Joshua introduces his background and the origin of his nickname.

Who is the World's Mayor

How serving others opened doors to the Emmys and Oscars.

Service Leads to Hollywood Access

Why you do not need to live in LA or NY to succeed in media.

Breaking the Location Myth

Joshua shares how being an extra led to a major role.

The Super Bowl Commercial Story

Discussion on why givers win in the long run.

Givers Versus Takers

Junaid shares his personal story of job loss and realignment.

Getting Fired to Find Purpose

Why nonfiction and raw truth resonate more than fiction.

The Power of True Stories

You might believe your past mistakes disqualify you from a future of impact. You might think you need to live in a big city to build a media empire. Joshua Berglan, known as The World's Mayor, proves these assumptions wrong. In this raw conversation, he reveals how putting a spotlight on his darkest moments actually became his greatest shield. Discover how serving others without an agenda opened doors to the Oscars and the Super Bowl. If you are ready to stop hiding and start building a legacy based on truth, this episode is your blueprint.

Gratitude Unfiltered

Give and Take

IMDb Pro

God Friended Me

A Million Little Things

Quran

Bible

Joshua Berglan: Unlocking Opportunity Through Radical Truth and Service

Joshua Berglan joins Junaid to discuss the intersection of trauma, faith, and media success. Joshua shares his transition from homelessness and addiction to becoming a global brand designer and talk show host. He explains his philosophy of radical transparency and how exposing his own shadows protects him. Junaid and Joshua explore how simple acts of service can bypass traditional gatekeepers in Hollywood. They also discuss the spiritual mechanics of obedience and how true stories resonate more deeply than fiction in the modern content landscape.

The Power of Radical Truth

# From Shadow to Spotlight: The Gratitude of Joshua Berglan

In the pursuit of purpose, some individuals emerge as guiding lights, their personal stories serving as powerful reminders of resilience and the strength found in truth. Joshua Berglan, known to many as The World's Mayor and host of *Gratitude Unfiltered*, stands as one such figure. His life story, marked by profound challenges and an unwavering commitment to service, offers a blueprint for finding grace and impact against all odds. His journey reminds us that every experience, even the most difficult, holds the potential for transformation and a deeper connection to our mission.

## A Transparent Beginning: Living Life Out Loud

Joshua's path is not one of hidden pasts but of radical transparency. He speaks openly about a childhood scarred by molestation and physical abuse, abandonment, periods of homelessness, and later, struggles with addiction that led to six arrests. These are not confessions shared in whispers, but rather parts of a public testimony, freely offered. This commitment to truth stems from a profound realization.

> "When God came to me a couple years ago and told me to put a spotlight on my shadow, that meant living everything out loud, living life in real time. So whether it was good or bad, I talked about it. I talked about it publicly... There's so much power in truth. We keep so many secrets, but those secrets are poison for us."

His philosophy is that the very things intended to cripple or destroy us can become our greatest assets. By speaking about these experiences, sharing how we overcome, and discussing our personal journeys, we create pathways for others. Our triumphs become **keys out of a prison**, unlocking freedom for those who may be experiencing similar struggles. This profound act of sharing, Joshua teaches, is our contribution to the world, a testament to the fact that challenges are not dealt *to* us, but *for* us, shaping us into vessels of unique wisdom and empathy.

## The Spirit of Service: Discovering Value in Every Field

Joshua's professional life has been as varied as his personal one, yet it is consistently unified by a core principle: service. For 18 years, he dedicated himself to working with patients suffering from complex disabilities like ALS, muscular dystrophy, and spinal cord injuries. This was an industry defined by its focus on serving others, a foundation that would underpin all his future endeavors. Following changes in Medicare, he sold his company and ventured into the skincare industry, eventually launching his own line. This shift, initially driven by his father's battle with melanoma, led him to understand the nuances of brand design and market value.

He quickly realized that whether it was medical devices, cosmetics, or even a simple sandwich, the underlying principle remained the same: **providing value**. People often overcomplicate things, he observes, getting lost in minor details or falling in love with a product that will never love them back. The true focus should always be on discovering a need and finding a way to fulfill it. This approach, characterized by a genuine desire to serve without expectation of immediate return, earned him the moniker, The World's Mayor.

> "The way that you show up and serve is you find a need, and you find a way to provide it. And fortunately for me, I am really good at helping people get what they need. And so that in the attitude of helping everyone win, one gave me the nickname The World's Mayor, but also put me in a position to design."

