Success Unleash'd with Shawne Merriman & Zack Ellison
About the Show
Every success story has a journey – one filled with challenges, setbacks, and perseverance. Success Unleash’d is the podcast that uncovers those journeys, providing actionable insights and inspiration to help listeners unlock their potential and achieve their own version of success.
Hosted by Shawne Merriman, former All-Pro NFL linebacker and entrepreneur, and Zack Ellison, a top venture capital expert and founder of Applied Real Intelligence, the show dives into the stories of trailblazers from diverse industries. These guests – leaders, innovators, and game-changers – share their hard-earned wisdom, offering practical advice and proven strategies for overcoming obstacles, building successful businesses, and cultivating the mindset needed to thrive.
In each episode, guests reflect on their journeys to the top. Through their stories, they reveal the steps, habits, strategies, and mindset that transformed their careers, their businesses, and their lives. From navigating setbacks to forging meaningful relationships and building personal brands, every conversation provides takeaways that listeners can apply to their own paths.
Success Unleash’d is for anyone looking to grow, take intelligent risks, and achieve their goals. It’s more than a podcast – it’s the resource for unlocking your fullest potential.
Join Shawne and Zack as they uncover inspiring stories and empower their audience to unleash their own success.
About the Hosts
Shawne Merriman | NFL Legend, Founder of Lights Out Xtreme Fighting & Lights Out Sports TV
Shawne Merriman, famously known as “Lights Out,” is a former NFL linebacker celebrated for his explosive athleticism and game-changing performances. During his illustrious career with the San Diego Chargers and Buffalo Bills, Merriman earned the 2005 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year title, three Pro Bowl selections, and two All-Pro honors. Known for his signature sack dance and electrifying energy, Shawne lit up stadiums across the league.
Post-retirement, Merriman transitioned his passion for competition into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), founding Lights Out Xtreme Fighting, a prominent MMA promotion showcasing top talent. Furthering his entrepreneurial journey, Shawne launched Lights Out Sports TV, a free streaming platform that revolutionizes fan engagement by featuring live sports channels such as fishing, rugby, motocross, and even high-stakes chess.
Beyond his sports and business ventures, Shawne is deeply committed to giving back. Through his Lights On Foundation, he supports at-risk youth, empowering them with resources and opportunities to succeed. Shawne’s inspiring journey from NFL stardom to entrepreneurship and philanthropy underscores his resilience, vision, and dedication to making an impact both on and off the field.
Zack Ellison | Founder & Managing General Partner, Applied Real Intelligence (A.R.I.)
Zack Ellison, MBA, MS, CFA, CAIA, is the Founder and Managing General Partner of Applied Real Intelligence (A.R.I.) and Chief Investment Officer of the A.R.I. Senior Secured Growth Credit Fund, which provides financing solutions to premier American innovators.
Zack’s distinguished career spans roles at five publicly traded financial firms, including three with over $1 trillion in assets. He has worked at some of the world’s largest financial institutions, including Scotia Bank, Deutsche Bank, and Sun Life Financial, where he excelled as an investment banker, bond trader, and portfolio manager.
A recognized thought leader in funding innovation, Zack writes monthly columns for Venture Capital Journal and Built In, where he shares insights on investing in innovation, financial strategies, and maximizing risk-adjusted returns. He also hosts The 7 in 7 Show with Zack Ellison, a podcast featuring conversations with top wealth managers, focused on timeless investment principles and the future of investing.
Zack holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, an MS in Risk Management from NYU Stern School of Business and is completing his Doctorate in Business Administration at the University of Florida.
Beyond his professional achievements, Zack is deeply committed to mentorship and giving back. Inspired by his single mother, whose resilience and determination shaped his values, Zack has mentored students and young professionals through organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and the “I Have a Dream” Foundation.
From excelling at top financial institutions to building a leading investment firm from the ground up, Zack’s journey exemplifies creativity, strategic thinking, and a passion for helping entrepreneurs overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.
Watch and Listen
