
Gridiron and Growth Podcast
A podcast inside the minds of business champions, hosted by Super Bowl champions Bennie Fowler & Ryan Harris
Gridiron and Growth Podcast
Growth: Mark Labriola - Lessons from American Idol | E26
How can rejection on a reality show lead to success and personal growth?
In episode 26, Mark Labriola shares his remarkable journey from being a top 98 contestant on American Idol to becoming the CEO and founder of a production company. With vulnerability and wisdom, Mark opens up about the behind-the-scenes reality of the show, the challenges he faced after his elimination, and the life-changing decisions that led him to where he is today. Through his story, you will discover the importance of pursuing your dreams while valuing family, pushing through fears, and leading with love in both personal and professional life.
[00:00 - 13:40] The American Idol Experience
- What it's really like to audition for American Idol
- Making it to the top 98 out of 120,000 contestants
- How the production of the show works
[13:41 - 19:28] Life After Elimination
- Mark's emotional struggle after being eliminated from American Idol
- The importance of having a support system and a mature perspective
- Starting a side hustle while working a day job to support his family
[19:29 - 27:41] From Side Hustle to Successful Business
- Building production company
- The importance of being present online and building trust with potential clients
- Leaning on faith to keep going
[27:42 - 34:16] Overcoming Fear and Loving Others
- Overcoming FOPO
- Loving and accepting people who are different from you
- How faith influences Mark’s leadership style and company culture
[34:17 - 39:50] Pursuing Dreams with Perspective
- Hear Mark's advice for aspiring singers
- pursuing your dreams while prioritizing family and relationships
- Build a legacy that goes beyond fame and fortune
Key Quotes:
“What is going to set you apart from everybody else is you pushing through your fears and work on the other side.” - Mark Labriola
“Be a leader, make a difference, stand up for what is right, help those who can't help themselves, make the best of every situation and stay positive.” - Mark Labriola
“You need those times in your life that are hard in order to shape and mold you to be a better person.” - Mark Labriola
Reach out to Bennie Fowler!
Instagram: @benniefowler1
Twitter: @BennieFowler123
Reach out to Ryan Harris!
Instagram: @ryanharris_68
Twitter: @ryanharris_68
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