I don't see working for someone as a way to bigger and better things. I am searching for opportunities to enhance our income, and maybe grow into something bigger. The catch-22 is that I can't really devote time into making something big happen because I still have to take care of my career, but nothing big will happen unless I can devote the time. Short of having two careers running simultaneously, how can I build dreams into something concrete?

3. I love to speak on careers and personal finance. I am speaking at The University of Mobile on Nov. 8th at a seminar on preparing for graduation. I am focusing on the topic "The top things that I wish I knew when I graduated." I would be grateful if you had any recommendations regarding resources or handouts that would be useful at the seminar.

4. I know what I’m good at—coaching and organization. I love to coach people to success in their supporting roles—particular churches. Two dilemma’s I am facing—How do I market my services effectively to a market that has never had coaching for their staff? How do I build a business in a rural area of self-sufficient people?

5. If I have a lot of debt and have been renting for a long time, do you think that having good credit would help me to get an investment home to help my situation somehow...???
Thanks, I appreciate your advice; I am a single mom.

6. I currently work for a small ISP. I am technically the only employee (we contract all other work out). I have been trying to think of a way to continue with this company yet utilize my time during the day to do other business of my own as well. Should I contract my services out to them as a self-employed individual -- or would it be appropriate to be an employee doing a "Results Only Work Environment" thing?

I began this broadcast by talking about how time with my granddaughter in the mornings is not wasted time away from work, but rather time to see things from a new perspective and to have my creativity increased. Then I come back to work with new ideas and solutions.

Here are some questions addressed in this week’s podcast:

1. I admit I am living Groundhogs Day and I am miserable, however I feel so drained most of the time that the thought of sending this e-mail was exhausting. When you have been down so long that it has completely drained you physically what do you do? People say 'pull yourself up by your bootstraps' but frankly I'm too tired. The thought of starting over makes me feel even more tired and overwhelmed...help?

2. I’m separated, 50, just bought my own home and have a good job in an office but my passion is elsewhere. I’d like to incorporate my love of jewelry making into a full time job but I’m one of those people who live pay check to pay check. How do I make the transition to my passion?

3. I worked as a teacher in a private Christian school for fifteen years and my husband and I raised two wonderful and respectful children. I left the school last year (to possibly switch careers) and I have a desire to help/assist parents and caregivers to train up children in a Godly and moral way. Challenge: How and where to start?

4. Four months ago, I was laid off from my job hosting the morning show at a country music radio station. I love radio. I had been in the field for 22 years. Radio has changed so much since I started. Being on the air, entertaining the listeners, sharing the things they need to know to get through the day, was all I ever wanted to do. It's what I would rather do, but I'm not sure it's possible anymore. Where do I go from here?

5. I am currently still employed by a company where I've been for 9 years. The pay is very low, I just somehow got stuck, thinking things would get better, paywise, but it never did get better. My question is, should I bother, at this point, to try to negotiate for higher wages, since I'm planning to move on to something else as soon as I can, and if so, how is the best way to go about negotiating for a better wage?

6. Over the years and listening to your show this week, I have been able to piece some of your work history together. However, I would love for you to give a timeline of your educational history, career successes and failures. It would be great to see how and when events occurred in your career. I find it inspiring to see how people such as you and Dave Ramsey have become successful, failed and then kept hope and succeeded again (on a much grander scale).

I am returning to the work force and have a question regarding my resume. For the past ten years I have stayed at home to raise and help educate our son. How do I cover the past ten years where I had no employer?-----I am currently 55 years and am struggling to change careers. Four years ago I got the photography bug. I had been praying for years that God would put a new interest or guide me to do something I really love. I believe this is my answer. My biggest problem is promoting myself. Can you give me some suggestions on how I can get my photography business really off the ground?----- Dan I read your article of someone that earns $35,000/yr and has $275,000 in college debt. I have a bachelor's in biology and I have started a master's degree in teacher education, public health - toxicology, and public health - health care org. I plan to pursue my masters in social work and my doctorate in counseling psychology. I have 50, 000 in debt and I want to want these degrees, but if you have another suggestion can you help me out.-----I have gone through the process of finding out what I would love to do. Now to figure out how to make a living at it. I believe I am meant to preserve and restoring historic buildings. I love the feel of them and love museums and restoring other old things. I have little experience in actual construction, other than doing my own work on things, but have worked in the insurance industry around contractors for 30 years and am not a complete dummy. I am thinking of retiring from a job that I hate in April of next year and will have a moderate income by doing so. Are you willing to give me some suggestions for making the transition to this end?-----How do I answer questions about my current salary? I've been asked outright during an interview, and recently, when I was applying online with a company, one of the questions asked my current salary. I'm afraid if I state my current salary (of $57,000) that the company with which I'm applying will offer me a similar salary. I'd like to move up in salary with my next job.----- A few years ago I presented an idea to a couple of friends, but we never really developed the idea or the company. I'm thinking about fully developing it now. There was no formal paper work or anything. I want to be fair. How much percentage if anything should I offer them in the new company?

