Jan. 9, 2026

1355: From Music Exec to Men's Coach: The Power of Knowing Your "Why" w/ Kevin Kertes

Kevin Kertes, a former senior music executive turned founder of advanceMen Coaching, joins the show to discuss the transformative power of vulnerability, connection, and purpose for male entrepreneurs. He shares his journey from a high-stakes corporate career to building a coaching practice dedicated to helping men lead with more confidence and intention. This episode is a must-listen for any entrepreneur feeling isolated or questioning their path, as Kevin provides a powerful framework for aligning your business with your core "why," leading to greater fulfillment and sustainable success.

💡 What You'll Take Away For YOUR Business

  • 🚀 The critical difference between mentorship, therapy, and coaching—and which one you need to break through your current plateau.
  • 💡 Why embracing vulnerability is a superpower for male leaders, fostering stronger teams and deeper client relationships.
  • 🔥 How to answer the question, "Who are you without telling me what you do for a living?" to uncover your true identity and purpose.
  • 🎯 The simple yet profound daily practices to shift your energy from apathetic to anabolic, attracting more opportunities and positive outcomes.
  • 💰 Why knowing your "why" is the ultimate foundation for a business that not only makes money but also provides deep, personal fulfillment.
  • 🤝 Actionable strategies for building genuine connections and a powerful support network to combat entrepreneurial isolation.

📝 About Kevin Kertes

Kevin Kertes is the founder of advanceMen Coaching, a practice designed to help men move forward with confidence, clarity, and purpose. With nearly 30 years of experience as a senior music executive at industry giants like Warner Brothers and Sony Music, Kevin brings a unique blend of corporate wisdom and certified coaching expertise to his work. His mission is to help men break out of isolation, build genuine confidence, and live with intention, transforming how they show up as leaders, partners, and community members.

🎯 Kevin’s BEST Piece of Advice for Wantrepreneurs and Entrepreneurs

"Make sure you know your why. If you don't know your why, nothing's going to work. It all comes back to why you're doing something."

📢 Memorable Quotes

  • “One of the first questions I ask in the men's group is tell me a little bit about who you are without telling me what you do for a living.” – Kevin Kertes
  • “The energy you put out into the world, you get back. And if the energy you put out is genuine and it's really you, you'll get it back.” – Kevin Kertes
  • “Being an entrepreneur is another word for being a salesman… But if you know it and it comes back to your why, then the family work, the running the kids to soccer practice… you manage it.” – Kevin Kertes

🔗 Links & Resources