Welcome to Episode 123 of The Endless Growth Podcast!

In this episode, Alex and Edgar open up about a topic most people avoid: What happens when life doesn’t go as planned?

They dive into a raw and honest conversation about infertility, surrogacy, and adoption, reflecting on the emotional and financial weight behind starting a family. From $50,000 surrogacy price tags to stories from the NICU, they explore what it really means to raise a child in today’s world and how trauma, addiction, and circumstance can shape a future before it even begins.

But the episode doesn’t stay heavy for long. They pivot into reflection mode, revisiting past podcast guests whose life journeys offered new lenses, like Thomas’s time in India or JJ’s deep dive into fitness. Along the way, they examine growth through conversation, unexpected takeaways, and how podcasting has reshaped their own communication and mindset.

On the business front, Edgar shares his regrets about a failed gym marketing deal, leading into a real talk about advertising ROI, word-of-mouth strategies, and the importance of knowing when to walk away. They also touch on the hidden lessons of hiring, referrals gone wrong, and how alcohol can reveal a person’s true nature, whether at parties or the workplace.

The episode closes with lighter stories and outdoorsy plans, from ripped shorts at 7-Eleven to off-roading trips, backpacking dreams, and the peace of being disconnected. Edgar geeks out over photography, fall transitions, and trying new detailing chemicals, while Alex reflects on financial discipline as a lifelong advantage.

If you’ve ever thought about family, questioned your business decisions, or just wanted to feel less alone in figuring it all out, this one’s for you.

Thanks for listening. Let’s keep growing together.

00:29 Discussing Parenthood and Fertility
01:12 Adoption and Surrogacy
06:53 Challenges in the Medical Field
10:02 Podcast Reflections and Guest Insights
21:29 Marketing and Business Strategies
27:18 Leveraging Social Circles for Recruitment
27:46 Unexpected Outcomes of Referrals
29:06 The Impact of Alcohol on Behavior
31:13 Workplace Dynamics and Drinking Culture
33:18 Reflecting on Career Choices
38:14 Natural Disasters and Personal Impact
40:41 Outdoor Adventures and Mishaps
44:19 Future Plans and New Beginnings
51:32 The Perils of Renting Off-Road Vehicles
51:49 Adventures and Mishaps in the Wilderness
53:01 The Appeal of Custom Jeeps and Off-Roading
53:17 The Joys and Challenges of Overlanding
54:05 The Comfort of Having a Car on Trips
54:53 Catching Up on Life and Business
55:29 Exploring New Hobbies and Interests
56:33 The Cost and Value of Hobbies
58:04 The Skill of Living Below Your Means
59:59 Balancing Business Expenses and Preparedness
01:08:53 The Importance of Quality Tools and Materials
01:09:57 Innovations and Discoveries in Car Detailing
01:14:32 Tips for Car Care and Maintenance
01:15:56 Reflecting on Past Mistakes and Learning
01:17:18 Wrapping Up and Future Plans