And this ends with a great golf story -- that displays an important life principle. "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he."

How do I find a reputable home business? My job will be ending at the end of December.----- I am in an industry that doesn't motivate me and I hate getting up in the morning. I recently decided to completely change my career and I'm in the process of learning decorating. However, I'm at a road block because it's hard to get started. Do you have any suggestions for me?----- Dan, I read in your newsletter about one of our obstacles being that we are trapped with no choices. What if that really is the truth? I'm 48, single mom of 3 teens and sole provider. I barely make enough to pay the bills. Although I'm very good at my job -- I really hate it. ……. What would you do?-----I have a garnishment because of a medical debt. I would like to move on but I am afraid that I cannot get a job elsewhere because of the garnishment. What do I say to a new employer?
-----How do I know that what I really need is a new career rather than just a change in attitude?-----I have been out of work for 5 months now. My wife and I and our 3 kids live in a small town pop. 242. I have been looking for a business I could run from my home, and I believe I have found it. Although, to buy the business will take about $200,000.00. Now I have run out of savings, my credit is shot, what can a do?

Here are some questions answered in this 48-minute broadcast:
-----I’m 51 yrs young – I search for jobs daily, I get maybe two interviews a month and no offers? I pray daily for God to guide me to a new career and maybe I am missing His answer to me? Dan, I have tried all kinds of companies, looking where I can use the skills I've learned towards their needs, and no luck! What am I doing wrong? I am on foodstamps too and that is about to go away this next month.-----I am in a 4 year old partnership, 5 people in all, that runs a restaurant. In the 4 years, we have averaged losing $50,000 to $60,000 per year. My best friend and I didn’t talk for over a year. My brother and I haven’t talked for 2 years. There is great tension between all 5 existing partners. I can’t sleep at night trying to figure out how to end this nightmare, not just for me but for all involved.-----What is your opinion of the financial viability of ebooks and ezines? I see a lot of hype on the internet about them, but I wonder how much IS hype and what is realistic.-----I am a professional interviewer going on interviews to jobs I really don't want. I find myself lost inside myself. I want to move to a whole different city and state thinking that might be the answer. What is the answer?----- Dan, I am 67 years old, full of energy and need to do something constructive everyday just to make me feel good about the day. I would love to go back to work in sales, a field which I have spent 30 years. I have been denied a chance after 2 tries. I think it is because of my age. How can I get over that hump?

Here are some questions answered in this 48-minute broadcast:

1. Hi Dan. I am currently going through a process to become a financial advisor for one of the major financial institution. This is a sales job, and I need some advice on how I can be a great sales person.

2. When I apply for jobs, I never hear back from the company. Am I getting bad references from previous employers? Not sure what I'm doing wrong. Any advice?

3. How would I go about becoming a specialty (disease) coach? My son has a disease that can only be "cured" by diet and I have learned so much about it that I feel I could help others stay above water if I could connect with them. How do you make yourself marketable, what qualifies you to teach others, what would you charge, how do you get your name out there?

4. Dan, I have started to do independent consulting for a single client full-time. I am interested in marketing myself and others with my background of accounting, finance, and information systems as well as to license software I have created in MS Access. My questions are: When is a good time to incorporate and what should I consider as important criterion?

5. I am interested in starting a gourmet food preparation business. How do I choose the best franchise?

Here are some questions answered in this 48-minute broadcast:

1. What should I do when I keep asking and believing for good things, but continue to have disasters in my life?

2. How do I get a publisher for my instructional book and CD that I’m already selling well?

3. With fewer and fewer jobs matching the rising cost of living, how do I find one that pays what I need to live on ($65K+)?

4. I’m 48 years old and stuck in a dead-end job where I’m not using my skills and abilities. My wife says it’s too late and I’m too old to start a new career. I don’t know what to do.

-Five Fatal Flaws in Interviewing
-Does a Copyright symbol on an audio CD protect me?
-Can I take images from the public domain and copyright them in my quilt designs?
-How can I interview well with a hiring manager who is Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh?
-How can I get my book published?
-Am I safe in buying a franchise?
-What are some tips for negotiating a great compensation package?
-How can I be a professional "counselor" without having a graduate degree?

