Friday, July 10, 2026

DARIUS ROSS – THE ROLL UP KINGPIN SHARES EXIT STRATEGIES FOR SMALL COMPANIES

 


In a world where adversity can either break or build, Darius Ross stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Known as "The Roll Up Kingpin" for his expertise in smaller acquisitions, Darius Ross is a renowned motivational speaker, author, and life coach. He motivates business professionals, investors, young men, divorcees and many readers to overcome obstacles and create lasting financial legacies.

Darius Ross’s journey began amid hardship in Auburn Park, Chicago. Following a devastating fire that left him unhoused, as well as the loss of countless friends due to rampant gang violence, Darius refused to surrender to adversity. Instead, he channeled his struggles into motivation, relentlessly pursuing education and personal growth. His unyielding tenacity led him to achieving entrepreneurial success and inspiring others with his books and motivational speeches. His resilience transformed his life and established a foundation for national impact, proving that anyone can rise above their circumstances.

Drawing from his extensive experience in business acquisitions and entrepreneurship, Darius Ross offers the following five key suggestions for small companies looking to develop a successful exit strategy:

·      Start Planning Early - Develop your exit plan well in advance. Early preparation allows you to maximize company value, address potential pitfalls, and position your business for a smooth transition.

·      Understand Your Value -Conduct a realistic assessment of your company’s strengths, market position, and unique assets. Knowing your true value helps you negotiate effectively and attract the right buyers.

·      Build a Strong Team -Ensure your company operates efficiently without you at the helm. A strong management team adds value and reassures buyers that the business will thrive post-acquisition.

·      Maintain Clean Financials: Keep accurate and transparent financial records. Buyers are attracted to companies with clear, well-documented financial histories, which facilitate easier due diligence and valuation. Avoid aggressive tax avoidance or overly creative tax strategies, as these can deter buyers and complicate the sales process.

·      Creative Financing Options and Strategies: Explore innovative financing structures that benefit both you and the buyer, ensuring a smooth exit with maximum profit and future potential. Consider options such as seller financing, earn-outs, deferred payments, or equity rollovers to make the deal more attractive and flexible for all parties involved.

·      Seek Professional Guidance - Engage with advisors experienced in mergers and acquisitions. Legal, financial, and business experts can help you navigate the complexities of exiting, ensuring you secure the best possible outcome




Darius Ross’s legacy is built on his dedication to helping others create lasting financial legacies. His suggestions reflect a deep understanding of both the challenges and opportunities facing small business owners. By following these strategies, entrepreneurs can position themselves for successful exits, unlocking new possibilities for growth and prosperity.

Today, Darius, who resides in New York City and Maine, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to empowering others and his tireless focus on creating financial legacies for regular folks that will transform their lives. Ross has authored six books, including Mastering The TPS BluePrint: Transforming Trauma into Triumph and Leadership DNA: Building a Thriving Business Culture. His latest venture, Dating at 50, which chronicles his experiences with love and romance as an older man, is expected to be released soon. He has successfully launched ventures across various industries and advises high-net-worth clients, specializing in finding opportunities in challenges. Through coaching, mentoring, and his writing—including his Forbes blog and podcasts—Ross shares insights on transformation, wealth creation, and resilience. He focuses on multifamily real estate, supports innovative startups as an angel investor, and inspires audiences worldwide to confront challenges and strive for greatness.

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Learn more about Darius Ross in his interview here or look for all his books on Amazon.

Surprise Chest Unclaimed Mail - Camera & MORE BRAS

 Today’s unclaimed mail haul came from a new company called Surprise Chest, and it showed up just in time for my mom Maryann’s birthday. Naturally, she insisted on opening the first three packages herself because at this point she’s basically the queen of return‑mail content.

The first box kicked things off with a knock‑off GoPro. Next, she got a sign that read, "Please Keep Pets off Landscaping.

And then came the grand finale: even more bras, this time in 5XL. Both of us combined wouldn’t fit into those things! Stay tuned for our next batch of treasure from Surprise Chest!


Thursday, July 9, 2026

Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box — Stylin Boxes Unboxing

If you’re a fan of cult classics, the Rocky Horror Picture Show Mystery Box from Stylin Boxes is a total treat. Stylin Boxes is known for curating fandom‑themed mystery boxes packed with officially licensed merch, artwork, collectibles, and fun surprises you never see coming. They specialize in pop‑culture deep cuts including movies, TV, comics, gaming .

I filmed a full unboxing, so definitely check out the Rocky Horror video to see my reactions in real time, but here’s a closer look at everything inside this gloriously theatrical box.


