The Truth About Grants, Freedom, and Failure: Lessons from Matthew Lesko

Freedom Nation Podcast

Navigating the path to entrepreneurial success can feel overwhelming. Where do you find the right resources, and how do you stand out in a crowded marketplace? Matthew Lesko, the iconic "Question Mark Guy," has seen it all—from failures to successes. With decades of experience and a unique perspective, he’s here to share the strategies that helped him innovate before the internet and create a thriving community around helping others. In this episode, Matthew reveals how to start small, embrace creativity, and leverage available resources—like government programs and community grants—to build a life of freedom and impact.

Key Takeaways:

• Freedom Through Innovation: Matthew shares how he escaped the 9-to-5 grind by embracing creativity and turning failure into opportunity.

• The Power of Public Resources: Learn how to leverage publicly available government programs, nonprofit resources, and community grants to kickstart your business or personal projects.

• Build community for Success: Discover how Matthew transformed his business model by creating a member-led community, proving that collaboration drives greater impact.

• Plan for Failure, Not Just Success: Matthew explains why focusing on failure can lead to better adaptability and long-term success.

• Embracing Change and Loving What You Do: Hear how Matthew’s shift from selling books to building an online community has kept him relevant and fulfilled even at 81 years old.

About the Guest:

Matthew Lesko is an energetic, passionate advocate with over 40 years of experience helping Americans access billions in government funding. Known for his colorful suits and infectious enthusiasm, he has made it his mission to reveal hidden pathways to financial support for everyday people. With a background that includes over 100 television appearances on Oprah, Larry King Live, and Good Morning America, as well as more than 4 million books sold, Matthew is a captivating storyteller who connects with audiences from all walks of life.

Today, at 81, Matthew is not slowing down. His community, Lesko Help, has grown to over 15,000 members, where he empowers individuals to cut through red tape and access funds they may not know exist. In a time of economic uncertainty, he’s dedicated to teaching people how to get the support they need from resources they already pay for with their tax dollars.

Matthew’s story is compelling, timely, and actionable. He’s ready to share insights, demystify government programs, and inspire your audience to take advantage of resources designed to uplift them. With a lifetime of proven success and a mission to help everyone access free government support, Matthew Lesko is the ideal guest to engage, educate, and empower your listeners.

Links:

https://www.free.lesko.com/leskohelp

Fast Five Questions:

1. If you woke up and your business was gone, you have $500, a laptop, a place to live, and food, what would you do first? “Start teaching a course or running a program with minimal resources, such as using local libraries to connect with an audience.”

2. What is the biggest mistake that you have made in business? “Getting business partners withput clear alignment, which often leads to complication.”

3. What is a book that you would recommend? “A book about love and connection, emphasizing how relationships and emotional intelligence are critical for business and personal growth.”

4. What is a tool that you use every day that you would recommend? “Findhelp.org—a resource to connect with nonprofit and government organizations offering assistance for various needs.”

5. What is your definition of freedom? “Living a life where no one tells you what to do and following your heart instead of societal expectations.”

About Jeff:

Jeff spent the early part of his career working for others. Jeff had started 5 businesses that failed before he had his first success. Since that time he has learned the principles of a successful business and has been able to build and grow multiple seven-figure businesses. Jeff lives in the Austin area and is actively working in his community and supporting the growth of small businesses. He is a board member of the Incubator.Edu program at Vista Ridge High School and is on the board of directors of the Leander Educational Excellence Foundation

Connect with the Freedom Nation podcast at https://freedom-nation-podcast.captivate.fm/

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomnationpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKikel

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

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