Important and exciting news about the future of the '48 Days' broadcast!

Hour 1

The importance of having a lot of ideas

*Announcement about the future of "48 Days to the Work You Love"*

Caller- I want to start my own business and do it in Ireland. Am I crazy, or is this a good idea?

Are you working just for money?

The shift in the medium for delivery of information.

Hour 2

Is Good the enemy of your Best?

Caller- How much effort, money, time, etc. do I need to put in to co-writing a book?

Caller- Is there a test or survey I can take to discover where my career strengths are?

Caller- Help with building a membership site.

Caller- I want to create a business out of building with European architectural influences. Any suggestions?

Create a business out of what you do for fun!

Hour 3

More information regarding the changes coming to '48 Days'

Caller- You can work hard and gain the ability to do anything. Your success will follow your passion. My business is improving, but I find that, financially, my success isn't showing. What can I do?

Caller- The market for my business is expanding. How do I advertise and get the word out to this new market?

Caller- A great marketing idea for the previous caller.

Caller- I love Tim's new book! How do I find out if I'm cut out to be a coach?

Hour 1

Infomercials Galore!

Caller- Organizing a family business

Become a millionaire for only $19.95!

Caller- A '48 Days' success story

Caller- An infomercial success story

Working for passion and not just for profit

Caller- I need help figuring out what my calling is.

Hour 2

Caller- I've been interning in a great industry, but can't seem to find an actual job. Is it time to call it quits on this field?

Caller- An idea for a great business opportunity!

Caller- I'm ready to start an online business in my area of expertise. Where do I start?

Email- A followup question from a previous pen-making listener

Hour 3

The way people become millionaires in America

Caller- I'm about to retire, and would like to pick up some reading and possibly start a new chapter in my career. Any suggestions?

Caller- I'm going back to school to start a career in my true calling, but I keep getting frustrated with school. I need some encouragement.

Creating residual income instead of linear income

Hour 1

Dan's off tonight, so Tim and good friend Paul Finley field your questions and talk small business.

Tim discusses his recent book signing.

How do you know if owning a business is right for you?

Caller- How do I transition from ministry to working in the corporate world?

Caller- How do I know if enough people are interested in my idea to make a business out of it?

Caller- I have a great job with great benefits, but I'm bored. Help!

Caller- Any information about the National Association of the Self-Employed?

Unhappy rich executives

Caller- I hand craft pens. I need help with a web-marketing strategy.

Hour 2

Caller- I was hired by a failing company. I'm ready to go back to school, but I don't know what degree to pursue now.

The importance of sales to entrepreneurs

Tim does his best Dan Miller impersonation

Caller- Email newsletter management

Caller- I have bad credit, how do I manage that in an interview and job situation?

Caller- Marketing tips for a personal finance coaching business.

Hour 3

Chuck Bowen joins Tim and Paul to discuss the emerging business of coaching

Caller- I own a trucking business. My business is growing, but I don't know if my business is on its way up or down.

Caller- I'm looking to start a DJ business. How should I start?

Hour 1

Do we really need to work 40 hours a week to get everything done?

Meetings- Just a waste of time?

Email- I've applied online for a job, but haven't heard from the employer. What next?

Are you a Mark Twain?

Caller- I want to sell my personal story to a writer for a movie or a book. How do I find the right people?

Email- Is it wise to take an early retirement or wait it out and get a larger retirement in seven years?

Caller- A newspaper wants to use a picture from my website. How do I make sure my website gets promoted from the use of the picture?

Email- Are there any ways to compare salaries of employees to salaries of the self-employed?

Hour 2

Caller- I have a physical limitation that may prevent me from going back to my former career. How can I find something that I can do from home that isn't a scam?

Caller- How do I capitalize on the fact that I'm bilingual to develop a niche for myself?

Email- I have two radically different career choices in front of me. Which direction do I go?

Email- I'd like to start my own business and know I could be successful. How do I provide for my family while the business ramps up?

Is it OK to use credit to fund a business?

Caller- I want to start a relationship coaching business. Any general advice?

Hour 3

Email- Help! They're bringing in consultants and I have to interview again for my job after 29 years. What can I do to keep my job?

Email- I love my job, but am annoyed by the poor performance of another employee. What can I do?

Email- I'm trying to start a private label cosmetic company. I'm having trouble getting into retail stores. What should I do?

Caller- I want to start a cemetery. How can I find land and buy it at a low price?

Do you want to start a business, but don't want to invest any money?