What Was Inside the Rocky Horror Mystery Box

The box was packed with bold, colorful, over‑the‑top goodies, exactly what you’d expect from anything Rocky Horror themed. In the photo, you’ll spot:

  • A large Rocky Horror Show poster with that iconic shocked face and dripping yellow lettering

  • A sheet of character stickers featuring Frank‑N‑Furter, Janet, Rocky, and the rest of the cast

  • A DVD/Blu‑ray case notebook with classic Rocky Horror artwork

  • A bright red Rocky Horror mug

  • A circular print featuring The Criminologist

  • A framed “Don’t Dream It, Be It!” art print

  • A handful of pins and keychains perfect for collectors



 Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7

If you love Rocky Horror as much as I do, you might also enjoy my book Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7, which was directly inspired by the wild, irreverent energy of Rocky Horror. It’s packed with the same blend of camp, chaos, and dark theatrical fun — just with my own twist. You can explore more about it here: Horrified, Dark Musicals Book 7.


Watch the Unboxing 

To see the full breakdown and all the goodies up close, watch my Rocky Horror unboxing, complete with me dressed as Columbia. And if you missed it, make sure to check out my previous video on the Labyrinth mystery box, another fantastic Stylin Boxes adventure.



@authorlauradeluca Rocky Horror Mystery Box 📦 from StylinBoxes #mysteryboxes #unboxing #unboxingvideo #rockyhorrorpictureshow #fyp ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Phantom eBook is FREE to Celebrate the Release of the Audiobook!

The Phantom was a musical phenomenon that Rebecca had always found enchanting. She had no idea that her life was about to mirror the play that was her obsession. When her high school drama club chooses "Phantom" as their annual production, Rebecca finds herself in the middle of an unlikely love triangle and the target of a sadistic stalker who uses the lines from the play as their calling card. Rebecca lands the lead role of Christine, the opera diva, and like her character, she is torn between her two co-stars-Tom the surfer and basketball star who plays the lovable hero, and Justyn, the strangely appealing Goth who is more than realistic in the role of the tortured artist. Almost immediately after casting, strange things start to happen both on and off the stage. Curtains fall. Mirrors are shattered. People are hurt in true phantom style. They all seem like accidents until Rebecca receives notes and phone calls that hint at something more sinister. Is Justyn bringing to life the twisted character of the phantom? Or in real life are the roles of the hero and the villain reversed? Rebecca doesn't know who to trust, but she knows she's running out of time as she gets closer and closer to opening night. Only when the mask is stripped away, will the twenty-first century phantom finally be revealed.

Get your free copy of Phantom on Amazon. Find the audiobook on Amazon or Audible.


Celebrate Summer with Hi Mountain Seasonings' Western Grill Bundle

 


About Hi Mountain Seasonings

Hi Mountain Seasonings is a Wyoming‑based company known for crafting high‑quality rubs, marinades, brines, dip mixes, jerky kits, and specialty blends made for outdoor cooking and backyard grilling. Their products are designed to help home cooks elevate everyday meals with bold, western‑inspired flavor. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd, smoking ribs all afternoon, or experimenting with new recipes, Hi Mountain Seasonings offers blends that make it easy to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable.



My Unboxing Experience

For the Fourth of July, I unboxed the Western Grill Bundle, and it felt like opening a treasure chest of flavor. The bundle includes six of their customer‑favorite seasonings and rubs: Cajun Campfire Seasoning, Original Burger Seasoning, Garlic Pepper Rub, Rib Rub, Alaskan Salmon Seasoning, and Zesty Western Gourmet Burger Seasoning.

I was excited to try them out at our holiday barbecue. Each blend smelled incredible right out of the bottle, and the variety meant we could season everything from burgers to ribs to fish without repeating a single flavor profile. Check out the video below to watch the full unboxing and see my first impressions.

@authorlauradeluca Hi Mountain Seasonings Unboxing! #seasoning #barbeque #unboxingvideo #4thofJuly ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca


My Full Review

We put every seasoning to the test at our Fourth of July cookout, and each one brought something special to the table.

  • Cajun Campfire Seasoning — I don't do spicy, but my stepfather used this on chicken and grilled veggies, and it added the perfect bold, smoky kick. Not too spicy, just enough heat to make everything pop.

  • Original Burger Seasoning — This one became an instant favorite. It made our burgers juicy, savory, and perfectly seasoned without overpowering the meat.



  • Garlic Pepper Rub — We tried this on steaks, and it gave them that classic steakhouse flavor — garlicky, peppery, and delicious.

  • Rib Rub — We used this on a rack of ribs, and it delivered exactly what you want: deep, rich, championship‑style flavor that caramelized beautifully on the grill.

  • Alaskan Salmon Seasoning — This was perfect on fresh fish. It added brightness and depth without masking the natural flavor.

