I’ve known Mike Carlone for close to 20 years. He’s a Jersey guy, made of saltwater grit that's born of honesty, not ego.

Mike’s one of the smartest people I know. Discerning. Edgy. Grounded. He oversees client relationships for a money management firm, but titles don’t define him—how he treats people does. He builds trust without fluff, leads with clarity, and tells the truth even when it’s uncomfortable. Especially then.

He’s also honest about his struggle with humanity—and that’s part of what makes him magnetic. His pursuit of excellence touches every area of his life, but somehow, he stays rooted. Steady. Present. And that inspires me.

This conversation is about what it means to show up real in a world that rewards the fake. Let’s get into it.

Forging His Own Fringe: Alex Roland’s Way

When Alex Roland first reached out to me, I thought he might be another stressed-out college student fulfilling a class requirement. What I got was entirely different.

Alex has faced real challenges, and he doesn’t shy away from the disappointments. But what sets him apart isn’t just resilience—it’s his willingness to learn, adapt, and embrace the messy, human side of finance. As he steps into his career, I have no doubt he’ll push the boundaries of traditional financial planning.

This episode isn’t just about Alex’s journey; it’s a reminder that the future of finance isn’t found in textbooks or boardrooms—it’s shaped by those willing to challenge the norm of what financial success really looks like.

So, meet Alex Roland.

In Episode 1 of Being James Doe, we step into the mind of James Doe—a rap artist, creative manager, and a relentless advocate for entrepreneurial growth. James shares his unorthodox journey from the edge of the industry to its beating heart, where artistry aligns with purpose and every move is designed to amplify results. Together, we unpack his philosophy of eliminating bottlenecks to focus solely on what propels growth, proving that success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters. This isn’t just finance; it’s forward motion.