Email- How do I set up a network for unemployed people to help each other find work?

Email- I was just fired after 3 weeks on the job. How can I find work quick?

Caller- The schmoozers get promoted and the workers get the shaft.

Hour 1

We're now into the second half of 2007. Are you half way home on your goals for this year?

Lunch with Warren Buffett for $650,100

Caller- How do I get started with my idea for an invention?

Caller- When is it time to quit a job with good money and move to work I love and take a pay cut?

Caller- I feel stuck in my job! Help!

Hour 2

Dan shares a creative marketing anecdote about a good friend

Do you need to to change your email address or MySpace profile?

Caller- I have an idea for an invention that is an improvement on an existing product. What should my first steps be?

Do you ever watch TV and see an ad for a new invention and slap yourself in the forehead and say "I thought of that!"?

Caller- I'd like to get into a new line of work, but I spend all of my time working at my current job. What can I do?

Caller- At 52, how do I start a search for a new career?

Hour 3

Email- How do I find out if a book has been written with a specific title?

Caller- Another '48 Days' success story!

Caller- How do I keep my current field of work from preventing me from finding work in another field?

Caller- I want to be a career coach or a life coach. What training is the best?

Caller- I'm meeting with other inventors to discuss my invention. Do I need to bother with non-disclosure agreements?

Caller- My business has been stagnant for about 17 years. It needs a pick-me-up. What can I do to reach potential customers?

Caller- I have a song that I'd like to sell online. Any tips?

What do you say in an interview when you are asked "Why did you leave your last job"?

Caller- What are some alternative marketing methods for promoting my product?

Hour 1

We've reached the halfway point in the year. Time to take a fresh look at our goals.

Tim's book is doing well!

Caller- Email newsletter formatting- Which way is the best?

Email- How do I get better at communicating in the workplace?

Caller- An update on starting my own business. Thanks Dan and Tim!!!

Over 680,000 downloads of the podcast last month!

Email- My age is starting to keep me from doing the work I love right now. What can I do to prepare for the day when I physically can't do it anymore?

Caller- I'm interested in so much! What can I do to narrow my focus?

Hour 2

Caller- My employer is in financial trouble. What can I do?

Caller- Online viral marketing for websites.

Email- Do I take a sure-thing job which pays less than I want, or take a risk on the possibility of a better job?

Article- Nearly 60% of hiring managers leave room for negotiating in their initial offers to employees.

Email- How do I create an email newsletter?

Caller- How do I handle a change in environment that comes along with a career change?

Are Dan and Tim working on a Sunday?

Email- My income is totally dependent on the weather. How do I deal with the "instability" of my income?

Hour 3

Delphi is offering buyouts to employees to avoid bankruptcy

Caller- Another 48 Days success story

Caller- Dog nursing homes!

Article- Can 10 years make a difference when starting your own business?

Caller- I'm burned out working 90 hours per week! I have an idea for what I really want to do. Any guidance or suggestions?

Caller- I"m starting a "people" business, but I'm not too great with people. How can I make this business succeed?

Hour 1

Happy Fathers Day!

We're almost halfway through 2007. How far along are you with your goals for this year?

Email- I'm having trouble finding one passion to focus on. Any suggestions?

Caller- I sent out 500 resumes and no job offers. What's going wrong?

Email- I'm being moved within my company but feel exploited because there hasn't been any discussion of changes in compensation or working arrangements.

Hour 2

Are you trapped by a high income?

Tim's new book is coming out soon!

Tim has been able to leverage his background and passions to do something unique.

The relationship of income to perspective and vision for the future

The story of how Tim's book deal and release came about

Caller- I'm looking at starting a new opportunity in sales. I'm hesitant because compensation will partially be based on commission.

Caller- I want to start a new business based on a product. How do I start marketing this product?

Hour 3

Caller- I'm looking to get in the music business. Any tips?

Caller- I have a concept for a restaurant. What are my chances of selling the concept?

Caller- What is the best way to market an e-book?

Caller- I'm ready to start a business. What steps do I need to take to get started?

In this episode, Best-selling author Seth Godin joins Dan and Tim to discuss his new book.

Hour 1

The misperception that you can't make money doing something you love.

The importance of personal skills over credentials and college degrees.

"Work for us and drive a new BMW!"

First jobs of highly successful people.

A new kind of "home based business"

Caller- What's a good way to approach upper management about the possibility of a promotion?

Caller- I keep getting bored with new jobs. What do I need to change?

Hour 2

Dan speaks with best-selling author and master marketer Seth Godin

Do quitters really never win?