His spirit of generosity has opened doors to prestigious events like the Emmys, Oscars, and Grammy Awards, providing access to film sets and the entertainment industry. From launching a global eyelash applicator product to securing acting roles in movies and TV shows, every opportunity has arisen from a simple, consistent attitude: showing up, having a good attitude, and asking, "How can I help?" This steadfast commitment to service became the currency of his success.

## Leveling the Playing Field: Opportunities Beyond the Expected

In our conversation, Joshua challenges common beliefs about achieving dreams, particularly in creative industries. Many aspiring actors or media personalities believe they must relocate to cultural hubs like New York or Los Angeles. Joshua's experience offers a different perspective.

He recounts how, upon returning to Oklahoma for ministry training, he found himself on a movie set on his second day. This was a chance encounter, illustrating that opportunity can arise anywhere. He highlights the increasing prevalence of acting and filming opportunities in states offering tax credits, such as Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida, and North Carolina. He explains that resources like Amazon IMDb Pro and various casting networks provide avenues for local engagement, democratizing access to the industry.

Furthermore, he emphasizes the power of attitude, even in seemingly minor roles. During a Super Bowl commercial shoot, he began as an extra, but by maintaining a positive outlook and an eagerness to help, he quickly caught the attention of the director and producers. This led to him becoming Brian Urlacher's body double, significantly increasing his earnings and exposure. The same principle applied to a movie that played at Sundance, where his supportive presence and positive energy evolved into multiple speaking roles.

> "There is no shame in being an extra. There is no shame in going in and doing grunt work, because I promise you, if you have a good attitude, people will notice... It is not that you are not too fat, you are not too skinny. You are not too muscular. No, it is not that you are not too Black, you are not too White, you are not too Middle Eastern. None of that crap applies anymore. It is everything is available for everybody."

Joshua powerfully declares that the playing field has been leveled. Physical appearance, age, or background no longer dictate who gets a chance. The world is shifting, and the most valuable asset is a **good attitude** and a genuine willingness to network and serve. He stresses that focusing solely on acting is foolish; instead, cultivate multiple revenue streams and use every situation to make connections. The returns may not be immediate, but a positive impression can lead to unforeseen opportunities down the line.

## The Kingdom Principle of Giving and Receiving

Joshua strongly advocates for providing value to others as a foundational principle. He underscores the importance of a legitimate desire to serve, free from the expectation of immediate reward. Patience and consistency are crucial because, as he states, it is a kingdom principle: when you plant seeds into good soil, a harvest will surely come, often many times greater than what was sown.

> "People say 'nice guys finish last', that is crap. That is so much crap."

This sentiment resonates deeply with the book *Give and Take*, which details how givers, those who give without asking for anything back, often achieve the greatest success. Joshua reinforces this, stating that true success is not always measured in money, but in **power, influence, and authority**, which are more enduring. He connects this to faith, asserting that God will not bless what is kept secret or what is untrue. Living a double life or ignoring one's calling leads to resentment and prevents full blessings.

> "Every one of us knows what right and wrong is... If we are being led to do something, and we ignore it, we stuff it down, we push it away, we ignore it, we live in resentment, we live in anger... we define with the spirit inside of us is telling us to do, we do that, we will not be blessed, period."

He speaks of a powerful truth in both the Quran and the Bible: when we are obedient and faithful, we have the right to remind God of His promises. Furthermore, anything the devil has taken must be repaid seven times. This principle offers immense hope and encouragement to those who have suffered losses, promising restoration and abundance when they align with service and obedience.

## Unveiling Personal Truth: Junaid's Own Reflection

Joshua's message of transparency struck a powerful chord, leading me to share my own story of personal revelation. For a long time, I had withheld a truth about my professional life. It was only when I finally acknowledged this part of my journey that I began to see blessings unfold. My podcast, a passion project, became a central focus. This dedication, however, led to consequences in my corporate job. I was laid off, not because of external factors, but because I was not providing the value required in my role, my passion lay elsewhere. I accepted this, seeking a change after 20 years in one field.

Yet, driven by a desire to support my family, I quickly took another job. Four months later, the same pattern repeated. I was let go again, explicitly told I was focusing on personal work rather than my hired duties. This time, when given the choice to stay for two more weeks under strict conditions or leave immediately, I chose to leave. I refused to lie to myself or live in fear, recognizing the importance of pursuing my true passion. For eight months, I focused on my podcast, web design, book covers, and video projects, without another full time job.