  • Zesty Western Gourmet Burger Seasoning — We used this on a second batch of burgers, and it gave them a tangy, bold twist that everyone loved.

Every seasoning was easy to use, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to work on multiple dishes. The bundle made our Fourth of July spread taste like a full‑blown cookout feast. No guesswork, no complicated recipes, just great seasoning doing its job.


Final Thoughts

Hi Mountain Seasonings made our Fourth of July meal unforgettable, and their Western Grill Bundle is perfect for any summer barbecue. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just cooking for your family, these blends make it easy to serve food that tastes amazing. Stock up before Labor Day so you’re ready for every cookout, camping trip, and backyard dinner coming your way.

Connect with High Mountain Seasonings.

Website   Facebook   YouTube 



Monday, July 6, 2026

Potion & Twig Diffusers Review & Giveaway

 


About Potion & Twig

Potion & Twig is a company built by people who care about scent, wellness, and creating a cozy home environment. They specialize in modern, non‑toxic diffusers and thoughtfully crafted fragrances designed to elevate your space without overwhelming it. Their products lean into clean ingredients, sleek design, and smart technology, making them perfect for anyone who wants their home to smell amazing without the hassle of traditional candles or chemical‑heavy sprays.


My Unboxing Experience

I recently unboxed the Sienna Plug‑In Cold Air Diffuser, and I was so excited to try it out. The Sienna came with three scents: Waterfall, Retreat, and Luxe Garden, all beautifully packaged and ready to test. The whole setup felt high‑end and gift‑worthy, and I couldn’t wait to plug it in and see how it performed. Check out the video below to watch the full unboxing and hear my first impressions.

@authorlauradeluca Potion & Twig Diffuser Unboxing! #HomeDecor #essentialoils #unboxingvideo ♬ original sound - Laura Deluca


My Full Review

Once I started using the Sienna diffuser, I was surprised by how simple the whole process was. You just add your fragrance oil to the reservoir, plug it in, and you’re ready to go. There is oil involved, but the design makes it easy to pour and even easier to close securely. Nothing messy or complicated.

I was worried about the app since I’m technologically challenged, but it turned out to be incredibly user‑friendly. It synced right away and let me control the scent strength, set schedules, and adjust how much fragrance is released throughout the day. If you’ve ever been intimidated by smart home gadgets, this one is beginner‑friendly, and the scents are amazing!

  • Waterfall is crisp and refreshing, like stepping into a cool breeze.

  • Retreat feels calming and spa‑like — perfect for winding down.

  • Luxe Garden is lush, floral, and elegant without being overpowering.

A little truly goes a long way. I was shocked that just one diffuser filled my entire 800‑square‑foot house with a fresh, clean scent. It wasn’t too strong, it wasn’t artificial, just a perfect, balanced fragrance that made the whole space feel brighter and more inviting.

Other things I loved:

  • The oils last a long time because the diffuser uses them efficiently.

  • The unit itself is sleek and modern, blending right into your décor.

  • You can switch scents easily depending on your mood.

If you want to try out a diffuser for yourself, be sure to visit there website and see all they have to offer.

Connect with Potion and Twig

Website        TikTok      Facebook    Instagram 

The Giveaway


Potion & Twig is giving one of my readers their very own diffuser! One lucky winner will receive the Spire Cold Air Diffuser Bundle, which includes a full‑size diffuser and three premium scents;  a complete starter set valued at  $225. To enter,  fill in the Giveaway Tools form below. This giveaway will end on 7/31/26 . The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to reply. Open to the US only!


Sunday, July 5, 2026

Dark Musicals Fan Art Spotlight


Every once in a while, a reader connects with a book series in a way that becomes part of its history. For the Dark Musicals Series, that reader is Stephanie Piro, one of the cartoonists behind Six Chicks and the creator of the book review blog The Militant Recommender. Stephanie is a lifelong Phantom of the Opera fan, and years ago she stumbled across Phantom, Book 1 of my series. She’s followed the books ever since, and for each installment she’s drawn a sketch of one of her favorite scenes.




I loved her artwork so much that I ended up writing her into the Dark Musicals world. The fictional Stephanie Piro appears in Haunted, where she plays a soap opera star who joins the cast of the Woman in White movie.

With the release of Phantom on audio, it felt like the perfect time to revisit Stephanie’s beautiful illustrations. Check out the slideshow below to see her interpretations of some of the most iconic moments in the series.

Be sure to visit Stephanie on her blog, The Militant Recommender, and explore more of her stunning artwork on the Six Chicks Facebook page.

Grab a copy of the Phantom audio book on Amazon or Audible

@authorlauradeluca Some of my favorite fan art of the Dark Musicals series by Stephanie from Six Chix! #amreading #fanart #cartoons #fyp #booktok ♬ The Incident - Maebi