Making a "Quit List"

Is it OK to cry at work?

Hour 3

Caller- My son recently lost his job. What can he do to support his family?

Time off for donating a kidney?

The border patrol Nascar

Caller- How do I know when to quit my business?

Caller- I'm relocating in less than a year. There are rumors of layoffs at my job. Should I consider looking for a new job, or wait it out at my current job?

Hour 1

Tim's gearing up to start promoting his book. He may have to start tucking in his shirt!

Tim shares about how some of his great opportunities came about.

A discussion of one of Seth Godin's recent blogs about a blind squirrel.

Caller- How do I start a nonprofit?

Caller- Some encouragement about finding the work you love.

Email- What is the typical time it takes to get into a new career?

Power washing phone booths!

What does it take to be successful in entertainment or sports?

Hour 2

Do you really need to choose between financial security and loving your work?

Caller- I'm new to the area and can't seem to find a job. Help!

Caller- I recently quit my job and got a job at Home Depot. I've made a lot of changes recently. Am I just bouncing around or is there direction to what I'm doing?

Coca-Cola's new calorie-free sweetener

The importance of staying up on trends and news to find new opportunities.

How original ideas gain traction and gather momentum

Hour 3

Email- I want to move 2000 miles away. Do I find a job or a community first?

Caller- Invention development companies- good or bad?

Caller- Is there a book or website that will help me develop the proper verbiage for patents?

Caller- I want to open a car shop. Where do I start?

Caller- I want to do office work, but I need to make more than $8-10 per hour. What other opportunities are out there?

Caller- Some followup questions on a recent on-air email.

Email- A 48 Days success story

Caller- How do I market a book and how do I start an online radio station?

Call with your questions or comments. Every Sunday from 6-9pm CST: 1-888-48Days-2

Hour 1

Dan is joined this week by his good friend Jerry Hall.

Email- I recently inherited a business that I have no interest in running. What can I do to take care of the employees that have poured their life into seeing the business succeed?

Email- Is Dan planning on distributing a DVD as part of a class based on '48 Days'?

The benefit of setting goals

Caller- I want to start a magazine. Where do I get started?

Caller- I feel stuck in a job I hate. How can I get back to doing things I'm passionate about?

Caller- There is a specific job that I want to go after. How do I prepare my resume considering I have no prior experience in my new field?

Hour 2

Jerry and Dan discuss their previous business ventures together.

Caller- I've put school on hold to pay off debt. What can I do to generate income with the skills I've accumulated thus far?

Email- I feel like giving up my job search. What am I doing wrong?

Hour 3

Email- What is the root of fear of change?

Caller- How do I come up with a starting point for salary negotiation?

Caller- How do I move toward a career in a field that I have no experience in?

Email- How should a deaf person approach a job search?

Caller- How do I protect the name of my business?

Hour 1

The power of audio and its ability to be more memorable than just plain words

Email- I can't see a way to give up my high-paying boring job to start my own business.

Business ideas that cost less than $2000 that you can make $30,000 dollars a year on.

Caller- An audio tip for recording interviews and discussions.

Caller- Is it possible to charge for podcasts?

Tim's fear of horses and boot socks.

Caller- Are there magic beans for 48 Days type success?

Caller- I run a non-profit. I recently started selling a very popular product. Do I need to start a new business for this product?

The Dan MIller/ TIm Knox Work Song

Email- How persistent is too persistent when working on securing a position at a company?

Hour 2

Why 48 Days?

Caller- I've had a ton of great interviews but no job offers. What do I need to change?

Caller- I'm trying to get into freelance writing, but I'm being asked for a resume. How do I craft a resume for a freelance position?

Caller- I feel discriminated against when trying to find clients for my business. What can I do?

Caller- I'm in salary negotiations right now. What is a good process to follow?

Hour 3

The importance of awareness of trends and their effect on your career.

Caller- I'm ready to start marketing my business. How do I get past the gatekeepers at businesses I'm selling to?

Caller- The legitimacy of the Entrepreneurial Rollover Stock Option Plan.

Caller- How can I find out how much I'm worth to a potential employer?

Dan's new granddaughter

Email- How do I determine the price I should offer for buying a business?

Call with your questions or comments. Every Sunday from 6-9pm CST: 1-888-48Days-2

Hour 1

Anecdotes about roughing it in college, enabling parents, and changing majors in college

Caller- I was turned down by a company I really want to work for. What can I do to improve my job search?

The struggle of someone who loves their work to stay away from their work some times.

Caller- A discussion about college and the true value of a college degree.