I kept these details private, telling others my contract had ended. However, the moment I spoke my truth to someone else, the very next day, a recruiter called offering me a job. This timing, coupled with a recent conversation with my mother, who had been upset about my infrequent calls, underscored a powerful lesson: there is a higher power at work, and **uncovering hidden truths is essential for moving forward**. This experience deeply resonated with Quranic verses, specifically *Surah Al Waqiah*, which speaks about the Day of Judgment and the unseen forces that allow a seed to grow not just from water and sun, but by divine will. It became clear that often, our own self imposed secrecy prevents the wheels of fortune from turning.

## Faith, Freedom, and the Authenticity Imperative

Joshua delves into the distinction between religion and genuine faith, advocating for a direct relationship with divine principles rather than strict adherence to dogma. He openly discusses how religious restrictions can often hinder truth and authenticity.

> "These religious spirits that are out there... they do not, it is really strange because the truth makes them more uncomfortable than anybody."

He shares that his talk show, *Gratitude Unfiltered*, allows him to discuss topics that many pastors avoid, offering a platform for honesty in a world often defined by superficiality. He believes that many leaders, by protecting their congregations from certain truths, inadvertently block blessings. In a world saturated with Photoshop and scripted reality, **authenticity is the counter force**. It requires courage to go against the grain, to appear foolish, but that is where true value lies. Your truth, your testimony, is the most profound offering you can give.

> "There is a vulnerability in that, and it is scary. But you know what? You get addicted to it after a while... The following does not mean anything. What matters is what you are igniting. And maybe that just maybe it is just one person. And one person has the power inside of them to impact millions."

This call for authenticity echoes throughout our discussion. It means losing some people along the way, those who are not aligned with truth, but it also means attracting those who truly belong. The process of discovering one's truth, Joshua emphasizes, starts with **looking in the mirror and being honest with oneself**, a prerequisite for honesty with anyone else. The answers, as Michael Jackson famously sang, are often in the "Man in the Mirror"; we simply need to apply them to our lives.

## The Power of Light: Combating Darkness Through Service

When asked about a movie character he would play, Joshua reflects on his journey. He admits the best character he can play is himself, a testament to his transparent life. Yet, he is drawn to characters who stretch boundaries, who are perceived as strange or even "insane" because they see the world's truth, like Willy Wonka or the Joker. These characters, in their intensity, highlight the constant battle between light and darkness within us all.

He cautions against getting lost in the "wormhole" of negativity, even when confronting societal evils. While he mistrusts governments and many institutions, his faith in God's promises provides an anchor. He believes that the only way to combat evil is with light.

> "The problem with that is they do not understand that they can be light to fight. The only way to fight against evil is with light... I am light, and I will fight and win against darkness by being light and helping inspiring others to be light."

This powerful message encapsulates his purpose. It is a commitment to inspiring others to awaken their potential, to act, to believe, and to serve. His life, a vibrant narrative of overcoming profound adversity through faith, transparency, and relentless service, is a living example of how one can be grateful against all odds and become a voice for the voiceless. His legacy is built on the simple, yet profound, act of being light in every place he goes, empowering others to do the same, and knowing that even igniting one person can change the masses.

From Shadow to Spotlight: The Gratitude of Joshua Berglan

Hi [Name],

This week on Hacks & Hobbies, we're diving into a topic many shy away from: the power of our own 'shadow.' Junaid Ahmed speaks with Joshua T. Berglan, known as 'The World's Mayor,' about how embracing and even spotlighting past struggles can become your greatest asset.

Joshua shares his incredible journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming a successful brand designer and talk show host. He reveals how radical transparency and a commitment to serving others unexpectedly opened doors to Hollywood, the Emmys, and more – proving that your location or past doesn't define your future potential.

In this episode, you'll learn:
*   How to use your past experiences as keys to unlock opportunities, not barriers.
*   Why genuine service is a powerful strategy for building influence and accessing exclusive circles.
*   How to succeed in media and creative fields regardless of where you live.
*   The long-term benefits of a 'giver's' mindset.

If you're ready to stop hiding and start leveraging your unique story, this conversation is a must listen.

Tune in here: [EPISODE_URL]

Blessings,
Junaid Ahmed

Hi Joshua,

Exciting news! Your episode of Hacks & Hobbies with Junaid Ahmed, 'The Power of Radical Truth,' is now live and ready for you to share with your community!

We had such a powerful conversation about your journey, the importance of service, and how spotlighting your shadow can lead to incredible opportunities. I truly believe our audience will be deeply inspired.