Caller- I want to help get my mother back into the workplace. How can I encourage her to push ahead?

Building a straw house

Hour 2

The story of Dan's landscaper and how he helped his father become self-sufficient with a business.

Specifics of Podcasting

People are surprised that there is value in what they know.

Caller- I'm having trouble coming up with ideas for a business that puts my knowledge to use.

Hour 3

The story of a man who created a business out of tuning pianos.

A man who makes $20 million sharing his knowledge of PhotoShop

Modifying you business to keep up with a changing world.

Creative marketing ideas.

Has Dan ever had a job he hates?

Hour 1

48 Peppermints to the Work You Love

The power of reading and constant learning

The challenge of setting boundaries when working from home

Caller- How can I find out why I was terminated?

Caller- I want to be an independent contractor. Do I still send out resumes in the same way I would for a regular job?

Caller- I want to create podcasts professionally. Do I need a business license?

Caller- What is the deal with drop-ship companies?

Hour 2

Caller- My employer was recently sold to a foreign company. What can I do now to prepare for the possibility that I might be terminated?

New Business Opportunities

Caller- I'm having trouble reaching decision makers with follow-up calls.

Caller- I'm a motivational speaker. How can I speak to promoters and get opportunities to speak?

Caller- Am I sidelining my dream business by going to school?

Hour 3

Caller- An anecdote about Ebay and going out of business.

Caller- How can I improve on going the extra mile as a manager?

Caller- How do I go about selling my business?

Caller- How do I find the proper division of a company that would have use of my skills and talents?

Caller- I plan on opening a business. I need an objective opinion on the real business possibilities of my chosen industry.

Caller- Is a MLM company for me?

Hour 1

The importance of interviewing well.

Email- What should I look for when picking a business to start?

Email- What steps should I take to focus myself into a career path?

Email- I went from being an employee to a contractor for the same company. Am I being paid a fair wage?

Email- I have an Associate's degree. Every potential employer wants a Bachelor's degree. How do I overcome this?

Hour 2

Dean of Admissions at MIT lied on resume and didn't attend college

Caller- Will advancements in technology cause more outsourcing?

Work isn't a curse, it's a gift!

Email- What's your opinion on the Team Destiny system?

Caller- What do you do when you're fired and don't know why, and then are asked in an interview?

Caller- I want a job where I can travel. What's out there?

Hour 3

Caller- How do I price a consulting service?

Dan discusses the intricacies of his multiple streams of income.

Email- I hate my job, but I can't afford to quit.

Hour 1

Tim's experience trying to rent a "tored up" truck

Discussion of a report about today's hot job markets. What's today's hottest job opportunity?

Caller- How can I go about selling downloadable videos?

Caller- I'm about to purchase a stagnant business. How do I kick-start it and make changes to it to increase revenue?

Caller- I'm starting a photography business. How should I go about pricing my services?

Hour 2

Caller- How do I identify potential employers when I'm not completely sure about what my passions are?

Caller- I want to go back to school and finish my degree. Is it worth it?

Caller- I'm working on positioning myself in a specific niche as an entrepreneur. What are more steps I can take?

Caller- I was recently laid off. I need help with a new job search.

Caller- To patent or not to patent?

Hour 3

Caller- I'd like to make a career out of volunteer work that I've done. I can't seem to make inroads with the company I'm targeting my resume toward.

Caller- I'm looking to establish my expertise. I have a book partially completed. IS that the best way to establish myself or should I use more "traditional" methods?

Caller- I run a nonprofit organization. How can I fund it?

Caller- I feel locked in to the career path I'm on. How can I break out of that and find something new?

Caller- I'd like to start a car customization company. I've completed a few upfront steps, and would like to know what my next steps should be.

Hour 1
The latest fad - Webkinz - http://www.webkinz.com/

The challenge and benefits of creating a community of customers

The founder of Facebook turned down a $1 billion offer

Email - How do I expand my voice-over business?

Sir James Dyson - Inventor of Dyson Vacuums, one of the richest men in the UK, had over 5000 failures before getting his vacuum right

Hour 2
Great inventions and inventors

Caller- I have a teenager who isn't really sure what career direction he should take. How can he investigate and learn his strengths?

Caller- I have a suggestion for the dog-collar idea

Caller- Why do some businesses run a credit check on potential employees?

Caller- I want to move out of working in a family business. What steps do I take to find new opportunities?

Caller- I have 2 bachelor degrees, but am looking for a new direction. Where do I start?

Caller- I'm a minister and am looking for a second job. Potential employers are viewing my being a minister as a negative. How can I turn these negatives into positives?

Caller- I have a creative idea for a gag gift. Is my idea a good one?

Hour 3

Caller- Another dog-collar idea - an invisible dog leash.

Caller- When do you know it's time to quit a job and look for something else?

Caller- How do I provide direction to my daughter who is considering what career to choose?

Caller- How do I overcome a previous conviction to find work that I love?

Caller- I've had a job I hate for eight years. I need help with starting my own business.

Caller- A suggestion for previous caller with a conviction. Also, I took Dan's advice and have found work I love!

Caller- I need to look for new opportunities since my physical condition isn't what it used to be.

Caller- I need more money to buy into my franchise. What are my options?

Hour 1

Easter Egg Hunts

Businesses for Sale

The loss of a job can help you rediscover dormant ideas.

Caller- I want to revive a struggling business. How much of my life should I invest?

Caller- Comments for previous caller. Be sure to prepare an exit clause for partnerships.

Caller- I want to start a business out of giving tours. What do I need to know?

Hour 2

Creative and inexpensive marketing ideas

Caller- I'm co-writing a book. I need help with the contract process.

Caller- I have a recipe idea. Should I try to sell the product of the recipe, or license the rights to use the recipe?

Caller- I'm an author, how do I get published?

Caller- I work a job, and own a franchise. I can't afford to quit my job. How do I juggle everything?

Hour 3

Caller- I just graduated from law school and can't find a job. How do I go about searching?

Caller- Where can I find legitimate companies that will pay me to take surveys?

Caller- I've been an independent consultant for years. How do I go about moving back in to a "real job"?

Caller- Where can I find artwork for my e-books?

Problems that lottery winners face

Hour 1

2.8 million Americans have an "Extreme Commute"

Dan and Tim have a "30-Second Commute"

April Fools' Day jokes

The Left-Handed Whopper

Companies are using new perks and benefits to attract good employees

Bill Gates loves his work

Hour 2

This hour is a Kids and Business theme hour

Tim talks about his childhood and early interest in business

Dan discusses his early business successes and failures

Special Guest - Sondra Clark

Email- I have a 12-year old daughter who makes her own clothing and is reaching great success

Caller- My daughter owns her own business. How can she get financial support to expand?

Hour 3

Attention Podcast Listeners! What podcast format do you prefer?

Caller- I'm 12 years old and want to breed fish!

Caller- Where can I find resources that walk me through getting proper licensing for my business?

Caller- How can I find good employees?

Caller- How do I make myself more appealing to a potential employer?

Caller- I want to manufacture wine. Where do I start?

Hour 1

Dan is joined by his lovely wife Joanne on this episode.

Hour 2 is a "Working Together" theme hour.

Email- I followed Dan's advice and am happier in my career than ever!

Caller- Congrats to Dan and Joanne on their 39th wedding anniversary

Email- How do I go about finding my own unique purpose?

Caller- I've created a 10-hour workshop. How do I go about licensing the materials to an instructor?

Caller- I'm working my way out of debt. Do I borrow money now to start a business I love or wait until I can pay cash for it?

Caller- More anniversary congrats from Kent Julian.

Hour 2

This hour is a "Working Together" theme hour.

Dan has had one "real job" in his entire life.

The exciting life Joanne has had since marrying Dan, a free spirit.

Guests- Charlie and Ruth Jones of "Peculiar People"

Dan and Joanne's youngest child, Ashley, joins in the discussion.

Hour 3

Caller- I've had a payroll check bounce, should I mention it in interviews for potential employers?

Caller- What should we have in place before the family bread-winner jumps from a real job to working on his own?

Caller- I'm trying to start a business for the second time. I'm not great at sales. How do I take advantage of my strengths without suffering from my weaknesses?

Caller- I love my work. I'm growing older and fear that my age will cause me to be unable to continue at some point.

Caller- I'm considering taking a second job to pay off debt. Is this a good idea?

Caller- I'm so busy with my business that I don't have time for marketing. Any suggestions?

Hour 1

How much money would you take to leave a job you hate? A discussion of the huge response to buyout options being offered to auto workers.

Dan recently had a discussion with some older folks about how they came into their careers.

What would you do if you won $3 million tomorrow?

How do you define success in your career?

Caller- How do I find potential employers in a new city?

Hour 2

A university is offering a Ph. D. in how to be happy.

Caller- I want to start an internet business without spending much money. How do I get started?

Caller- I want to move from having a job that controls my life to having a job that lets me pursue my true purpose.

Caller- I'm a freelancer, how do I deal financially with an inconsistent income?