You can access the full episode here:
[EPISODE_URL]

We've prepared some social media assets to make sharing easy. You can find them [LINK_TO_ASSETS].

Thank you again for being such an amazing guest. It was an honor to have you!

Best,
Junaid Ahmed

Your Hacks & Hobbies Episode is LIVE! 🎙️

Hi Joshua,

Hope you're having a great week!

Just wanted to gently remind you that your episode of Hacks & Hobbies, 'The Power of Radical Truth,' is available to share. We've seen a fantastic response so far, and I know your community would love to hear your insights on overcoming adversity and building a life of service and impact.

Here's the link again:
[EPISODE_URL]

And don't forget to check out the sharing assets we sent over in the last email!

Looking forward to staying connected.

Warmly,
Junaid Ahmed

Share Your Story: Your Hacks & Hobbies Episode Awaits!

Hi Joshua,

This is a final friendly reminder about your Hacks & Hobbies episode, 'The Power of Radical Truth,' which is live and available for you and your audience to enjoy.

We've heard from many listeners who were deeply moved by your story of resilience, service, and the power of embracing one's truth. It's been a privilege to share this conversation.

If you haven't had a chance to share it yet, you can find the direct link here:
[EPISODE_URL]

Thank you once more for making this episode so special. I truly appreciate you and look forward to any future collaborations!

All the best,
Junaid Ahmed

Final Reminder: Your Hacks & Hobbies Episode Features Your Powerful Story!

Are your past mistakes holding you back? Do you believe you need to be in a major city to make it in media? Joshua T. Berglan, 'The World's Mayor,' joins Junaid Ahmed to shatter these myths. Discover how exposing your 'shadow' can be your greatest asset and how genuine service opens doors to Hollywood, the Emmys, and beyond. Learn why true GIVERS win in the long run and how you can leverage your unique story, no matter your location or background, to build influence and opportunity. RSVP now to join this candid conversation and unlock the power of your truth!

Live on LinkedIn Audio: The Power of Radical Truth with Joshua Berglan

You think your secrets keep you safe, but Joshua Berglan says they are actually poisoning your potential. Junaid Ahmed sits down with The World's Mayor, Joshua T. Berglan, on Hacks & Hobbies to reveal the incredible power of radical truth.

Joshua shares his journey from homelessness, addiction, and jail to becoming a globally recognized brand designer and talk show host. Discover how he deliberately 'put a spotlight on his shadow,' turning past struggles into a protective shield and a gateway to unprecedented opportunities.

We explore:
► How genuine service grants access to exclusive circles like the Emmys, Oscars, and major film sets.
► Why the 'Geography Myth' (needing to be in LA/NY) is busted, with booming opportunities in various cities.
► The power of a positive attitude and willingness to help, even as an extra, leading to significant roles.
► Why 'nice guys' (givers) truly win in the long run, and how patience and consistency in service create a powerful harvest.
► How to leverage your unique story, no matter your background, to build influence and turn truth into your superpower.

If you're ready to stop hiding and start building a legacy based on truth, this episode is your blueprint.

🔴 Subscribe for more inspiring stories: [YOUTUBE_CHANNEL_URL]

#HacksAndHobbies #JoshuaBerglan #RadicalTruth #ServantLeadership #MediaProduction #PersonalBranding #OvercomingTrauma #FaithInBusiness #JunaidAhmed #WorldMayor

Joshua Berglan: How Exposing Your Shadow UNLOCKS Hollywood & Success | Hacks & Hobbies

I get to speak with Joshua T. Berglan. He's a world's mayor, host of gratitude unfiltered, a talk show ministry, brand designer producer and MC. Well, the world's mare is driven to be the voice for the voiceless and empower others to live with Truth. 



Enjoy the episode

Our Guest

Joshua T. Berglan

 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/livemanaworldwide



 Website: joshuatberglan.com



 Twitter: alohaboca




Hacks to take away


 The voice for the voiceless and empower others to live with the truth.


  Living everything out loud living life in real-time.


  How God works in his life.


  Things that we overcome are like keys


  Providing value for people discovering a need, and finding a way to provide that and the world's Mayor nickname that came from being in service to others. Never looking to sell anything.


  Having that attitude and being out there to push yourself forward.


  You're only limited by your thoughts and the way you're talking about yourself.



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Junaid Ahmed

Hacks and Hobbies

Books & Resources

The Power of Truth: How Joshua Berglan Became the Voice for the Voiceless