Caller- A story of great career success!

Caller- I've floating around from job to job. How do I transition to a really meaningful career?

Hour 3

The power of podcasting.

Caller- Are career counselors worth the money?

Caller- How can I manage my time better?

Caller- How can I get noticed by companies with my resume?

Caller- How do I take the first steps to moving out of a job I hate?

Caller- I'm about to publish my first book... now what?

Dan's on vacation again! Tim sits in for Dan along with co-host Paul Finley.

Hour 1
Should you start a business to make money or to be happy?

Caller- I want to sell my business. How can I find prospects to sell to?

Caller- I'm writing an e-book to sell online. What are some of the technical details I should know about?

Caller- Is it really worth the money to form an LLC in Nevada?

Traffic Jam Parties!

Caller- What can I do when my living situation doesn't facilitate the work I love?

Hour 2
Caller- I've been out of the work force for a while. How can I overcome my feelings of inadequacy as I look for work again? How can I turn my real passion into my career?

Caller- I've been in the military for 4 years. How can I transition into a career now that I've returned home.

Caller- How do I deal with inconsistent income?

Caller- I started a business without a real plan. I've taken on a lot of debt and am ready to reassess my career choice.

Hour 3
Caller- How can I find a job that suits all of my interests?

Are you suffering from "I Don't Syndrome" ?

The benefit of starting a business on a shoestring budget.

Caller- What degree should I get to start a career in technical writing?

Caller- I'm working on building my brand. Is it too risky to change my business name now that I have some business already coming in?

Caller- Comments for previous callers.

Hour 1

How to manage unexpected change and find opportunities within that change.

Caller- I'm moving from the non-profit sector in the corporate world. How do I deal with a negative stigma in the corporate world about social work? How do I convince a potential employer to create a position for me?

Caller- I was terminated from a job, and managed to turn it around and now I'm in business with my invention - www.lockjawsecurity.com

The power of clearly defined goals.

Caller- How do I compete with large companies?

Caller- How do I deal with my reluctance to cold call?

Hour 2

The misperception that money creates happiness.

Caller- How do I go through the patent process myself?

Caller- I've been going to school, but now am having second thoughts about my career once I finish school.

Caller- How can I get over the fear of the risk of starting my own business?

Caller- The poor man's patent.

Caller- How do I repurpose an existing product and market it for a new use?

Caller- What is the best way to search for a job?

Caller- Who do I initiate contact with at a potential employer?

Hour 3

The huge benefit and power that comes from regular reading.

Caller- I feel like I'm stuck in the position I'm in. How can I redirect myself within my industry?

Caller- I'm looking for a new career. Where can I go for some direction on how to apply my interests and skills?

Caller- What questions do I ask when looking to invest in a start-up company?

Caller- How can I get my art placed in art galleries?

Caller- How do I market my music-teaching skills and find new clients?

Caller- I have a seasonal business. How can I make it successful?

Hour 1

The freedom of time that comes with new work models.

The distinction between linear and residual income.

Tim talks about a friend who came up with Blues Begone (http://www.bluesbegone.com/) in response to long waiting periods for psychiatrists in England.

A NY man fired from IBM for visiting a chat room while at work. Now suing for $5 million.

Caller- Has a great job opportunity, but new job's insurance wouldn't be adequate. Click here http://www.48days.com/insurance_options.php for more info on insurance options.

Caller- Hasn't had to search for a job in 15 years. Now is ready for job search, but traditional job-search methods aren't working.

Caller- Is ready to start a business. Needs help moving from thinking about it, to actually doing it.

Ways to avoid being intimidated by the process of starting a business.
Turning former employers into clients.

Caller- Has product idea. Wants to know about patents and startup plans.

Hour 2

Caller- Wants tips for how to interview job candidates better.

Why are manhole covers round?

Caller- Plans on being a timber broker. Wants tips for securing investment money.

The vast amount of information available on the internet.

The ups and downs of franchising.

What is the difference between a franchise and a business opportunity?

Blue light special- Five cent vasectomies!

The importance of effective marketing to your business.

Hour 3

Ways for kids to make money.

The resourcefulness that comes from growing up poor.

Caller- Job opportunities for older people and college suggestions.

Caller- Motivational Speaker Joe - How to package resume-like presentation to get corporate speaking opportunities.

Caller- Has business idea for cooking demonstration video. Needs tips for setting up infrastructure.

Dan talks about finding ways to generate income outside of the traditional job.
Podshow PDN {podshow-6e3a2ecc9a2b9e05f658cee4e8391c92}

This Author: Dan Miller

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